Dear Sir Daryl,

"I don't like him" - These were the first words my mouth spilled out when I first met you. You sure knew the reason... But when I got along with you during Mr. and Ms. CEU 2012, I realized how kind-hearted person you were. I could count the times I hung with you on my fingers, but could never count all things you taught me.

Very HILARIOUS, it was, but you were the only person who said my singing voice resembles Mariah Carey's. I wanted to roll out laughing, but to be honest, that boosted my confidence. I've been disliking this husky manly voice, just so you know. You were such an intelligent and a talented person. Hence, there was no doubt you were a good mentor, choreographer, and a professor. You unselfishly shared your learnings with many people and even touched their lives through your inspiring stories and words.

Remember the time when we unwinded at this particular wine bar in QC? I was able to know you more. Perhaps you were already drunk that you couldn't stop yourself from narrating your life and love stories. You even mentioned why you were called "Sam" instead of "Daryl". How about when some of the candidates spent night at your place? Did you know I felt you were like a mom to us? We woke up with delicious breakfast placed on the table. I appreciate each time you inboxed me on Facebook just to say "Bakla, I miss you".

When I learned the news about you, I got shocked, felt sad, and cried but sought help from Him. It felt bad that I wasn't able to visit you at the hospital. Neither did see you before you opted to finally be with Him.

Sir Sam, thank you for being a good teacher and a thoughtful friend. Few memories we had yet will definitely be cherished.

I'm gonna miss you, Sir Daryl. And I am happy for you because you are now with your first love, Sam, and with our Almighty God. I love you, Sir!

Love,

Annizah

Employment Arena

Who would think that I could actually be an employed person only after a week of job hunting? Bragging, you say? Na-uh! This is the reason my parents brought me here right after I finished college.

My parents are aware of how scanty job offers are in the Philippines and how many millions of students graduate every year. It would take a month or more before you receive job interviews. They did not need to inject this slight note of reality into me because I myself know that getting a job there is like getting a blood out of stone.

You may say I ain't competitive enough for I chose to walk on an easy path, instead of vying for a job position with millions of fresh graduates. But I say... Not! Saudi Arabia is a rich country that gives livelihood to several Filipinos. It is easy to find your business here but not easy to work with other races whose personalities are unfamiliar. In fact, working abroad means lucking through. You are going out of your comfort zone which is the Philippines. No one knows if you would succeed or not. One more reason for working here is practicality. Why choose to be open-mouthed as you wait for calls from companies if there is an open door waiting for you? And of course, I want to help my parents in our expenses as early as possible. That is a meaningful reason that pushed me to seek job here. So voila! I am now an overseas Filipino worker in the kingdom.

When I received my first salary, my heart beat (past tense) fast that I was shaking as the man handed me the moolah. The feeling of receiving salary you work hard for is way different to receiving a TF. You know how much sweat and blood you sacrifice just to gain it. Wanna know how I spent my first salary?

When a typical childless unmarried person receives his salary, he sure buys the latest gadget. Well, I am not typical. I only bought an Ab King Pro (hoping I can get a flat abdomen. lol!) and did a so-so shopping spree. Moreover, I brought my whole fam bam to a restaurant. Then the rest of my money went to my little sister's bank account. It is alright to put some money for indulgence. But I will never use most of it for dispensable stuff. I have many plans for my future and family's. Hence, I think twice before I execute a certain act.

Life is too short. I have 10 years to achieve all my dreams and goals before I settle down and start my own family. And I am sure, God is with me all throughout! :)

Prayer

Dear God,

I am taking every pin that pricks my heart wholeheartedly for I know this is Your way of giving me might. And in the end, I believe that You would give me the saviour who will bestow warmth in my frail heart.

Thank You, Oh God...

Cordially,
A.C.