Why Am I More Inlove Now, than 30 Years Ago?

Why am I more in love now, than 30 years ago?

 

Okay so this may seem like a silly question, but I'm approaching 30 years being married and I am wondering why these days I am way more in love than I was when we got married, exponentially more so.  I will see her face amongst others when at a party and all I want to do is walk over and give her a kiss, and sometimes I do.   I'm finding her way more attractive now than when we got married.  She's always had a great figure and been a bit of a hottie, but I'm just way more attracted to and in love now than I think I was when we first got married.

 

Yes I was in love when we got married, but these days it just seems to be that I'm infatuated with her.  Sex nowadays is awesome, not a reason for me to cum, but much more about the intimacy, the touch, the embrace and I focus way more on her pleasure than I did 30 years ago.  

 

But this is more than sex - I will walk past and steal a kiss, grab a hug or just give her a compliment, but I am doing this far far more than I did during our early years.

 

So basically my question is, have others noticed their love for their significant other increase tenfold as you mature in your relationship?

-Redditor: steveplat66 

 

Redditor: FrostySquirrel820:

"True love, if tended properly, continues to grow daily."

Insight - Attachment Theory, proposed by John Bowlby and later developed by Mary Ainsworth, suggests that strong emotional bonds are formed between individuals, particularly in intimate relationships. When partners tend to their emotional needs, provide support, and foster a secure attachment, it creates a foundation of trust and intimacy. This secure attachment serves as a basis for the continued growth of love.

Redditor: EpicSteak

"Married 34 years, she is beside now me sleeping. I love and lust her more than ever.

Her smile lights me up, her touch is like nothing else and the sex better than ever

Different now with hurting hips, or a stiff back but you work around it. 😄"

Insight - Self-Determination Theory, proposed by Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, emphasizes the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in human motivation and well-being. In a loving relationship, when partners feel respected, understood, and valued for who they are, it fulfills their need for relatedness. This sense of connection and belonging contributes to the ongoing growth of love.

Redditor: MVIII

"My theory is that as you age you become more intune with your true authentic self. So when you love you love with more authenticity. So it feels stronger and just all round... More loving"

Insight  - Emotional Intimacy involves the sharing of one's innermost thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities with a partner. When partners actively engage in deep conversations, practice active listening, and provide emotional support, it fosters a sense of closeness and intimacy. This emotional connection is vital for the continued growth of love.

Redditor: RoyalPaddy

"I can’t explain it well - but I think the longer you are together, experiencing life together, weathering the ups and downs, making memories together, trusting each other and appreciating each other- that all makes love grow deeper and stronger."

Insight - Positive Reinforcement, Based from behaviorist theories, the concept of positive reinforcement suggests that behaviors that are rewarded tend to be repeated. In a loving relationship, when partners express affection, appreciation, and validation for each other, it reinforces feelings of love and strengthens the emotional connection. This positive reinforcement encourages continued acts of love and nurtures its growth.

Redditor: SingsJazz
"Approaching our 20th anniversary. I love my husband very, very much. I am extremely grateful for him and never take him for granted. He, on the other hand, is borderline obsessed with me. I have to laugh -- it really is kind of adorable. We both feel very lucky to have found each other. Wish we had met when we were younger. We savor every day together. A good marriage can be the heart and soul of a well-lived life."

Insight - Reciprocal Altruism, In psychology, reciprocal altruism refers to the idea that individuals are more likely to engage in altruistic behaviors when they expect a similar level of kindness or support in return. In a loving relationship, partners who reciprocate each other's acts of kindness and care create a positive feedback loop. This mutual exchange of affection and support strengthens the bond and contributes to the growth of love.

 

In summary, true love is not static; it is a dynamic and evolving force that can thrive when nurtured. By attending to each other's emotional needs, engaging in reciprocal acts of kindness, and creating a secure and supportive attachment, partners can continue to strengthen their bond and allow love to grow daily. These principles align with various psychological theories that emphasize the importance of connection, reciprocity, and emotional intimacy in intimate relationships.

-O

Mastering Time Management in A Hybrid Work Setup

In a world where work and personal life are more intertwined than ever before, finding that perfect balance can feel like a Herculean task. But fear not, because we'll be sharing practical strategies that will equip you with the tools you need to thrive in this new work landscape.

 

We'll dive deep into topics like time blocking, prioritization, and focus.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the waters of remote and in-office work, our mission is to provide you with actionable tips and proven techniques to boost your productivity, set effective boundaries, and harmonize your work and personal life.

The Top 3 Techniques

One highly effective technique for mastering time management in a hybrid work setup is **Time Blocking**.

 

**Time Blocking** involves allocating specific blocks of time to dedicated tasks or activities. Here's how you can implement it effectively:

 

1. **Plan Your Day Ahead**: At the start of each day or the night before, create a detailed schedule. Identify the most important tasks that need to be accomplished.

 

2. **Allocate Specific Time Slots**: Assign specific time blocks for each task or activity. Be realistic about how much time each task will take.

 

3. **Minimize Multitasking**: Focus on one task during each time block. This helps prevent distractions and allows you to give your full attention to the task at hand.

 

4. **Include Breaks**: Ensure you schedule short breaks between time blocks. These breaks allow you to recharge and maintain focus throughout the day.

 

5. **Set Boundaries**: Clearly communicate your time blocks to colleagues and family members. Let them know when you're available and when you need uninterrupted focus.

 

6. **Adaptability is Key**: While time blocking provides structure, it's important to remain flexible. Emergencies or unexpected tasks may arise, and you should be prepared to adjust your schedule accordingly.

 

7. **Reflect and Adjust**: At the end of each day, review how effectively you used your time blocks. Adjust your approach as needed based on what worked and what didn't.

 

By implementing time blocking, you can enhance your productivity, maintain a clear separation between work and personal life, and make the most of your time in a hybrid work setup.

 

____

Prioritization is a foundational skill in time management. It enables individuals in a hybrid work setup to make the most of their available time, achieve their objectives, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

**Prioritization using the Eisenhower Matrix**

 

The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix, is a powerful tool for prioritizing tasks. It categorizes tasks into four quadrants:

 

1. **Urgent and Important**: These are tasks that require immediate attention and are crucial to your goals. They should be addressed as a top priority.

 

2. **Important, but Not Urgent**: These tasks contribute to your long-term goals but don't require immediate action. Allocate specific time blocks for these tasks to ensure they don't get neglected.

 

3. **Urgent, but Not Important**: These tasks may seem pressing, but they don't directly contribute to your long-term goals. Try to delegate or find efficient ways to handle them.

 

4. **Not Urgent and Not Important**: These tasks are low-priority and should be minimized or eliminated. They often serve as distractions.

____

Hybrid work settings can sometimes lead to more distractions, especially when working from home. Focus reduces the impact of potential disruptions. 

 

When you have a clear understanding of which tasks are most important, you can make more informed decisions about how to allocate your time, resources, and attention.

 

**The Pomodoro Technique**

 

This  is a time management method that utilizes focused work intervals (usually 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. Here's how you can apply it:

 

1. **Set a Timer**: Choose a task and set a timer for 25 minutes (this period is called a "Pomodoro").

 

2. **Work with Focus**: During the Pomodoro, work on the task with undivided attention, avoiding any distractions or interruptions.

 

3. **Take a Short Break**: When the timer goes off, take a short break (around 5 minutes). Use this time to relax, stretch, or grab a quick snack.

 

4. **Repeat**: After four Pomodoros, take a longer break (around 15-30 minutes). Then, start the cycle again.

 

 

The Pomodoro Technique helps maintain focus and productivity while allowing for regular breaks, which can be especially beneficial in a hybrid work setup where distractions may be more prevalent.

____

Summary

By combinging these 3 tools: Time Blocking, the Eisenhower Matrix, and the Pomodoro Technique. You are arming yourself in optimizing productivity, setting boundaries, and achieving balance.

 

Time Blocking:

Technique for Optimizing Productivity and Setting Boundaries

Time Blocking is a structured approach to managing your day by dividing it into distinct blocks dedicated to specific tasks or activities. This technique empowers you to take control of your schedule, ensuring that every minute is utilized purposefully.

 

 

Application in a Hybrid Work Environment:

In the hybrid work model, where the lines between work and personal life may blur, Time Blocking provides a clear framework. By allocating specific time slots to work-related tasks, personal commitments, and breaks, you establish boundaries that foster balance.

 

Eisenhower Matrix:

Technique for Prioritization and Effective Decision-Making

The Eisenhower Matrix is a strategic tool that categorizes tasks based on their urgency and importance. By classifying tasks into four quadrants, individuals can discern which activities deserve immediate attention and which can be deferred or delegated.

Application in a Hybrid Work Environment:

In a hybrid work setup, where distractions and competing demands are common, the Eisenhower Matrix acts as a compass. It guides you in allocating time and energy to tasks that align with your overarching goals, ensuring that you focus on what truly matters.

 

Pomodoro Technique:

Technique for Sustained Focus and Productivity

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that employs focused work intervals, typically 25 minutes, followed by short breaks. By structuring work into concentrated bursts, individuals enhance their concentration, productivity, and efficiency.

Application in a Hybrid Work Environment:

For those navigating the challenges of a hybrid work setup, the Pomodoro Technique offers a lifeline. It enables you to immerse yourself in tasks without succumbing to distractions, while the regular breaks ensure sustained productivity without burnout.

 

Conclusion:

In the complex terrain of a hybrid work environment, mastering time management is a non-negotiable skill. Time Blocking, the Eisenhower Matrix, and the Pomodoro Technique serve as indispensable allies, equipping individuals with the tools they need to optimize productivity, establish boundaries, and strike a harmonious balance between work and personal life. By integrating these techniques into your routine, you'll not only excel in the hybrid work landscape but also thrive in the face of evolving professional challenges.

 

~Othello

researched and fact checked by the Quarantined Tipsters

 

 

 

Ted Lasso: Lessons on Kindness, Leadership, and Team Dynamics

 
"Ted Lasso" is a hit TV series from Apple that offers a plethora of valuable lessons and insights. We have compiled 8 resounding insights and reflections from Season 1. This will definitely benefit you as we will be tackling positive leadership styles, emotional intelligence, resilience in the face of challenges, cultivating a growth mindset and so much more, here in the 1st episode of the season 4 of the QT podcast.
 
  

1. Positive Leadership Styles

One of the standout scenes that exemplifies Ted's positive leadership style, occurs in Season 1, Episode 3.
 
In this episode, Trent Crimm, a cynical journalist, is assigned to cover an interview with Ted and  AFC Richmond deliberately, for the purpose of humiliating Ted as instructed by Rebecca. 
 
Ted, aware of Trent's skepticism, doesn't shy away from the challenge. Instead, he takes it as an opportunity to win Trent over.
 
There's a moment when Ted offered Trent a dinner date, to formalize the interview as way of showing courtesy because of the hectic schedule on that day leaving no room for a 1 on one with him, it's a gesture of kindness and hospitality. He engages Trent in a warm and genuine conversation, showing a sincere interest in getting to know him beyond the role of a journalist. Ted's positivity and authentic connection with Trent start to break down the journalist's initial reservations.
 
This scene showcases Ted's belief in the power of positivity and kindness to build connections and win people over, even in the face of skepticism or negativity. It's a prime example of how Ted's leadership style goes beyond the field and extends to his interactions with everyone he encounters. This positive approach ultimately leads to deeper relationships and a more harmonious team dynamic.
 
Ted Lasso exemplifies a unique and effective leadership style. He leads with kindness, empathy, and positivity, showing that a positive attitude can have a significant impact on team dynamics and performance. This highlights the importance of nurturing a positive work environment.
 
 
 
 

2. Emotional Intelligence

The characters in the series display high levels of emotional intelligence. They understand and manage their own emotions, as well as those of others. This teaches viewers the value of empathy, active listening, and understanding in building strong relationships, both personally and professionally.
 
 
There's a poignant moment that beautifully illustrates Ted's emotional intelligence. 
Ted notices that the team's star player, Dani Rojas, is struggling emotionally after a game-winning penalty kick goes horribly wrong, injuring the team's mascot, Earl. Dani is visibly upset and feels responsible for the incident.
 
Rather than immediately addressing the football-related issue, Ted approaches Dani with empathy and sensitivity. He invites Dani to talk about what's on his mind, creating a safe space for him to express his feelings. Through their conversation, Ted shows a deep understanding of Dani's emotional state and offers support, demonstrating a genuine concern for Dani's well-being beyond his performance on the field.
 
Ted's ability to connect on an emotional level and provide a supportive environment for Dani reflects his high emotional intelligence. He recognizes that a player's mental and emotional state can significantly impact their performance and overall well-being. This scene showcases Ted's capacity to be attuned to the feelings of others and respond with compassion, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence in effective leadership.
 
 
 

3. Resilience in the Face of Challenges

The characters in "Ted Lasso" face various challenges, both on and off the field. Ted's ability to stay resilient, maintain a positive outlook, and find creative solutions demonstrates the power of perseverance and adaptability in overcoming obstacles.
 
In Season 1 of "Ted Lasso," there's a powerful moment that exemplifies Ted's resilience in the face of challenges. This occurs in Episode 7, titled "Make Rebecca Great Again."
 
In this episode, AFC Richmond faces a particularly tough game against the reigning champions. The team is struggling, and Ted faces pressure and doubt from various quarters. Despite the odds stacked against them, Ted remains steadfast and unwavering in his positive outlook.
 
During a crucial halftime speech, Ted acknowledges the difficulties they're facing, but he doesn't let it dampen his spirit. Instead, he motivates the team with a blend of humor, optimism, and genuine belief in their abilities. He encourages them to keep pushing forward, emphasizing that they're all in it together.
 
This scene showcases Ted's resilience by demonstrating his ability to maintain a positive attitude and provide unwavering support to his team, even in the most challenging moments. It highlights his capacity to lead by example, showing that in the face of adversity, maintaining a resilient and positive mindset can make all the difference. Ted's unwavering spirit serves as a source of inspiration for his team and underscores the power of resilience in overcoming challenges.
 
 

 
 
 

4. Teamwork and Collaboration

The show emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration. It showcases how a diverse group of individuals can come together, support each other, and achieve common goals. This serves as a reminder of the strength that comes from working together.
 
 
In the episode entitled Two Aces, AFC Richmond is struggling with team cohesion, and conflicts arise among the players. There's tension, misunderstandings, and a general sense of discord within the team.
 
Ted saw the opportunity to unite the team when Dani Rojas got injured by organizing an activity involving each of the players, including Rebecca and Nate, to join a sacrificial offering exercise, just so to lift the curse in the team's treatment room.
 
Through this exercise, Ted fosters an environment of trust and camaraderie among the players. It encourages them to communicate openly, listen to each other, and work together to find solutions. 
 
The episode ultimately showcases how Ted's approach to leadership in prioritizing teamwork and collaboration, emphasizing that success on the field is a collective effort that requires unity and mutual respect.
 
This scene highlights Ted's ability to bring people together, promote open communication, and foster a sense of belonging within the team. It exemplifies the powerful impact that teamwork and collaboration can have on achieving common goals, both in sports and in any collaborative endeavor.
 
 

____

This 1st installment of  Episode 1 Season 4 of the QT podcast, entitled Ted Lasso's Lessons on kindness, leadership, and team dynamics was brought to you by our partner website blog.billymacdeus.com.
 
To wrap, we covered 4 lessons in this episode namely: Positive Leadership Style, Emotional Intelligence, Resilience in the Face of Challenges, and Teamwork & Collaboration.
 
We hoped you enjoyed listening to this 1st installment, and we look forward to you on staying with us in our Episode 2 of Ted's Lessons on Kindness, Leadership and Team Dynamics.
 
 
Our Episode 2 Season 4 of the QT Podcast will showcase the remaining lessons and insights such as Cultivating a Growth Mindset, Balancing professional and personal life, The impact of mentorship, and last but not the least Overcoming Stereotypes and prejudices will air next Sunday, that's 1st of October 2023.
 
 
Thank you once again for listening to the QT, where wel equip you with the tools and insights to thrive this rapidly changing world,  leaving you inspired and refreshed with amazing perspectives.
 
 
My friends…, Stay emotionally intelligent, and, continue to tip the scales in your favor!
My name is Othello, your host, here at the QT Podcast.

- O 

PS: 

- follow us on Facebook - https://facebook.com/billymacdeusblog/ 

- listen and follow us on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7sH34AGgdcGTZ5ZwWMQ6bE?si=Hm5ClPStS7mO2iQQZ4PsSw/  

Iglesia Ni Cristo 109th Anniversary #ThankfulNoMatterWhat #INC109

 
What Are You Thankful For?

Last July 27, the church celebrated its 100 and 9th anniversary.. it is appropriate and right, therefore to support and partake in the Thanksgiving Anniversary of the Church thru a special worship service.

In reflection - this meaningful experience must be shared, not only from within but as well as to everyone specially to you, as a listener of this podcast.
Our team compiled some publicly curated posts on soc med like Facebook and instagram about the church member's thoughts on what they are thankful for.
We shall read verbatim these posts as a way of sharing, reflecting, and savoring the beauty and inspiration being brought by what it means to be a member of the Church of Christ.

Sister Wilminia Dumaop

Happy 109th Anniversary dear brethren! 🇮🇹✨

With Thanksgiving as we celebrate the victories of the church, I remember my journey as a convert. It’s been 18 years since I started listening to God’s words.

There had been so many challenges along the way. Choosing what is right is not always easy.

To get stronger, I decided to become an officer in the church.

Being an officer in the church is indeed the best decision I made. It taught me so many things. We always pray for a “wise heart”. This lead me to my husband. My Kawikaan 19:14. ☺️

Our life together flourished with grace. What we have today is more than what I asked for in my prayers. 

 

God’s love indeed continue to manifest in our life. The growth of our family is the testament to that. For all of this, without any doubt, we will always remain steadfast and thankful to our Lord God. ⚓️❤️🙏🏻

 

#INC109

#DistrictofSingapore

___

Brother Anthony Taberna

At Iglesia Ni Cristo, Templo Central — Isang maligayang bati sa lahat  ng mga Kapatid sa Iglesia ni Cristo sa buong mundo. Happy 109th Anniversary po. Salamat sa Panginoong Diyos dahil tayo'y nakapananatili sa karapatan. Nawa'y matupad sa atin ang dakilang layunin ng Tagapamahalang Pangkalahatan na tayo'y makarating sa pagtatamo ng kaligtasan sa harap ng mabigat na mga pagsubok na dinadaanan. Kaya malinaw ang tagubilin sa atin sa pagsamba ngayon - "Maging handa kayo at magpakatatag sa inyong pananalig. Magpakatapang kayo at magpakatibay (I Cor. 16:13 MB)" 

#AkoyIglesianiCristo #IkinararangalKo 

#INC109 

#PurihinAngPanginoon

#OneWithEVM

___

Brother Jeremy Pasamonte

Ano man ang mangyari sa atin Biyaya man yan o Pagsubok lagi tayong Magpasalamat sa Ama 🇮🇹

 Happy Anniversary Thanksgiving! 🇮🇹

#INC109🇮🇹

___

Sister Rowena  Sibulo 

Happy 109th Anniversary dear brethren! 🇮🇹✨

As we celebrate the victories of the church, I remember my journey during those many times in my life while performing my duty as a Light of Salvation (LOS) officer in Ecclesiastical District of Australia East.

 

It was in 2013, when a worst flood happened in Bundaberg, our house was in an island and no other mode of transport could passed through our suburb. We waited for about a week to clear some of the roads to be passable for vehicles. The city of Bundaberg was separated by the Burnett River that connects by 2 major bridges, and due to the damages caused by the floods,  we had to travel 2 hours around to get to the other side of the city, normally only 5 minutes. During that time, it was a must to get around so we can attend the worship service. 

“We need to believe in, trust in and rely on what God can do for us” based on Jeremiah 17:7 Amplified Bible. 

There was also a time in my life when I had to choose my duty over a  great opportunity to get a job offer in United Kingdom. When I got inspired by the message of our beloved Brother Eduardo V. Manalo to help in the intensive works of propagation in villages. An Aid for Humanity in the island of Vanuatu was held in January 2020, as an LOS officer it is very inspiring to be part of this propagational works. Before I decided to accept a job offer in UK, I decided to stay for a month in Vanuatu to help out, then Covid-19 came and all international ports of entry were closed and shut. I was stuck in the islands of Espiritu Santo and Port Vila, but I was confident that moment that our Lord God allowed me to stay there so to help our brethren in the intensive works of propagation. We visited villages and educated them how to look after themselves during the pandemic. Thankfully, with God’s loving mercy, during the 5-month of my stay, the islands were Covid free and zero case.  Indeed, it continues to manifest in our life the love of our Almighty God and our Lord Jesus Christ  to all the true servants who continue to faithfully fulfil their duties. With humility, we will always remain steadfast and firm in our divine election we receive. 😇❤️🙏🏻

 

#INC109

#DistrictofAustraliaWest

___

Brother Dave Solitario

Sabi sa teksto: 

Ang Pag-Asa ng isang Iglesia Ni Cristo ay  itinutulad sa isang ⚓️ SINIPETE. 

Matatag at hindi natitinag. 

 

Ang atin namang Paksang Diwa: Kailangan tayong Sumampalataya, Magtiwala, 

At UMASA. 

 

PAG-ASA. Pansinin po natin itong salita sa lahat ng napagdaanan nating mga paksang-diwa, mga leksyon at mga awit na inawit natin. 

 

Mahalagang magkaroon ng matibay na Pag-Asa sa isang Iglesia Ni Cristo, dahil alam natin na tatanaw tayo sa magagawa Diyos kapag kapag tayo ay nasa matinding kahirapan. Sa mga pagkakataon na para bang tayo ay nag-iisa, Aasa tayo sa tulong ng Diyos na makakasama natin siya. 

 

Minsan hindi ko narin maisip na pagkasiyahin ang oras ko sa career na Content Creator, pero laging pinagpapauna ko ang pagtupad bilang organista ng aming Lokal. May mga pagkakataon na sinakripisyong ang ilang mga opportunities na lalo ko sanang ika-sikat at ika-yaman pero pinili ko parin tumupad ng tungkulin. 

 

At hindi ko nga ito pagsisisihan dahil alam kong sa pag-tupad ako napapayapa. Dito ako hinubog at pinalaki, ito yung kayamanan na hindi ko ipagpapalit.

 

Sabi nga po ng isang Pangulong Diakono namin sa lokal si Ka. Jaime Maclang sa akin, ay basta tumupad lang ng tumupad. Papalitan naman lahat ng Biyaya. 

 

After multiple video shoots, gigs and

TV Apperances, nakakapagpabahagi parin ng talento ko sa pagpeperform sa mga kalapit distrito, pero higit sa lahat;

 

Mang-aawit at Organista sa aming Lokal, at isang taon nang boluntaryong naglilingkod at tumutulong sa INC Music Department. 

Sa Tulong at Awa ng Diyos at pagmamalaskit ng Namamahala. 

 

Wag tayo mawalan ng Pag-Asa. ⚓️

 

#INC109 

____

Othello

First! We still have our life and strength -- I get to nurture my faith and continuously believe in the power of a divine being-Him as the God Almighty. I had always been inspired to return the praises of thankfulness  espcially during the Anniversary Thanksgiving Day of the Church. 

 

Life and strength are two powerful components of a the human race. Life itself is fleeting, precious and at the same time wondrous. Strength -- which drives our physical being to function day by day, and in another context, Strength -- which allows our fervor within our minds and heart to continue moving onward, daily in this journey.

 

Once these two are gone - we are left with nothing, non-existent, "lifeless" if but for a better phrase. Therefore life and strength are important to us - without these, how can function? It is just right, to be thankful to Him… it is just right to extol The Almighty God.

 

 

Secondly, the election that I am still a member of the Church of Christ. 

 

You know some people are saying that we should not settle for less on the things we acquire in this life particularly those important things, services, moments that make us happy, friendships, groups we belong to, or anything that matters to us and close to our hearts.

 

And if we will reflect on our spiritual journey and it's affiliation, ASK this - are you nourished to where you belong in your spiritual community?

 

I would truly speak with conviction that yes, I am nourished, and kept on flourishing as a member of the church, and as a human being sojourning in this world.

~Othello
image courtesy of Brother Michael Johnson Rapote

Tara! Kape Tayo...

 

Ang sabi mo: "Tara! Kape tayo..."

Ako naman, agad-agad na nagreply: "Sigiii!, anlamig kase, naulan at kailangang gumalaw-galaw".

At ayun na nga, nagkita tayo sa McDo; instead na mag-dine in tayo, we ended doing a drive-thru and digging in to our orders sa sasakyan, nagpark tayo kasi halos walang nakaparking, infact, parang tayo lang ang customers during that wee hours ng early Sunday. At isa iyon sa mga dahilan siguro, 'yung parang sarili natin ang mundo, kung bakit ka biglang nag-open up ng iyong mga saloobin.

Ang sabi mo: "Life is just so unfair, alam mo yon? 'yong halos ginagawa mo naman halos ang lahat para makatawid sa araw-araw pero kulang parin."

Sabay ang iyong buntong-hininga.

Ramdam ko ang bigat ng hirap ng kalooban mo, the fact na pinatay ko ung AC ng sasakyan, mas lalo kong nafeel 'yong emotions mo, kaya hindi ako kaagad nakapag-react.

I tried my best to put my words into something that would take away somehow the gravity of your problems ngunit para akong napipi. Ang tangi kong nasambitla ay: "Anong meron?"

While me enjoying my coffee and sipping it slowly, ramdam ko uli na parang gusto mong umiyak habang you're trying to mix the cream and sugar.

Sa garalgal mong tinig, nasabi mo ang mga ganito: "Parang 'di ko na kaya, ang mga sunod-sunod na nangyayari sa aking buhay, at sa aming pamilya. Alam mo naman, ako halos ang sumasagot sa mga gugulin namin."

"Tanggap ko na iyon, pero nito ngang lately lang, another sad news came in... at napaisip ako, sadya nga bang ito ang destiny ko or i was just being tested - kung kelan ako makakatagal?"

I immediately cut you off: "Anong sad news? Ano bang nangyari???!"

At ayun na nga, bigla kang humagulgol at sabay yakap sa akin. Ramdam ko ang mainit na mga luha sa pagpatong ng 'yong mukha sa aking mga balikat.

(itutuloy....)

~ Othello

Sunday morning at Mcdo Philippines