Another Rare Song That I've Finally Found: La Bel Age

Ever since I found out about 99.5 rt's "24K" program, I was hooked for life. This was because that I thought had vanished with time came alive once more. More importantly, the memories of the great times when these songs filled the airwaves. Apart from listening to my oldies but goodies, I also plan to ask the station to look for other songs that deserve to be play on 24K Weekend. One such song that I finally found in the internet is by the Pat Benatar called "La Bel Age".

The first time I heard this song, it really blew me away. It had class, passion and when she hit the high notes, it really makes you freeze in your tracks and listen to the song. The video is also cool where there were all these people in classy bar watching sing this song. The way she sang it and the way the crowd applauded, you'd think it wall real and not just a video. All of the above are the ingredients of a 24K song.

I know there are still a lot of good songs out there that deserve to on that program. I do so hope that they play more songs from the 60s and 70s too that are also rare. These songs are not only cool to listen to but also bring back the times when life was simple and bonds were strong. As I've always said, 24K is the next best thing to a time machine for going back. May it stay on the air forever and always take us back in time!

When He Looked Like He Was Having A Good Time: Don't Stop Till You Get Enough By Micheal Jackson

Last Friday, I was surfing the channels to look for something good to watch. Just as I was about to go to bed, CNN broadcast a breaking news about Micheal Jackson being rushed to the hospital due to a heart attack. Doctors were trying to do all that they can for him. As I picked up the stack of newspapers to scan for any press or photo release, it was all over the news that the "King Of Pop" has died and the whole world was shocked by his sudden departure. Right now, details of what happened to him are still making the headlines. Although he had a lot of great hits when I was a high school freshman, I'd rather go back to the earlier days when he didn't any plastic surgery and one song of his that I have to admit that I was fond of was the song "Don't Stop Till You Get Enough".

This song came out during later days of disco and if you saw the video, it was very primitive compared to today's standards. Still for anyone to have heard the song and seen the music video has to admit that there was something catchy about it. When he moved there, I wouldn't be surprised if it wasn't choreographed and he just made it up right then and there. His songs and moves have influenced many pop artist both here and abroad. The reason why I chose this song and video is because, I feel that he was himself here and he really looked like he was having fun.

A lot of celebrities and fans are saddened by his death and no doubt, if he had pulled through, he'd still have a lot to give. When I see this video and listen to the song, I would remember him this way. I know that there some people out there would agree. If only his eccentricities didn't get the better of him, things might have been different. Well rest in peace Jacko as your fans will miss you dearly.

@ Yahoo! Video

You Won't Get The Best Of Me: A Civilized Man By Joe Cocker

One reason why I am rarely interested in watching television, let alone the movies is because most of the characters are often jerks who are emotionally impulsive and do reckless and annoying stunts which makes me root for the bad guy instead. I'd like to go back to the gold old days when characters had more common sense and never let crap like this slide. Also, back then they never easily tempted and always overcame such ploys to come out on top. Joe Cocker's song "Civilized Man" reminds of those good old times.

I have never been an emotional person; nor was I prone to doing anything reckless. The reason for that is because I've seen what happens when emotion gets the better of people. They go blind; start doing something stupid and make excuses to justify their actions. Now I know why in the novel the God Father, Vito Corleone never revealed, let alone, blurted out his feelings cause it left him open for his enemies to analyze his thoughts. It embarrassing and dangerous when a person goes blind and the consequences are always severe in the end.

Keeping one's emotions controlled, especially when things are falling apart is necessary when you need to solve a bad situation. When something needs to be done, you need to focus your energy and not let emotions distract you. Analyze the situation and make the necessary recommendations to solve it. Acting like a jackass never solves anything and only makes people hold you in low esteem. I guess that's the reason why I liked what Mr. Miyagi said when he told Danny never to put passion over principle because even if you win, you still lose.

You're Not Alone: Message In A Bottle By The Police

With all the bad things that are happening around the globe, we are really feeling the pressure everyday. Whether it's the economy, terrorism, flu viruses, corruption or whatever terrible news, everybody is affected and it doesn't matter who or where they are because nobody can avoid this deluge of bad news. The problem is that when things are bad, we all think that we're only ones who are affected. As a result we often are caught up in our own problems that we think the world revolves only on us. The song "Message In A Bottle" by The Police reminds us no matter how bad things are, that is not the case.

A lot of times, during my "Black Days", I often felt like I was alone in my problems, but I never made a fuss about it unlike some jerks who brag about everything including the STUPIDITY THAT THEIR KIN DO. I realize that there are people out there who had the same problems that I did and though their level of difficulty was worse than mine, they still kept their cool and some even conquered the problems that have caused their isolation. I talked with some of them and got some good advice on how they were able to overcome their obstacles. Although I'm still trying to figure out, I am determine to do what they did and that's to solve my problems and make my dreams come true. That's the my main goal right now.

Although there are times when it gets to much and I get stressed out, once I get it out of my system, I refocus my energy to what I want to achieve which is not just for me but for the people around me. Although I still have a lot of problems, I know that I am not alone. Instead of moping, I'm doing my best to fix this situation and hopefully come out on top. I don't want my problems to trapped me in an emotional island. I want something better and I am determined to find on my own terms. I know it's out there and I'll find it even without an SOS.

Message In A Bottle @ Yahoo! Video

Keep On Trying No Matter What: Lonesome Loser

When it comes to losing, I've had more than my fair share of it. Heck, if losing was a sport, I've probably a bettor's pick. That thought doesn't still well with me because loss is like a knife cutting a piece of my heart. The fact that I'm getting older is forcing me to really evaluate my status in life and it's really getting me down. Be that as it may, I still believe that something good will happen if I keep on trying just like the Little River Band's song "Lonesome Loser".

Like the guy in the song, loneliness and the number of losses really gets to me that I try my best to keep it together. Still, it's heart-breaking when the memories of those dreams that fell short sometimes overcome me. I guess that's the reason why I read a lot about historical figures who started out as failures and eventually got it right. It gives me hope because despite the constant set-backs, they were able to overcome and achieve their dreams. Hopefully, I'll be able to do the same too.

I always believe that people are capable of breaking their losing streaks and that what I set out to do. To achieve that I try to learn from mistakes, broaden my search for opportunities, assess advice given by other people and try to analyze how things can be made to be more productive. I also try to think outside the box and learn new skills to add to the things that I can already do. I hope that all this will bear fruit and the streak gets busted. Even losers get lucky when they keep on trying.

Spread The Positive Vibes Around: Shiny, Happy People

R.E.M. was one of the fathers of alternative music and one of my favorite bands when I was about graduate from high school. They were one of those few groups whose always had something deep to say to its listeners. A lot of times, their songs were really about something that was either surreal or dealt with a serious topic. One of my favorite songs from the groups was ironically one of their more whimsical tunes. The song was called "Shiny, Happy People".

Whenever I hear this song, I really feel pretty good as if all the crap of the day was swept into the garbage can and everything just shines. I also feeling that I'm surrounded by positive and really cool dudes who spread the love and happiness around. It reminds me just how a smile or a warm greeting make spread to other people. When you're surrounded by positive, energetic and happy people, it's impossible not to get caught up in the positive aura that they spread all over the place. Whether you're at work, exercising or simply hanging, with people who have this kind of attitude, anything is possible.

Being around positive thinking people is a really inspiring feeling. They pull you out of your rut and give you the opportunity to shine. We need more people like these, especially now that there's too much bad news in the world. For those who would criticize these people and try to put them down, I'd say "Take your crap somewhere else"! There's nothing like shiny, happy people to brighten up the world.

REM "Shiny happy people"
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Letting It All Out: Shout By Tears For Fears

One of the reasons why I got myself into the mess that I'm in is because I never fully said what I really felt. A lot of times I kept everything bottled up inside me. I didn't realize that later on, the emotional repercussions of holding back would affect a lot of things in my life. Although I regret keeping things to myself and not expressing, let alone standing up for what I truly want, the best thing that I can do is move on and buck that awful habit. Everytime I hear Tears For Fears' song "Shout", I really wish that I did that I long time ago.

Like I said earlier, a lot of times, I just kept following what other people told me to do. When it came to what I wanted, it was very hard for express it and this was true after getting laughed at embarrassed for the things that I said which can surely lower your self-esteem. I'm not saying that everything a person dreams is always right and a lot of times, people often imperil themselves with reckless choices. I'm just saying that a person should be given a chance to truly say what he or she feels or he or she wants without ridicule. My only condition is that people say it with respect and hear the other side out. That way, people know what's really going on.

Inability to express oneself can badly affect one's growth and development and I learned that the hard way. These days I really speak my mind about what I truly want and feel and I have found out that it's a very liberating experience to finally say what I feel. These days, I pass the lesson to others because I don''t want them to go through what I went through. So go ahead and say what you really think and feel, but always do it with respect. That way people will understand and respect what it is you truly want and feel in life.

Tears For Fears - Shout
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Excess Don't Cure Stress: Industrial Disease By Dire Straits

24 years ago, I remember I could guzzle down a case of beer or a bottle of whisky and still go strong. These days, I'll be lucky if after a couple of beers, I can still walk straight. Right now, I'm trying hard to find ways to make ends meet and booze and that vice isn't going to solve my problems. It's bad enough that I'm stressed out which is why I don't think alcohol, smokes and all what-nots are the solution. When I think about the stress of daily life and the will resist smoking and boozing, the song "Industrial Disease" by Dire Straits comes to mind.

Coping with stress in a fast-paced society is getting difficult everyday. The first mistakes that new adults with wages is guzzle and smoke it all down. That's all fine but you do it in excess, eventually it takes its toll on you and when pressure from work and family sets in, that's the time when you really need to clear your head. At the point where things are tough all over, people take to the bottle or other vice just to get away from it. In the end, all you get is double the problems and solutions: a big fat 0.

These days, I try to clear my head and organize my thoughts when the stress bears down on me. I take to exercise to physically stay in shape and to channel my pressure out productively. Stress and vices really have a negative effect on a person which is like solving a wrong with another wrong. It's okay to have a swig when the time is right. Until then, keep your head clear and your thoughts focused and the world will turn.

I Won't Forget: Don't Forget Me When I'm Gone By Glass Tiger

As I have said before, everytime I hear a 24K song, I feel like riding a time machine and the good old days come alive again. Even things didn't go so well, I still had a blast. All the good music, the great gimicks and most of all good people who I had the honor of spending some time with. Whenever the 24K Weekend would end, I sometimes gaze out into the night and wonder how all of them are doing. They all were very cool and not a day goes by when I don't think of them. When I hear the song "Don't Forget Me When I'm Gone" by Glass Tiger, I do so hope we remember each other still.

I know that this is about a guy courting a girl, the fact that it's about remembering people really makes it a 24K song. When people have been big part of one's life, it sure is sad when you don't see them again, let alone, enjoy their company. Whether it was the gang, a good friend or a girl one had a crush on, we all wish that we remain in their hearts as much they remain inside us. It also made you truly appreciate your youth as those were the days when the good times rolled. Now they're alive in our minds and in our hearts.

I hardly hear from them, let alone, see them but inside they'll always be alive. I don't know where they are but I hope that they're doing alright. I can never thank them enough for the great moments that they have shared with me. So when the next 24K program rolls along, the faces, the places and the memories will come alive again. I'll never forget for they are always be with me.

When You Listen To Fools: Mob Rules By Black Sabbath

With all the bad news coming one after another, you start wondering if all of it is true. What's worse is when somebody starts to cry "Wolf" and pretty soon everything fall apart in the chaos. People get so carried away with emotion that reason is lost in the confusion caused by lies perpetuated by fools. It's incredible how gullible people can really be. When I think of situations like these, I remember Black Sabbath's song "Mob Rules".

At times like these, the truth becomes so elusive. The part is when the truth is finally proclaimed, the lie has gathered enough strength that the truth becomes irrelevant. At this point, people will rather believe the lie than the truth. I guess that's why Union Gen. Ulysses Grant was one of my favorite war heroes because he was always so calm and amidst all the chaos, he differentiate between exaggeration and truth and thus come up with a plan. I wish more people were like that.

Whenever an awful development happens, people tend to forget that the first thing you have to do is find out what really happened and figure out what to do once they know the truth. Rather than just believe one side of the story. Try to get the whole picture before you let emotion lead you to do something you're going to regret. Unfortunately, people are now too emotional and common sense is becoming an endangered quality trait. That's what happens when the mob rules.

A Matter Of Time: Only Time Will Tell By Asia

That awful incident from two weeks ago is still vivid everyone's mind everyone's minds. Even now when the subject is brought up people's tempers are still high. I can't blame people because up until then, we have had to put up with a lot of crap and the fuse finally hit the powder and boom! The sad part for me is that I thought that we were off to a good start this year and everything would be okay. Dwelling on this latest fiasco makes me feel like listening to the song "Only Time Will Tell" by Asia.

You can say that this another of the "vodka" song in my earlier entries. Since that night, once again, I feel tense all over as what was destroyed because I barely recovered from that last fracas that everyone know but no one talks about. It's like finally repairing some that couldn't be restored only to some some fool break it again. The worse part is that this runs deeper and the fools who caused have scurried off into the shadows and are unwilling to face up to what they did. Causing something awful and not facing up to it really makes me mad.

So once again, the dark clouds have hovered over this house. Though there is still sunshine, pretty soon the rain, the lightning and the thunder will soon pour from the heavens and rain down upon it. When that happens, as always, we have no choice but to let things run its course because no one wants to make the first move. Even if they did, I wonder if they will ever remember, let alone learn not to do it again. Only time will tell when this black period will be over.

Asia - Only Time Will Tell
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Age Old Parent-Child Dilenma: Parents Just Don't Understand By DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince

I'm sure we all had experiences where we had times when we had some difficulties with our parents. Whether it was being forced to do things we don't want to do or getting caught for doing something foolish, we all wish our parents would see our side of the situation. When things don't turn out well, it often results in ill will on both parties concern. Even today, I'm not surprised if every family has this problem. DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince's song "Parents Just Don't Understand" hilariously illustrates this situation very well.

Just like the video, a lot of times when parents always dictate what how we go about things and their word is law. On the other hand, kids often act impulsively and recklessly which lands them in trouble. Like everyone else, I've had my share of both these situations and I often resented being pressured and was also scared of what they would do when I did something wrong. Today this situation is getting worse than ever. This is because parents and children seldom communicate or the relationship is so lax that in ends up in a shout-fest where no one wins.

Parent-child understanding is important to a child's development. Parents need to sit down and hear from their children what it is they want and don't so that they would know their kids better. For kids, they should understand what their folks go through everyday just to provide for them and really the pressure that is on them just to see to it that everything is taken care of. Both sides need to communicate more to ensure that each understand each other about rules as well as needs so they can get along well. When that is achieved then things will be all right between both parties, ensuring some level of harmony which is vital in these very hard times.

Hanging In There When Things Are Tough All Over: Take It To The Limit By The Eagles

This is probably the cheesiest entry that I ever written on this blog but then again this is one better songs that describes how I have been up until now. Life sure is getting harder and despite my efforts, things haven't changed or have gotten worse. I guess you can say that I'm a bit naive and also dreamer. I guess that's one of the reasons why I get slapped in the face with a fish when reality sets in and the disappointments fill my heart. Yet despite it all, I'll keep on trying and like that song of the Eagles called "Take It To The Limit", I won't give up while I still got some fight in me.

I've seen a lot of good things go bad over the years and each time that happened, it slices a piece of my heart. From good opportunities to potential relationships, when they crumble to dust, you feel your heart pop out of your mouth and your numb before you hit the floor. I can't even enjoy drinking anymore as all I do is guzzle the booze my gut and knock myself senseless. Unlike the song, I can seem to make love, money or time which is really depressing since I've missed out on so many things already. Everything is in a blur and I'm just trying to make sense out of it and survive.

Well I'm still alive and I still have people who care. These outlasting the tough times is main priority. I there are things that I am doing right now and this time around I won't give up on them. I know I got long and hard climb but this time I won't give up. I just that I do take it to the limit.

Missed Out And Incomplete: Far Behind By CandleBox

Whoever said that regret comes at the end sure was right. I'm already at that point of no return and I have very little to show for it. And to think that there were so many things that I missed out on a lot of things in life that right now, I feel so incomplete. The first time I heard CandleBox's song "Far Behind", those feelings of trying to catch up and missing sure hits me real hard.

A lot of times, whenever I think about those times, it really squeezes my chest. After that debacle from my first year in school, I've always been obssessed with trying to get back what I've lost and catch up with the group who I am supposed to be with. As I was trying to do just that, I missed out on a lot of things that could have made my life complete. Now that I'm getting older, I feel that time has past me by and with that, I've wasted more than I gained. I guess that's why lately I've been so sentimental, especially now that there are so many things to deal with, leaving me all stressed out.

Life is what we make of it and we have no one to blame but ourselves on how things turn out. As much as I wish I can turn back time, I know that I can't and must make the most of today. As incomplete as I feel right now, life moves on and I'm just glad that I still have options in life. I just hope that I make the most of it this time around because there's so much at stake. I just hope things work out because I want to change things because it hurts when time has past you by because like being left very far behind.

CandleBox - Far Behind.
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Stick To Your Beliefs: Keep The Faith By Bon Jovi

I wouldn't be surprised if at some point when we were growing, people would feed us ideas and beliefs on how we should live our lives. Some good and some of them bad, eventually whatever stays within us becomes the code of which becomes our bible in dealing with the world and others who live in it. Whether I agree with a person's outlook or not, I would still admire him if he sticks by his code. This is especially true when we believe in good even if bad things happen to us. Bon Jovi's song "Keep The Faith" reminds of staying true to what you believe and what is good no matter what other jerks tell you.

As I was growing up, I've seen sell-outs preach one thing then throw it out the window to promote something new. Guys like that treat faith and beliefs like some fashion trend that changes with the years. For me, what I believe and have faith will never change. Even when times are bad, I refuse to believe that things are hopeless and if I persevere, I will succeed in the end. I also know that someone out there is looking for us even during the bad times. Even when people smear or spit on what you hold dear, don't let them get to you. They're just bitter S.O.B.s who just want to spread their pee all over the place like a dog.

If there's anything that I learned lately is that faith and beliefs are important in a person's life. Teaching things that stand the test of time can really shape an individual. Don't listen to sell-outs who feed you a load of bull. If they were leopards or tigers, they would quickly change their spots. Remember friends: Stick to your beliefs and keep the faith and world will turn.

Bon Jovi - Keep the faith (MTV) @ Yahoo! Video

Another Cool Movie Soundtrack/Getting To Know Me Better: Iris By The Google Dolls

If the eighties were all about fun, the nineties were more somber and serious. Still, the music was very good and a lot of meaning. There were a lot great songs that I liked and I could relate to. I guess a lot of the songs described some of the left-over angst that still lingers from my youth. One song that I liked came from the soundtrack of the movie "City of Angels". The song was called "Iris" by the Gogo Dolls.

Whenever I hear that song, I remember the times when I often got misundertood by a lot of people. Sometimes it due to impulsive action or a saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. The hard part about that is the wrong impression that people get from that mistakes really sticks to you. Even when your intentions are good, a slip up could really give you a bad image. When that happens, it is difficult to shake off and takes a long time to do so.

A lot of times, I wish people would get to know me better. I know a one-sided deal and I also have to meet people half-way for that to happen. I know this is going to take a lot of work because I'm loner and don't express myself much. But even a loner knows that no man is an island and will have to interact with others eventually. In the end, all I want is for people to know me better so they can see me for who I really am.

Cool Driving Chillout Tune And TV Soundtrack: Angela (Taxi Theme) By Bob James

I've said once and I'll still say it: There's nothing like a nice 24K song to chill-out at the end of a hard day. Apart from airing from Saturday to Sunday,24K also features new program called "Reel Tracks" hosted by Valentine which features classic tunes that were movie and television soundtracks. The good thing about that program, it reminds me that there were a lot of cool tunes that came out from television shows. One such show that had a good soundtrack was TAXI and the song was "Angela" by Bob James.

This was one of the funniest shows that I watched while I was growing up. Yet the best part for me was when the soundtrack was played at the beginning and end of the show. Like a lot of good songs in this blog, when you play it, it takes away all the stress brought about by the day. It's also a good night driving song when you simply cruise on the road and watch the bright lights go by. Even though the day was tough, the song makes you forget all the crap that happened.

I really can't thank the management of RT enough for reviving 24K back to the airwaves. Everytime it's 24K Weekend, my ears are glued to the station from Saturday morning to Sunday evening. It's probably the one of few things that give me pleasure these days. Each song played on this program is a real gem. Thank you RT and more power to you!!!

Great Song And Great Video: Wide River By Steve Miller Band

With all the ruckus that happened in the past two weeks, me and my parents definitely needs some space to breathe. The fact that the jerk who caused all this is now playing burglar is really getting to my nerves. As always, my only solace is 99.5 rt's 24K Weekend where the songs help take the stress and the years away with all the those great and rare songs from the past. Though I commend that program for playing alot of rare songs, there are still a lot of good songs that need to aired for people to listen to. One such song is from the Steve Miller Band called "Wide River".

This is one of those great songs from the 90's that time forgot. This is such a shame cause it's such great good that can be played on any occasion. Whether having a brew with your buds or just cruising down the highway and singing along to it. The video is just as great with a photographer taking pictures of horses making their way across the river just before the break of dawn. Now that's a cool song and a cool video all rolled in one.

As I've said before, my advice for each generation is to preserve whatever great songs that you hear in your generation. Don't be surprise if one day you don't hear them anymore. Such great songs deserve a place in 24K especially when nobody plays them anymore and they are in peril of disappearing into oblivion. They are just too good to fade away. They are denifitely 24K cause they're worth they're weight in gold!

Wide River @ Yahoo! Video

Don't See Eye To Eye : Father And Son By Cat Stevens

Well it'll soon be Father's Day and just like we honor our mothers on Mother's Day, we do the same for our fathers on that day. It's fact that when a father has a son, we is very overjoyed because now there is someone who will carry on the family name who he can carve into his image. Sometimes, however, things get bumpy when the son has plans of his own and it gets worse when those plans go against everything the father believes in. The result could be a very bad shoutfest followed by a long grudge where both parties aren't speaking. Cat Steven's song "Father And Son" describes the usual banging of heads between father and son very eloquently.

It's sad when fathers and sons don't see eye to eye and it's even worse when a rift develops from it. The song was cool when he changes the tone of his voice from father to son and explains both sides in this song. As a son, I know how it feels to have my dreams criticized and ridiculed, especially when I really want to achieve it. As caretaker of my nephews and nieces which is the same as parent, I have a responsibility to tell them if they are doing the right thing or making a big mistake. Though both have their good points, it gets lost when the conflicts escalates and that is very sad.

Conflicts between father and son can be solved if both would just the good side of each is trying to say. From there, they can then find compromise or better yet a solution to that gap that keeps them from agreeing with each other. The best way to avoid conflicts between a son and a father is to always be with your son and know him fully. That way they can fully and understand each other and get a long better. Knowing, understanding and respect between father and son is something every father and son should on everyday of their lives. This is because they are a part of each other.

Suck It Up Kid: Estudyante Blues By Freddie Aguilar

In one of my blog entries, I mentioned a time in my life when I had to transfer less prestigious school because I couldn't with the environment in that "posh" school. Because of I always had to be careful of my studies that failure became a stigma for me. During my school years till finishing college, I always had to show that I could hack it and not fail in studies lest I relieve that dark day when I was cast out. When I see blatantly some students take their studies for granted and causing their parents a lot of grief, it really makes me mad. When I hear Freddie Aguilar's song "Estudyante Blues", I tell the character in that song "Suck it up kid"!

When I was growing up, our fortunes were always in the extreme: some days, we were up and some days were down. The hard part about that failure was that I had to prove myself to my family again and again. A lot of times, their word was law and if they were strict, it was because they just wanted us to be responsible and I understood even with all the pressure growing up. Because of that I developed a strong work ethic and even though we partied a lot, I was to keep my grades safe. Because times were a bit difficult, I didn't complain when they yelled because deep inside they were just tired and the least that I could was just do my best and stay out of trouble.

These days, a lot of kids take a lot for granted. It's not just peer pressure, but also the distraction brought about by technology that's causing not only poor academic performance among kids, but bad behavior as well. Sometimes I think parents are too lenient with their children and they don't take time to talk to them about what's really important. I think it's time to lay the law down on kids like these. They should responsibility and be aware of what they're parents go through everyday just to give them what they need, let alone want. Hopefully, they'll listen realize what their parents are going through and if not and they don't like what they hear well tough luck kid; shape up or ship out!

Always With Respect: Respect By Aretha Franklin

You know nobody's perfect because there'll be times when you bang heads with your relatives, especially your parents. You got your beliefs and they got theirs and the sad part about is that sometimes conflict can arise from that. Be that as it may, never forget that even though you have a right to voice your side, you should always do so with respect. Without it, even if you have valid points, it becomes meaningless. That's the lesson that I learned a long time ago and when I hear Aretha Franklin's song "Respect", it helps me remember that lesson.

Respect for parents is an important value regardless of race or religion, etc. No matter how wrong or strict our parents are, we still owe them a lot. Still trying to stand up for your beliefs is also the right of every individual. The problem is how we present our argument without ending hating each other. What is important is that you present your case politely and calmly. Here their side when you are done and try to find some middle ground from there because their should be compromise from both sides for their to be a solution.

What is important is that no matter the result is, the repect is always there. It's a fact of life that parents are sometimes hard to understand. By the time you are a full fledged adult, you should know what makes them tick. You can never change them but you can find a way to agree with them and get your point through at the same time. Just remember respect first and for most because without, you'll always end up losing not only your case but also their respect as well.

Respect - Aretha FRANKLIN (live) 1967
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Now Get!: Black Cow By Steely Dan

Right now last Friday's incident still remains vividly in my memory. It pisses when you're tired from work and about to chill out when all of a sudden somebody breaks the calm of the night. What really pisses me off most is the fact that those who shouldn't be imposing are the ones imposing! Just when I thought things would calm down a bit, here we go again and this my folks have just about had it. When I think of the boot treatment, I suddenly remember the song "Black Cow" by Steely Dan.

One thing I learned during those dark years is that ordeals like that really make learn just where you stand and the consequences overstepping your bonds could catastrophic. Sometimes people who are hospitable and kind often are rewarded with manipulation and abuse in their own roof. Jerks who do the abuse don't realize it until they turn these people inside-out. When that happens, don't surprise if these people suddenly toss you out to the streets. When that happens, where's your high and mighty throne now.

In the end, what I learned from this is know your place. There's a limit to people's tolerance and when the last breaks the camel's back, that camel is going to kick your ass. If you want your own rules to be followed, then go find your own place. This especially true when you're not doing anything and causing more problems. When that happens, take your black cow and get out of here!!!

If You Wanna Go, Just Go!: Go Your Own Way By Fleetwood Mac

What happened a couple of nights ago still casts a dark shadow on this house. After all the emotional chaos that's been happening in the last two years, this the last thing that anyone needs. Still, if it doesn't doesn't work out, then best to go where you feel things are more suited to your taste. Just remember that bonds and respect should be there cause if you're going to go, go clean. I guess that's the reason why I feel sad when I hear the song "Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac.

For some reason, maintaining the bond in this family is very important to me now more than ever. I know we're at that stage where we should branch out and have our own lives. What is important is that no matter what we do or where we go, the bond is there and is always strong. That night caused another break in the still fragile bond that was heavily damaged in the past few years. Because of that lines crossed and respect has been violated which saddens and angered those who were affected by some selfish jerk's disrespectfully foul act and his harlot spy.

Right now those in this house have decided that if that jerk doesn't do what we told him to get out of this house. Although I am a flawed individual who is still picking up the pieces of his pathetic life, I will not allow this shameful act to go unnoticed, let alone unpunished! My massage for him is you either get rid of that trash that caused this message and apologize to the person you shamed or stay where you are!!!! If you try to force yourself and those maggots with you, somebody's gonna get it. Enough is enough because if you choose to break these bonds, you forfeit your affiliation to this house and its members so go your own way!!!

Education Begins At Home: Teach Your Children Well By Crosby, Stills , Nash And Young

Last week, class opened for the country's public school and this week private school will officially begin classes as well. By this time, school teachers and officials already have lesson plans and materials ready for another of preparing students for reality. I'm not surprised if each and every single teacher or school staff is going to either say a long prayer or take a long nap to steel themselves for the long year ahead. Yet as the teaching person make their preparations for the school, I do so hope that parents are now doing the same thing because education actually starts at home. Everytime I hear the song, "Teach Your Children Well" by Crosby, Stills , Nash And Young, it reminds me that we lay the groundwork as to how they will take to learning.

As I've said in a previous entry, motivation starts with parents and being a former teacher, I've seen how difficult a task that can be. Nevertheless, parents should start orienting their children on the basics like the alphabet and numbers. More importantly, they should instill in them the importance of learning and how it can affect their future. Another important thing that parents should start teaching them is time management and discipline. When it's study and when it's time to play becase too little of the former and too much of the later, don't surprise if you're paying for a summer classes or a repeat of a school year or worse shop around for another school.

Parents are the ones who are responsible for how their children cope with the academic world and they better do it right. The academic is just practice for the harsh realities of life. If they do they're prep work right, then it's less stress for everyone involved and it ensures a good future for your child. It is the parent's responsibility to see to it that their children are studying and doing well in class. No matter what you say, education begins at home

Chilling Out In The Rain: I Wish It Would Rain Down " By Phil Collins And Eric Clapton

Last night was one of the worst nights I ever had. Instead of getting a little RNR, I find the whole house in an uproar, leaving everyone in a terribly bad mood. The fact that it was raining heavy and the kitchen ceiling was leaking didn't help as I spent the night mopping just to clean the floor and to take the stress out of my system. When I hear the rain fall, I wish it would wash away all of the crap that happened then maybe I'd appreciate the downpour. When I remember the song "I Wish It Would Rain Down" by Phil Collins and Eric Clapton, I'd like to think of rain as a healing tool rather than a wet annoyance.

When things heat up, there's nothing like a 24K song to cool down. It's better than Prozac. I remember the times when a cool shower brought out the smiles in people's faces. Everyone went out and simply had fun in the rain as poured down after a hot day. When we had our fill of getting wet, we'd dry ourselves off and relax and chill out for the rest of the day. It sure takes me back to happier times.

After last night, I really long for those stress-free days. It's bad enough that I have to deal with a lot of things and this crap hits all of us out of the blue. You know of these days when comes pouring, I'm gonna go outside and soak myself up in it and have fun. I don't care if I fool doing it cause if it feels good, why not. After the way things are, I really wish a healing rain shower would pour over me cause I could sure use a healing shower.

"I Wish It Would Rain Down" Phil Collins
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A Lot Of Rain: It's Raining Again By Supertramp

Well it's the rainy season again. Summer really ended quick as the dark clouds starts to form, the winds get a little colder and the smell of water fills the air. Time to break out the umbrellas, jacket and boots to avoid getting wet. Apart from the constant downpour, this sure is going to be an emotional downer. With the heavy rains and the negative vibes that go along with it, I remember Supertramp's remake of the song "It's Raining Again".

Tonight really tested my patience as I was trying to make my way home. First it rained like buckets. Then traffic froze which was getting on my nerves because I promised my mother that I would be home early to take her to church. Despite coming home late and getting wet, we managed to attend mass even if it had already started. Man, this downpour pissed me off so much, I thought that it was the devil who made it rain.

I guess this is a metaphor for test one has to endure just see if a person will keep a promise. Well I did even if I was tired to boot. It's funny how some situations make you feel like you're being tested. Then again life is full of trials that we have to face no matter how bad the situation looks. One thing for sure, I would let no rain stop me from fulfilling my promise so there!!!

Start Of School Blues/Don't Need No Inductrination Or Poor Quality Education: We Don't Need No Education By Pink Floyd

With the all the problems that I've been having with the internet that I forgot this week is the first week of school. I bet that a lot of kids are crying "Not Again" on their way to school. When we were younger, the first day of school was the worst day for a kid after two and half months of freedom. Nevertheless, education is still important as means to better future but the problem is the quality of education given to our children is so poor that they can't apply what they learn outside the classroom. For me, when the first day of school came, I would listen to Pink Floyd's song "We Don't Need No Education".

Even though we'd rather have an extension of even a few days, when it was time to go, it's time. Still, kids these should count themselves lucky because teachers now try to reach out to their students in an effort to get them motivated. Back in my days, the teachers were sadist who punished their students for the sheer joy of it and if you didn't meet their expectations, you can bet that you're headed for remedial, summer class or worst a repeat of another year. The problem today is that all the good teachers are now leaving because their salaries can barely make ends meet. Because of this, good teachers, let alone a good school is a hard find.

As a former teacher, try look into the school's back ground starting if it is accredited by DepEd. Also make inquiries regarding the type of students who are enrolled in the school and check out the teachers who are in charge of classes if they are certified to teach and most importantly if they use new techniques in teaching that motivate kids to learn. Motivating kids to study is important,especially in these hard times. That and their determination will get them through life.

It Does Matters: Money Changes Everything By Cyndi Lauper

As I have blogged before, this global recession is hell on everybody. People getting laid off are now faced with bleak prospects on how to cope with everyday demands. For those of us who want to live a simple life are now living the frugal life because what was once enough can now make ends meet now. When times go bad, it really changes everything. When I hear Cyndi Lauper's song "Money Changes Everything", it reminds of how money really changes everything about how we live.

All I wanted was to live my dreams in a simple and quiet life. These days I'll be glad to settle for quiet and everytime, I hear talk about increase in the bills,I really get depressed. I realize too late that the simple life is also the frugal life and that is so true when you have to take care of other people. You'll be lucky if once you give all, things quiet down. Unfortunately, there are times when somethings strikes out from the blue and the balance has collapsed.

These days people are doing all that they can to make ends meet, let alone earn a little extra to get back what they have lost. Whether it's a part time jobs, selling commodities, even using the internet for web design, pro-blogging and online writing or getting another job or going abroad, people are doing all that they can to make ends meet. The sad part is that even if you do accumulate a lot of cash, you'd be too bone-tired to spend it or it just goes to paying all the bills. It stinks but as much as we want to live our ideal life, reality really hits us hard. In the end, money does matter, but just don't let it be the most important thing in life.

Strange Days Indeed: Nobody Told Me By John Lennon

When you're a kid, everyday was a breeze as all you do is eat, watch t.v. and sleep. All that time you're oblivious to everything around you. As you grow older, things get a little different. Things get complicated and before you know it, your day gets piled up with problems and unexpected development, leaving you full of stress and wondering what happened. Life is just full of surprises ain't it. When I hear that saying I remember John Lennon's song "Nobody Told Me".

A lot of times, somebody or something throws a wrench in the machine and stops its function. When that happens, all chaos breaks loose. This is where you fight the urge to panic and think of something to do. It's not easy though because you were caught by surprise, your thoughts are all scattered and try to get yourself together. If you were able to surpass this sudden development then good for you. Nevertheless, it still stinks when days like these happen.

Handling days like these is something you have to learn to anticipate and cope with on your own. You can read all the books and attend all the lectures on preparedness, but when it hit you, your mental jaw better be tough cause it's long day. I remember what my Karate teacher told me about being relaxed but alert and I'm trying to apply that to steel myself for these crazy days which are happening more frequently. I just hope I able to handle them because from the way things are, they're going to occur more frequently. These are indeed strange days and I'll do my best to deal with them even if nobody told about them.

John Lennon - Nobody Told Me
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