You Don't Need To Know All The Answers

Some days you feel like you’ve got it together.

Your outfit hits just right, your hair falls in place like the universe conspired to make it behave, and for once, the world feels like it’s listening.

Other days? You stare at your reflection and wonder, “Is this really me?” The mirror feels unkind. Your skin duller, your eyes tired. You pick at flaws that no one else notices, and suddenly the day feels heavier.

You are human.

It’s okay to feel ugly some days, and cute the next. You’re not inconsistent—you’re alive.

We live in an age that demands brand consistency, even in our personalities. Social media has conditioned us to believe we should always know what we want, always radiate confidence, always glow. But here’s the quiet truth no one posts about: It’s okay to change your mind about the things you once chased with fire. That job, that person, that dream version of yourself. Sometimes, when you arrive where you thought you’d find joy, you discover a kind of emptiness instead.

That’s not failure. That’s evolution.

You may feel lonely even in a room full of laughter. You scroll through your phone looking for something—but you’re not sure what. You smile at stories, heart a few reels, but your spirit is still somewhere else. You wonder, "What’s wrong with me?"

Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

Loneliness isn’t always about being alone. Sometimes it’s about not being understood, even when surrounded.

You might feel lost when your purpose doesn’t look like what you imagined. Maybe you spent years chasing something only to realize it doesn’t fit the way it once did. And now you’re stuck in the gap between what you’ve outgrown and what hasn’t found you yet.

But the gap is where growth lives.

It’s the quiet valley between mountains. It’s where you soften, and wonder, and learn how to sit with yourself. It’s uncomfortable, yes. But necessary.

You are not a brand. You are not an algorithm. You are not a flawless stream of curated thoughts and aesthetically pleasing routines.

You are a person.

You get to feel beautiful on Monday and unsure of yourself by Thursday. You get to change your mind, lose your way, find it again, and be uncertain the whole time.

And that doesn’t make you broken.

That makes you real.

So next time you feel out of place in your own life, remember: even the moon has phases. Even the ocean rises and recedes. And you—like them—are allowed to be different every day.

Because you are human. And that’s the whole point.

-QTPodcast

Sa Gitna ng aking Pagkabalisa

 

In the welter of my own concerns,

I built a fortress — brick by worry,

roofed with late-night prayers

and ceilings that echoed only my voice.

I wore my struggle like a badge,

thinking mine was the only storm.

But the world — quiet,

kept weeping beside me

and I didn't even hear it.

The woman on the jeep beside me?

Nagmamadali hindi dahil late —

kundi may tatlong anak na walang gatas.

The tricycle driver?

Nakangiti, oo — pero may notice na pala sa bahay.

And me?

Too busy counting my own cracks

to notice someone else breaking.

Forgive me.

I forgot that pain doesn’t compete —

it coexists.

That everyone is fighting their own unseen war.

That someone’s silence

might be louder than my complaint.

So today, I slow down.

Not because I’m cured —

but because maybe, just maybe,

someone else

needs their pain

seen, too.

--billymac © 2025

One Day on the Train...

 

The sky wore dusk like a secret,
heavy with smoke exhaled by metal beasts inching through the city’s veins.
I held out my palm—
coins clinking,
one peso too few
for a ride that might've led me home.

Then—
a smile.
Yours.
Or was it just the memory of it?
Soft.
Brief.
Uninvited, but welcome.
It hovered in the air like incense in an old chapel,
fading slow,
but refusing to leave.

And there—
in the rattle of the rails,
the hush between stations,
I saw you again.

Not in flesh.
But in the space where dreams and strangers
sometimes wear the same face.

Some moments arrive like ghosts,
and leave like poetry.

--billymac © 2025

Bitin Ka Pa? SB19’s “Simula at Wakas” Is More Than a Concert — It’s a Cultural Reset

(from the POV of a freshly converted A'TIN) 

Bitin kaba?

Isang linggo na ang lumipas mula nung pumutok ang Philippine Arena sa sigawan, iyakan, at sayawan. Pero sa puso ng maraming A’TIN, parang kahapon lang ang lahat.

Hindi lang ito basta concert.

Para itong panaginip na hindi mo gustong matapos. Isang pambihirang pagsasama ng talento, kultura, at pagmamalaki. At kahit tapos na ang opening ng SB19’s Simula at Wakas World Tour, tayong lahat—oo, pati ikaw na ilang beses nang na-replay ang fancams—ay parang tinamaan ng magic bug.

Bakit nga ba?

1. Ang Simula: From Practice Room to Global Stage

Hindi overnight success ang SB19. Mula sa matinding training under ShowBT Philippines hanggang sa iconic “Go Up” dance practice na nag-viral noong 2019, pinatunayan nilang kaya ng Pinoy makipagsabayan sa global stage—at hindi kailangan kopyahin ang iba. Kaya kung may nagsasabi pa rin sa’yo na “K-pop copycat” sila, ipanood mo nalang ‘yung 5-minute performance nila sa Wish Bus. Walang halong hype—talent lang talaga.

2. MAHALIMA, Bias, Wreckers at Iba Pa: Fan Culture na May Puso

Kung A’TIN ka, alam mong hindi lang music ang inaalok ng SB19. May sariling language ang fandom—mula sa salitang “MAHALIMA” (pinagsamang "mahal" at "lima") hanggang sa kilig sa bias at pagkalito sa bias wrecker. May pa-sticker, may fan chants, may fan-made MV cuts—lahat para lang mas mailapit ang fans sa bawat himig at hakbang ng grupo.

Ito yung fandom na may sariling mundo, pero bukas sa lahat. At ang pinakamasarap sa lahat? Walang gatekeeping. Kumbaga, kahit bago ka pa lang, “kasama ka na.”

3. P-Pop Na May Laman: Local Beats, Global Feels

P-Pop is no longer just a genre—it's a movement. Sa bawat kanta ng SB19 tulad ng “Dungka!”, mararamdaman mo ang amoy ng kalsada, ang tunog ng tambay, at ang ugat ng pagka-Pinoy. Hindi lang ito about being “inspired by K-pop.” Ito’y pagsasalin ng sariling kwento sa musika. Kaya kung napapansin mong may K-pop aura pero may tadyang ng Tondo o Taguig, hindi ka nagkakamali.

4. Beyond Charts: Ambassadors of Modern Filipino Identity

SB19 topped Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales multiple times, pero ang mas importante—dala nila ang boses ng Pinoy sa world stage. Sila ang una, pero hindi sila dapat maging huli. Dahil bawat tagumpay nila ay paalala na pwede pala. Pwede pala tayo.

5. Simula at Wakas: Trilogy ng Tagumpay

From “Pagsibol” to “Pagtatag!” at ngayong “Simula at Wakas,” SB19’s discography is like a diary of growth. Self-written, self-managed, self-made. Under their own label, 1Z Entertainment, hawak nila ang direksyon ng kanilang art—isang bagay na bihirang makamit kahit ng mainstream acts.

6. Bakit Tayo Tumatambay Dito?

• Dahil ang fandom nila ay hindi lang hype—it’s healing.

• Dahil sa kanila, may kwento ang bawat “NO” na nalampasan nila.

• Dahil kung kaya nilang umangat mula sa ghosting at rejection, bakit hindi tayo?

  
  

7. Para Sa Lahat: Fandom Na Hindi Kailangan ng Prerequisite

Hindi mo kailangang alam ang birthdate ni Stell o favorite food ni Pablo para matawag na fan. Kung naluha ka sa “MAPA,” napasigaw sa “GENTO,” o napangiti sa bagong “Liham,” you’re part of the story. Dahil ang fandom na ito, hindi elitista. Masaya kami sa bawat bagong ka-ride or die.

—

Bakit nga ba hindi pa rin tayo maka-get over? Simple lang.

Kasi hindi lang sila artista—sila ay repleksyon ng bawat Pilipino na lumalaban para sa pangarap. Sila ang paalala na sa bawat “Simula,” may “Wakas,” pero sa bawat “Wakas,” may bagong Simula.

Kung natamaan ka rin ng magic bug ng SB19, share mo naman ang bias mo o favorite SB19 moment mo sa comments. Tayo-tayo na rin ang magkwento ng success story na ito.

#SB19SimulaAtWakas #ATINMagic #PPopRise #SB19WorldTour #MahalimaForever #PinoyPride

-QTPodcast

Review: OpenRun Pro2 (Shokz) Wireless Headset

(note: this review of the OpenRun Pro2 is based on a 5-month use of the device (quite extensive)

As a native airPods Pro user since December 2020 -- nothing comes close to the user-friendliness of airPods from Apple. We made a separate article about Airpods Pro. - and it's worth reading if you're looking from a fresh perspective of a not-so-die-hard-fan of the Apple ecosystem (just kidding on the die-hard fan).

Fast forward to 2024 - December, a special someone gifted us an OpenRun Pro2 (visit the unboxing video from our FB page if you want to see the visuals). Roughly 5 months of use - as our daily driver for work calls, and inconsistent runs, jogs, or walks - we would say the sweet-black-wireless-headset lived-up to its promise.

trivia: we were never aware that there's an OpenRun Pro2 - mainly used for athletes in the field of running and sports, not until our special person explained in detail that it's been in the market for quite a while.

Let's deep-dive on its pros and cons, by rating these several metrics or factors from the standpoint of a consumer like us (who are into health & fitness use of tech gadgets + as a corporate individual working 9-to-5):

1. User-friendliness - to scope this meter, let's talk about the intuitive use of the gadget without having to read the manual and the fine-print. Plus, the usability factor - is it seamless to use within different platforms? Is it annoying? Is there a feature that we wish it could've been improved more, or they could just have simply remove it because it's irritating and not user-friendly? Let's get on.

Connectivity:

iPhone/Macbook environment - easy peasy, yes! it's compatible to Apple devices - and yes, easy to connect via bluetooth toggle and pairing. Once it's paired - it gets automatically detected, you need not to set-up again the next time you use it on your device. It's limited to 3 devices (mixed of apple or non-apple device) for the auto-detect to work; if you have a 4th device, you have to switch off the "pairing" from one of the 3 devices in its Shokz app (downloadable via App Store or PlayStore) in order for the 4th device to be seamless in doing auto-detect feature.

Windows environment - same like Apple, it's also magic! Remember we mentioned that we use this wireless headset during workhours -- it's connected to our company laptop, and it just worked! Once the OpenRun Pro2 is ON, our work laptop auto-detects it and when we are doing calls via MS Teams, it just blends or pops up by default as my audio input/output. (Later, we'll talk about noise cancellation in "sound quality").

Android environment - no comment. (Hahahaha! we rarely use Android) Forgive us, Android friends pero wala po kaming masamang tinapay sa inyo - p e a c e!

Charging:

easy as 1, 2, 3! USB Type C - the package comes with an end-to-end USB Type C cable, you must have at least 25-watt usb head charger to charge the device. We don't know if the OpenRun Pro2 has this feature ala-style-of-Airpods where even for higher wattages of chargers - it can regulate its input. It seemed like it does -- because I tried charging it sometimes using the big brick charger of MacBook Pro because for the life of us, we often forget our normal iPhone Charger (45watts), so far it's still working! (To be safe - - please charge it with the applicable wattage and not the 65watts or more charger head).

Operability:

Like how intuitive can you find the volume triggers, lower/higher? Yes - that's also a quickie, I didn't read the how-to and our fingers just ran through the knobs and buttons - Presto! we got it running how to turn ON and OFF (long press), and increase/decrease the sound volume is also a breeze. What we love when you turn on and off the device - there's an audio prompt telling you if it's low, medium or high in battery! Sweet, right? 

If you're the tinker-belle type re equalizers and sound settings - you can manage it in the app (Shokz App). 

 

Longevity (How long can It last before you charge again):

This is our favorite feature of this rocka-babe, it just seems to not run out of juice! we shared earlier that we use this for work and fitness (like 9 to 11 hours work turned-on, plus, 1-2 hours workouts or walks or run) - and it just doesn't die. At the end of the day, it just tells -medium battery - so we usually re-charge it every 2-3 days.

And to be honest, we rarely use the airPods any longer! Nyahahaha! We got a new fave!

2. Sound Quality - for us, sound quality is relative. But let's define it based on layman's standards.

Loud Enough to deafen when volume is maxed?:

Nadah! This is the beauty of OpenRun Pro2, it won't hurt your eardrum and hearing health. (welp is there such as thing as hearing health? - yessir there is! we'll cover that in the future). Primarily because (according to their website) it's a bone-conduction technology. You can click the link later to know more about bc tech, but to give you an idea - buds are not plugged in to your earlobes' holes (much so to the usual earphones or headsets where the sound goes directly to your earholes which according to science - eventually that'll cost you hearing loss for excessive usage. Since it's the opposite for OpenRun Pro2, all the more that we are loving this handy gadget!

Lossless Music? Anyone...:

We can attest that listening to music is still good and impressive, but not that great if we are to compare it with airPods. Yes we can still differentiate the bass, treble, and synthesizers but the wow-effect is not there compared to the airPods! About lossless - we feel that it depends on the media.. like Spotify or Apple Music - friends are telling us that lossless in Apple Music is way better than Spotify espcially if it's matched with airPods/Beats/ or the airPods Pro Max.

Noise Cancellation:

Yes - we can vouch for this, that it's perfectly working during noisy background. We constantly spotcheck our team mates during MS Teams Meetings both at office or at home -- they are not hearing any background noise.

Another plus points for Shokz is the capability for us to hear our surroundings because of the bc (bone conduction) technology without losing focus on the music while running or podcast content while jogging/walking even if traffic or horns of passerby vehicles are on the go. The same is true during office meetings - we can feel someone's presence behind the scenes, approaching behind our back or calling us despite the focus in listening to the convo -- this again because of the bc technology.

3. Aesthetics - the wrap-around the head like a back-skull-band is really catchy. Not eye-candy but quite in-tune to fashion. As if you're a detective or spy-on-the-go, we're not downplaying it but it's cool!

Easy to wear?:

Yes - it's like a plug-and-play on the earl-headrest. On the fly in putting it on as well as removal. Overtime, you won't be able to feel you're wearing one. During our adoption stage - like one-week of use, it was kind of hurting a bit, possibly because the band wasn't fully adjusted. Eventually, it was nice-to-wear and there's a feeling of "Oh shoot! I forgot my OpenRun2" whenever you're on the move and psychologically you knew instantly that you aren't wearing one.

 

Necklace Fashion?:

We made that up! Hahaha, someone, a stranger commented while we were waling the pavements of Vermosa - "what is that on your neck?". We politely answered - "Oh, it's a neck massager with earphones! hahaha". And thus, a new friend gained.

4. Overall Feels - we would say, we highly recommend it! Whether your main purpose is for sports or training, or even daily driver for work meetings - - go grab one. We believe it cost around 12-14K Php - nevertheless it's worth it.

We would just throw it in our backpack -- and yet it's not easily broken, or at least it hasn't been damaged as of yet. The water resistant flavor is there but ofcourse - you can't use it for swimming or in the shower. Sometimes we use it when we sleep by adjusting the band on top of our head - still cosy as C!

We are Rating the product as 5 out of 5 stars!

Hope you enjoyed reading and picked-up some tips in this review! rate and give us your comments or experience too about OpenRun Pro2 by Shokz!

 

~billymacdeus' blog 

The Art of Rejection (POV from an Insurance Agent)

Let’s talk about a job where “No” is the most common word you’ll hear.

Not just once a day. Or five times a week. Try hearing it twenty, maybe fifty times—before lunch. This is the everyday rhythm of an insurance agent’s life.

And yet, they show up.

Again.

And again.

With the same pitch. The same heart. And somehow, the same smile.

Pause for a moment. Let that sink in.

Because the average person—most of us, honestly—spend our lives trying to avoid rejection. We curate our posts. Second-guess our messages. We hesitate to speak up in meetings or tell someone how we really feel, just in case they say, “No.”

But insurance agents? They walk straight into that storm.

They knock on digital doors only to be ghosted. They send heartfelt messages and are met with silence. Some get laughed at. Some get blocked. And others are told, “You’re wasting your time,” more times than their paycheck suggests they should even stay.

But they do.

There’s an art to that kind of rejection. And more than that—there’s courage.

It’s easy to joke about them. We’ve all seen the memes. The punchlines. The rolling eyes when someone gets an “insurance agent” friend request.

But let’s be honest: these are people who wake up each morning and do the thing many of us fear most—facing judgment. Facing disinterest. Facing indifference.

And doing it anyway.

Why? Not just for the commission. But because they believe in something. In a product that could change someone’s life. In protection. In peace of mind. In purpose.

We rarely talk about the mental strength it takes to hear "No" a hundred times and still believe in your “Yes.”

We don’t praise that enough.

In a world that glamorizes instant success and curated lifestyles, there’s something raw and real about the quiet, determined hustle of someone selling security in the form of paper and trust. They’re building resilience like muscle. Rejection becomes their gym.

What if we had that kind of grit?

What could we start if we weren’t so afraid to fail?

What dreams could we pitch—again and again—without fear of being ignored?

There’s a quiet lesson in every insurance agent’s story. Not just about selling policies, but about selling yourself—to the world, over and over, without giving up, even when no one seems to buy it.

Maybe, just maybe, that’s where real confidence lives—not in being told “Yes,” but in surviving all the “No’s.”

And still smiling.

--Insurero

NCAP (No Contact Apprehension Policy) at MMDA Philippines

 

NCAP gradually builds discipline.. 

pagsunod…obeying  traffic rules.

NCAP brings “kaayusan”, organization at workflow.

Kaygandang pagmasdan ang larawan — gives us goosebumps na kaya naman palang sumunod ang Pinoy. 

NCAP isn’t panghuli, it’s pang-disiplina.

Walang huli kung walang violator.

Let’s drive smarter, not angrier..

Make the roads safer for us and our kids.

Thank you MMDA for your tireless efforts in executing processes that instill discipline and mindfulness. 

To fellow Filos— let’s support this initiative to tame our basic instinct na “bahala na si batman”, “wala akong pake” into a behavior that is something that we can be proud of - “may pagmamalasakit sa kapwa motorista”, “may respeto”, at higit sa lahat - “may disiplina”. 

-QT Admin

The Lost Art of Reading: Why Scrolling Isn’t Thinking

 

We live in a world of flickering seconds. A 15-second reel. A 10-second story. A 5-second scroll.

We’re no longer just watching — we’re consuming, fast and thoughtless, like junk food for the mind. And just like a diet of empty calories, this one starves something essential: our ability to reflect, imagine, and analyze. We are losing the very muscle that has built every revolution, every philosophy, every moment of profound change in human history — the habit of deep reading.

In 2025, over 91% of global internet users between 16 to 34 years old consume video-based content daily. Most of them do not watch past the 60-second mark. Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts — they weren’t built to help us think. They were built to keep us distracted. And they are succeeding.

We no longer ask questions like “Why did this happen?” or “What are the implications?” We only ask: “What’s next?”

The Cognitive Cost of the Scroll

Scientists have a term for this: "cognitive impatience." In a 2021 Stanford University study, students who frequently consumed short-form content struggled significantly with comprehension tests and critical thinking exercises compared to peers who read long-form articles or essays daily.

Dr. Maryanne Wolf, a cognitive neuroscientist and author of Reader, Come Home, calls this the "shallowing" of our thinking. “When we read deeply, we activate empathy, inference, reflection — all the processes that make us human thinkers,” she says. “Skimming through a video doesn’t build those same circuits.”

Imagine losing the ability to read between the lines — not just in a book, but in life.

Imagination Lives in the Margins

Reading isn’t just about words on a screen. It’s about building a world inside your head. When you read a story, your brain lights up as though you’re living it. A video gives you everything. Reading makes you work for it. And in that process, your imagination — your most personal, powerful tool — begins to stretch and grow.

A generation raised only on short-form video loses that. Not because they lack talent or depth — but because no one reminded them of the value of stillness, of complexity, of sitting with an idea long enough to truly digest it.

When was the last time you read something slowly?

From Consumers to Creators

Here’s the kicker: people who read more, write better. They speak more clearly. They lead more effectively. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or someone finding your voice — reading helps you build it.

Social media doesn’t have to be the enemy. In fact, it can be the spark. What if our feeds were filled not just with faces and filters, but with thoughts? What if instead of dancing to someone else’s soundbite, we started conversations? Shared insights? Asked questions?

It starts with one post. One caption that says, “I read this — and it changed how I see the world.”

Before It's Too Late

There’s a reason tyrants burn books, not phones. Reading is dangerous — it makes people think for themselves. And that’s exactly why we must protect it.

Let this be the generation that reclaims its mind. That scrolls less and reflects more. That values silence over noise, insight over algorithm.

Because in the end, a reel may catch your attention — but only a well-written story can change your life.

So slow down. Pick up an article. Read the long caption. Share a quote that moved you. Post something worth thinking about.

Not for the likes. But for the legacy.

~Mac

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Hope Against Hope

"Pag-asa laban sa pag-asa" ... these words came rushing down memory lane like we were witnessing again the texto of Brother Eraño G. Manalo,  years ago in Lokal ng Tandang Sora, QC. He has quoted the story of Abraham regarding God's promise -- for him to be the father of many nations. But how could Abraham be?, when his wife Sarah is sterile, and he's already a 100-year-old man. In the logic and mindfulness of an ordinary person not accustomed to faith, it can never happen.

Yet, Abraham took it to the next level... he hoped for the promise (of God) to happen against the hope for them (him and Sarah) to have an offspring (later in the future, through their son--Isaac) despite its impossibility from a human standpoint. Abraham used his faith and strong trust with God to realize the promise.

In today's era, where Hope as a virtue is all the more that matters, not only as defacto in character that we have to wield in these trying times, but because it's one of the ingredients as part in treading uncertainties in life. Hope, carries a weight that drives grit and perseverance. 

There’s a kind of hope that makes sense—the kind you feel when you see signs that things are getting better. But then there’s hope against hope. The kind that shows up even when nothing around you is working. No signs. No progress. No validation. Just a quiet belief in your gut that things will somehow, someday, turn around.

And honestly? That’s the kind of hope that changes lives.

We don’t talk about it enough. Life gets heavy. Sometimes you’re showing up every day, doing your best, and it still feels like nothing’s happening. You’re healing from things people never even apologized for. You’re trying to dream big in a world that often feels too loud, too fast, too unfair. But deep inside, there’s a tiny voice that whispers, “Keep going.”

That voice? That’s hope against hope.

“It’s not that I’m unbreakable. I’ve just chosen not to stay broken.”

I remember a time when I was between jobs, trying to keep it all together while pretending on social media that I was “figuring things out.” I wasn’t. I was drowning in self-doubt, watching others land jobs, promotions, opportunities—while I was getting rejection emails and awkward silences. It was tempting to give up.

But a friend said something that stuck: “You don’t need proof to believe. Sometimes, believing comes first.”

And so I kept applying. Kept showing up. Kept hoping. Weeks turned into months. Then one day—boom. A door opened. Not just any door. The right one. And looking back, I’m glad I didn’t stop three feet before the finish line.

Sometimes, we hold on not because it makes sense—but because it’s the only thing we can do.

“Hope isn’t naive. It’s rebellious. In a world that wants you to settle, hope dares you to keep reaching.”

If you’re in a dark season, I see you. You’re not weak for feeling tired. You’re strong for still being here. Holding on. Taking things day by day, breath by breath.

You don’t need to have it all figured out to move forward. You just need enough strength to take the next step. Even if it’s slow. Even if you’re scared. That next step counts.

And for those who’ve made it through—never forget the version of you who kept going when everything said “stop.” You owe that version of yourself everything.

“If you’re still breathing, there’s still time for the tide to turn.”

So let this be your reminder:

Keep sending that resume.

Keep writing that dream.

Keep healing at your own pace.

Keep loving like you haven’t been hurt.

Keep believing in better days—especially when they seem far away.

Because hope isn’t just about waiting. Sometimes, it’s about fighting for a future you can’t see yet.

And when you make it—and you will—you’ll look back and realize that your hope wasn’t foolish. It was faithful.

Keep the faith. Hold the light. Hope anyway, driven by faith and trust.

~Othello

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The Quiet Power of People Who Don’t Need to Prove Anything

You know the type of people who don’t constantly post their wins or seek validation? The ones who walk into a room and don’t demand attention—but somehow, you still feel their presence? That’s a different kind of power. And in a world where so many are loud just to feel seen, there’s something magnetic about people who are grounded in who they are.

They’re not trying to impress anyone, because they don’t need to. They know their value isn’t based on follower counts, job titles, or aesthetic feeds. Their confidence is quiet—but not because they’re unsure. It’s because they’ve done the work to know themselves.

I remember during college, there was this guy in our group project—let’s call him Wally. He wasn’t the loudest, didn’t lead every meeting, didn’t try to outshine anyone. But he was the most consistent. When we had a deadline, he already had things prepared. When someone was struggling, he helped without making them feel small. During our final presentation, the professor praised our work, and Wally just smiled and gave credit to the group. No flex. No ego. Just good work and good energy.

Years later, I ran into Wally—he was doing really well in his career. But the thing that stood out? He was still the same. Still humble, still kind, still lifting others up. And it hit me: the people who are solid within themselves don’t change based on who’s watching.

Another time, I met someone through a networking event—let’s call her Miss Slender. She had the resume that would make most people feel intimidated. Big-name companies. Impressive roles. But instead of making others feel small, she spent the entire night asking people about their passions, sharing advice when asked, and reminding everyone that they didn’t need a fancy title to be worthy. She listened more than she spoke, and when she spoke, it was to empower, not perform.

That kind of self-assurance? It’s rare.

In the age of “look at me,” quiet confidence almost feels rebellious. But it’s also incredibly refreshing. These are the people who will clap for your wins even if they’re still waiting on theirs. They don’t see success as a race—they see it as something we all define for ourselves.

They’re not constantly comparing or competing. They’re too focused on becoming better than who they were yesterday. They know that true confidence isn’t about being the loudest in the room—it’s about knowing you’re enough, even in silence.

So here’s to those who stay kind when no one’s looking. Who lift others up without needing credit. Who don’t need to be center stage to feel valuable.

That energy? That’s what we need more of—in friendships, in workplaces, in life. Because the world doesn’t need more noise. It needs more real.

And maybe, just maybe, being at peace with yourself is the loudest flex of all.

~Othello

relatable on this article, go ahead &

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Top 7 Reasons To Wear A Watch

 

original image from billymacdeus.com
"rainbow at dusk"

A watch is more than just a tool to tell time—it’s a statement, a habit, and sometimes even a subtle life philosophy. Here are the top reasons why wearing a watch still matters, explained in a way you can connect with:

1. Convenient Time Management Tool

Imagine fumbling for your phone in a meeting or at a busy train station. A quick glance at your wrist is faster, more discreet, and often more professional. Watches keep you on track without the distractions of a smartphone. Who hasn’t picked up their phone to check the time and ended up scrolling social media for 20 minutes? A watch solves that problem.

2. Sense of Statement: Style and Personality

A watch isn’t just functional; it’s an accessory that speaks volumes about you. Whether it’s a sleek modern design, a classic leather strap, or a rugged sports model, your choice of watch reflects your personality and taste. It's like wearing a piece of your identity on your wrist—people notice it.

At a dinner party, your watch could be a conversation starter: “Oh, is that vintage? Where did you get it?”

3. Timeless Symbol of Commitment

Wearing a watch shows you value punctuality and respect others’ time. It subtly signals that you’re reliable and organized, traits that resonate in both personal and professional settings. It’s not just about keeping track of minutes—it’s about valuing them.

Showing up on time to a first date or a job interview? A watch is like your quiet accountability partner.

4. Freedom from Phone Dependency

Pulling out your phone to check the time often leads to distractions—notifications, emails, or endless scrolling. A watch lets you focus on the task at hand without being pulled into the digital vortex.

When you're hiking or enjoying a tech-free dinner with friends, your watch keeps you connected to the moment, not the screen.

5. Functional Durability

Unlike smartphones, many watches are built to last and thrive in situations where electronics can’t—like swimming, hiking, or other outdoor activities. Waterproof watches or rugged designs give you reliability in environments where your phone isn’t practical.

Imagine camping in the woods or traveling in a remote area. A durable watch becomes your dependable companion.

6. Emotional and Sentimental Value

A watch often holds memories. It could be a gift for a milestone achievement, a family heirloom passed down generations, or a self-reward for personal success. Watches are carriers of stories, making them uniquely meaningful.

Every glance at that graduation gift or your dad’s vintage timepiece brings back a flood of memories.

7. Mindful Living

A watch helps you reconnect with the flow of time in a tangible way. Unlike the ever-shifting numbers on a digital screen, an analog watch provides a visual representation of passing time, encouraging mindfulness and intentional living.

Watching the hands of your watch move during a quiet moment can be grounding—a reminder that time is precious.

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More Than Just Timekeeping

Wearing a watch is about functionality, style, and values. It’s a small but powerful way to show you care about being present, reliable, and stylish. Whether you’re managing a busy day or cherishing a quiet moment, a watch is a timeless companion.

So the next time you wonder if watches are outdated, remember: they’re not just keeping time—they’re keeping you in tune with life.

~Othello

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Kindness in the Dark

 

I’ve always been drawn to those who carry themselves with quiet confidence—the kind that doesn’t demand attention, but earns respect effortlessly. They move through the world with a grounded sense of who they are, not needing applause or approval to feel whole.

Their strength is unmistakable, yet gentle. Success hasn’t hardened them; if anything, it’s humbled them. They never rise by stepping on others, and they never shrink the room just to feel taller. Instead, they treat everyone—no matter their title or story—with dignity, as if they instinctively know that real greatness isn’t measured by status, but by how we make others feel.

What makes them stand out isn’t just what they’ve accomplished—it’s how they carry it. They listen more than they speak. And when they do speak, it’s with intention—not to impress, but to uplift.

Their presence is a reminder that confidence doesn’t have to be loud, and kindness doesn’t have to be soft. They shine, yes—but never at the expense of someone else’s light. And in a world full of noise, that quiet strength speaks volumes.

~Othello

Cats and Cucumber

When Cucumbers Become Tiny Monsters: Why Cats React Like It's the End of the World

We’ve all seen it. That viral video moment when a cat turns around, spots a cucumber, and launches into the air like a furry ninja fleeing a ghost. It’s hilarious at first glance—cue the slow-mo replay, the dramatic music, and the comment section going wild with “LOL”s and “This is me avoiding responsibilities.”

But pause the laughs for a second. Ever wonder why these innocent veggies turn our chill cats into acrobats?

Let’s break it down—with a sprinkle of science and a lot of heart.

The phenomenon of cats being startled or frightened by cucumbers has become a popular topic on the internet, often showcased in videos where cats jump or run away upon encountering a cucumber placed behind them. While there isn’t a definitive scientific explanation, several theories suggest why this reaction occurs:

1. Surprise Element: Surprise, Feline Edition

Imagine you're sitting on your couch, sipping your coffee, and when you turn around—bam! there's a full-size clown standing silently behind you. No noise, no warning. Just… there.

That’s how cats feel when a cucumber magically appears behind them. They're not scared of the veggie itself—they're scared because they didn't see it coming. Cats rely on their sharp senses to stay safe. When something sneaks into their space, their first instinct? Survive now, ask questions later.

Cats are naturally cautious animals, and they rely on their keen senses to detect potential threats. When a cucumber is placed behind a cat without its knowledge, the sudden appearance of an unfamiliar object can startle them, much like how humans might react if they unexpectedly found something behind them.

2. Snake Mimicry: Cucumber = Budget Snake?

There’s a theory that cucumbers kind of resemble snakes—long, green, sneaky. And snakes? Natural enemies of cats. Their primitive little feline brains might just say, “YIKES. Get out. Now.”

Think of it like how we instinctively avoid spiders, even the tiny ones. Our brains are wired for survival, and cats are no different. That cucumber could be a silent, still predator… or so they think.

Experts believe that the shape and color of a cucumber might resemble that of a snake, a natural predator to cats. This resemblance could trigger an instinctual fear response in cats, causing them to react quickly to what they perceive as a potential threat.

3. Unfamiliar Object:  Stranger Danger: Veggie Version

Your fluffy buddy knows where the food is, where the sun hits the floor, and exactly which shelf is perfect for knocking things off.

So, when a cucumber shows up uninvited? It’s sus. It’s like someone rearranging your furniture while you sleep. You’d probably freak out too, right?

Cats are creatures of habit and are often wary of new and unfamiliar objects in their environment. A cucumber, being an unusual item that they don’t encounter regularly, can cause confusion and anxiety, leading to a startled reaction.

4. Instinctive Flight Response: Feline Fight-or-Flight Mode: Activated

Cats have a strong flight response as a survival mechanism. When confronted with an unexpected object, especially when they are in a relaxed state, their immediate reaction is to flee to ensure their safety.

Here’s the thing—cats don’t do well with surprise drama. If something spooks them while they're munching or minding their own business, their instincts kick in fast: Run first, process later. That sudden jump, sprint, or parkour-level backflip? It’s their version of self-defense

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But Here’s the Truth: It’s Not Just a Joke

Yes, we laugh. Yes, it’s entertaining. But here’s your friendly reminder: intentionally scaring your cat—even for content—isn’t cool.

Behind that startled leap is a little heart that skipped a beat. And if you’ve ever had a panic moment yourself, you know it’s not fun—even when others laugh. Our pets trust us. Let’s not break that trust for a viral clip.

It’s important to note that intentionally scaring cats with cucumbers or any other object can cause them stress and anxiety. While the reactions might be amusing to some, it’s best to ensure that pets feel safe and secure in their environment.

~Othello

Is It Lack of Discipline or Weak Law Enforcement?

 (long read ahead -- 5 to 8 minutes)

We were scrolling through MMDA’s latest post earlier and came across their accident reports. More than 30 incidents were recorded just within their oversight. What was truly disturbing wasn’t just the number—it was the brutal, almost unimaginable effects of these road mishaps. The images were graphic, horrifying, and at the same time, deeply heartbreaking.

It makes you wonder—are these tragedies caused by a lack of discipline among motorists and pedestrians? Or is it more about the weak enforcement of road safety rules? Maybe it’s both. In the Philippines, where “diskarte” often takes priority over following the rules, and where traffic violations sometimes feel more like suggestions than laws, accidents like these seem inevitable. But should they be? How many more lives need to be lost before discipline and proper enforcement finally take the front seat?

Discipline -

is often seen as a restriction—something that limits freedom. But in reality, it is the foundation of a functioning society. When discipline erodes, the consequences are not always immediate, but they are inevitable. The absence of discipline in daily life creates a ripple effect that, over time, can spiral into chaos.

Five Years Without Discipline: The Cracks Begin to Show

Consider the roads of the Philippines, where many motorists disregard traffic rules due to weak enforcement. At first, this may seem like mere inconvenience—more congestion, occasional accidents, frustrated commuters. But five years into this system of neglect, traffic becomes unbearable. People lose hours of their lives stuck in gridlock, businesses suffer from inefficient transport, and accidents rise. What once seemed like minor rule-breaking accumulates into a crisis.

Similarly, in workplaces, employees who are not held accountable for deadlines or performance eventually foster a culture of complacency. A lack of discipline in personal finance means credit card debts pile up. Bad eating habits, unchecked for years, turn into chronic illnesses. The consequences may not appear overnight, but they will arrive.

Ten Years Without Discipline: A Society in Decline

A decade of neglect and a lack of discipline is when the real damage sets in. Roads that were once manageable despite minor traffic violations become death traps. Corruption seeps deeper into institutions because no one enforces accountability. Unfinished projects, mismanaged funds, and broken infrastructure become the norm.

On a personal level, individuals who never cultivated self-control in their spending, health, or work habits find themselves trapped. A person who avoided saving money due to lack of discipline may now face financial ruin. A culture of procrastination in businesses and governance leads to inefficiency and lost opportunities.

Long-Term Effects: A Generation That Knows No Order

Over decades, the effects of undisciplined behavior shape entire generations. When children grow up in societies where traffic rules are ignored, where work ethics are optional, and where accountability is a rarity, they inherit these habits. The result? A culture where cutting corners is normalized, mediocrity is accepted, and progress is stunted.

We see this in countries that struggle with corruption, weak institutions, and underdeveloped infrastructure—not because they lack intelligence or talent, but because they lacked discipline at a systemic level. The same principle applies at an individual scale: people who never developed discipline struggle to maintain jobs, relationships, or personal goals.

Laws (When Rules Exist But No One Follows: The Cost of Weak Governance) - 

Laws are only as good as their enforcement. Rules, no matter how well-written, mean nothing if they are ignored. When governments fail to uphold regulations—whether on the road, in public service, or in business—societies begin to unravel. The effects don’t come all at once, but like a slow leak in a dam, they accumulate until everything collapses.

Five Years of Weak Enforcement: The Cracks Begin to Show

Take our own-- The Philippines, for example. Traffic laws exist. Road safety guidelines are clear. But when enforcement is inconsistent, what happens? Motorists learn that they can get away with reckless driving. Jaywalkers ignore pedestrian lanes. Public transport vehicles stop wherever they please. At first, it just feels like everyday inconvenience—longer commutes, occasional accidents, frustration.

But after five years of this cycle, chaos sets in. Road rage incidents increase. Emergency response teams struggle to navigate traffic. Businesses lose billions due to wasted productivity. More than just inconvenience, weak governance starts affecting daily life on a much larger scale.

Ten Years Without Proper Implementation: A Society in Decline

Fast forward another five years. By now, lawlessness isn’t just tolerated—it’s expected. Bribery becomes the norm in traffic stops. Unregulated construction projects lead to unsafe buildings. Government offices meant to serve the public turn into bureaucratic nightmares where nothing gets done unless palms are greased.

On a personal level, individuals who once believed in playing fair now see dishonesty as a necessary survival tool. People cut corners, not because they want to, but because the system itself rewards those who do. In a decade, weak law enforcement doesn’t just create disorder—it reshapes an entire culture.

The Long-Term Effects: A Nation Held Back

What happens when this cycle continues for generations? Simple: countries fall behind. Compare nations with strict law enforcement to those without it, and the gap is clear. Cities with disciplined road systems move faster. Businesses thrive where contracts are upheld. Societies where laws are respected develop trust, making progress smoother.

Meanwhile, in places where rules are optional, investors pull out, professionals migrate elsewhere, and institutions crumble under corruption. What started as simple inefficiencies turn into permanent setbacks. The worst part? People begin to believe that this is just “how things are"

The Lesson: Discipline Without Enforcement is Useless

Some argue that the problem is a lack of discipline among citizens. But the truth is, discipline is a byproduct of strong governance. When people see that laws are strictly enforced, they follow them. When they see that breaking the rules has no real consequence, they take their chances.

The challenge isn’t just about writing better laws—it’s about making sure they’re followed. Without action, rules are just words on paper. Without accountability, societies don’t just stay the same; they decline. The choice is simple: enforce, or collapse.

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If you're reading this—whether you're an aspiring lawmaker, a public servant in your barangay, town, city, or even the nation, or maybe just a student dreaming of a better future—please, be the change we need. Start building a culture where discipline is second nature and strong governance is not just a promise, but a reality.

We’ve seen what happens when rules are ignored and enforcement is weak—traffic chaos, corruption, inefficiency, and missed opportunities. We don’t have to accept this as ‘normal.’ Change starts with individuals who choose to do what’s right, even when no one is watching. Be that person. Lead by example. Demand better. Because real progress isn’t just about making laws—it’s about making them work.

Us, the citizens must work together let's imbibe the culture of discipline and mindfulness.

~ Othello