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Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Some people just can't keep their hands to themselves. It's either they touch things that shouldn't be touched or they take things that shouldn't be taken. Thieves or robbers are what people call them. Since the ancient times these people have been existing and now in present time they are becoming more and more rampant. Robbery and stealing are rampant on the streets and even at residential areas but mostly it is evident in hotels. It does sound strange but it is true. Although thugs are blamed for most of the robberies committed on the streets, they are not blamed for the losses in hotels. Believe it or not the hotel customers are the ones who steal from the hotel itself. They say that they keep things as souvenirs but then why do they try so hard not to get noticed by hotel personnel? They pay for the accommodations and it is understandable that they want something in return but is excellent service not enough? To be frank, I even heard rumors that someone in our vicinity stole a Renaissance hotel flag. That person even boasted that if he had enough strength, he could have stolen the display flagpole. It sounds disturbing to hear people boast about things that are shameful. Worst thing that could and often happens is that other people try to imitate to earn the respect or attention of the yard. Whether it's from stealing candies from babies or stealing multi-million accounts, these things are not supposed to be done. Some people just don't understand or refuse to understand this thought of respecting property and honesty. Some hate thieves but they become thieves also in their own way. The difference lies in the fact that they are only hidden, like wolves hiding in a sheep's clothing. It is somewhat disgusting but things like this happen whether we like it or not.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 29, 2009
Different kinds of celebrations come in different places, may it be parties, birthdays or weddings. There are always ways where we celebrate the joys of life. We share common happy experience with family members, relatives and close friends in these celebrations. It makes us realize that we have someone else in the world that experiences the joy that we experience. This is our toast to life when we go together and convene in one place. Of course, no celebration is complete without motifs and decorations. They put accent to our activities. The attractive colors and the wonderful designs catch everybody's attention to stop and gaze at the designs of the place. This transports one's mind to a different realm, complete with a new experience and new mood. This is surely an amazing response of the mind. One of the remarkable designs that can add to the mood of your venue is street pole banners. The huge sizes of these decorations are something that no one can surely miss. Street pole banners are essentially useful if venues for your occasions are wide and spacious. It is because they create the feeling of abounding space to your venue. If you use it in venues having inadequate space, they produce unpleasant effects instead of pleasing your guests. They give the impression that your place is smaller than it already is. Secondly, the street pole banners if unused properly make your guest uneasy and irritable. This is a result that you never wish to achieve when you decorate your functions and affairs.
by: The Flagman
Friday, June 26, 2009
Browsing through a famous social networking site made me discover how I have a lot of friends which are already staying in Singapore. No, they are not only random cyberspace acquaintances; I am talking about friends who I met in high school. There are even some childhood friends who I have not seen for about a decade now. All of them are, just as I am, taking up college in some of the world's best schools in Singapore. Whenever we talk about it, they are evidently proud to be studying in a beautiful and successful country. Singapore is an island city state in Southeast Asia. Being in the southern edge of the Malayan Peninsula, the country relishes the typical tropical rainforest climate which its neighboring countries go through all year round. Without distinctive seasons, the country's beaches, theme parks, zoos among many attractions, draws tourists all year round. Not to mention the yearly influx of businessmen visiting the country and enjoying the sights and pleasures in the process. But Singapore's beauty does not only lie with the natural attractions. Dubbed as the cleanest city in the world, walking in the streets of this country is like walking in a big theme park where skyscrapers and neatly maintained roads are the attractions. The culture is also remarkable. Almost every citizen upholds utmost discipline. These attitudes are eventually passed on to tourists who learn to respect the country by following its rules tightly. These rules pay off in the end, by providing everyone a wonderful place to stay in. So for Asian students like me who dream of going to successful schools in successful cities, Singapore should top the list. Certainly, Singapore has a bright future. A future that is symbolized the flag of Singapore which features the moon and the stars, this beautiful country's flag shall one day reach the top of the world even beyond, as far as the stars.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 25, 2009
I've never been to a parish priest's office before until last week, when I had to secure a certification from the parish which a priest would have to fill up. Since I wasn't an orthodox parishioner, the priest knew little, if not nothing, of me. So he scheduled me for an interview, a talk which I would soon find as enlightening. The chief priest of the parish, young and very casual, welcomed me to his office. I was not surprised to see that his office had a very minimalistic nature to it. The amusing thing about it was the realization that parish priests had offices like a public official's office, except that the pictures and flags had a religious background as opposed to a political one. Instead of the president's portrait hanging on a wall and a world flag in the corner of the room, Pope Benedict's framed picture was on the wall, and a miniature Papal flag was a prominent piece on his table. The mood in the office was very serene, just as calm as our talk. We talked about a lot of things, mostly about me and my recent endeavors in life. Father Pepe, which name I knew not by any formal introduction but by the big nameplate on his table, seemed to be interested with my education and how I'm going through it more than anything else. During the duration of the talk, I thought that he might have seen the young him in me for he was always talking about his experiences when he was my age, and he used his stories to help me discern some of the forks in my life's road. After 20 minutes we ended our meaningful talk with a tight handshake. Right then and there, I realized that I was touched by Father Pepe, not only physically, but spiritually as well.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Out of extreme boredom, I thought of downloading kiddy games to fulfill my craving for quick and troublesome entertainment. I ended up downloading a game wherein you act like a doctor, diagnosing patients and sending them to the right department where they would then receive treatment. Although there was nothing much to do but read, click, and drag, the game offered me a glimpse of what it is like to be working in a hospital, helping patients that most often come in large quantities. It wasn't long until I got really good with the game. Anyway, this one was made for young kids, and I've been playing these types of games since I was young that I already know what to expect after every level I finish. Actually, I had the right guess when I anticipated how the bonus round would be like. I knew it was going to be the part where the mechanics would be as simple as to click as many things indicated by the game as possible. And it really turned out that way as the bonus round's rule was to collect as many Star of Life flags as I can. How I wish saving lives in reality was as easy as this. These games were actually the reason why I want to become a medical practitioner someday. Of course games like these show only the glamorous parts of being a medical worker, but there's something about the idea of spending your time helping others recover that attracts me to the job. And that's why I'm trying my best to get good grades so I won't have a hard time applying for med school. But until I get a degree, I'll be contented with these games. These Star of Life flags will always remind be that I'm a star in life and one day, I'll be saving lives.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
If you're feeling super lucky to the point that you've been dreaming about winning the lottery every night, there's only once place you should visit and that is Las Vegas, Nevada. Who knows, your luck might just get you somewhere between the filthy rich status, to being the next Bill Gates in terms of riches. Las Vegas is a Spanish phrase which means "The Meadows". And the name doesn't disappoint as this city is definitely a green pasture, only that there are no grasses to represent the potential of success. Instead there are endless blocks of skyscrapers that house some of the best casinos, restaurants and hotels in the whole world. When it comes to entertainment, no other city comes close to Las Vegas. And when it comes to big money stakes, this city offers everybody the chance to get rich the easy way. With casinos all over the place, all you need is some capital, calibrated guts, and a lot of good luck. And if ever you get the most out of your luck and win big in some big time casino, you never have to go far from Las Vegas to enjoy your riches. The state of Nevada has very livable cities. Also, being a liberal state, the laws in this part of the country aren't so tight compared to other states. For this, you might come to enjoy a lot of perks that are not present in other parts of the country. Perks such as undemanding marriage and divorce proceedings, legalized gambling, and deregulated entertainment. So when you're driving around the country crossing border after border, watch out for the flag of Nevada. Once you see it, stay within its borders for a while, and make sure you see that state flag every once in a while. Who knows, by the time you have to drive out of the state, you're in a different car filled with money. That's if you even consider moving out of the state at all.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 22, 2009
I am a big fan of RTS Games, that's short for Real Time Strategy Games. They are the type of games where you can fight your own computer's artificial intelligence, or your friends using virtual soldiers, tanks and some out of this world weaponry. I like them for the fact that you cannot only pretend that you are a general in the midst of the world's greatest battles, you also get to go back into time and recount historical battles as far as the ancient times. For this matter, I usually go for RTS games which recount Word War 1 and World War 2 as they offer a mix of modernity and antiquity. They are also rich in history, the type which we always witness in famous war documentaries and historical war movies. Amongst all the mission packs available for these strategy games, I prefer the missions that take place in the pacific, more than the ones in Europe and some parts of Asia. In a recent game I played, one of the objectives was to capture the island of Iwo Jima in the Pacific Ocean. This scenario is certainly one of the most famous battles World War 2 has ever seen, in fact up to now; the battle of Iwo Jima holds a special part of our consciousness. In fact there's this monument in Arlington, Virginia that immortalizes the special event when U.S. Marines finally raised the American Flag in Iwo Jima, when they finally took full control of the island from the Japanese soldiers. Truly, these games do not only give us the feeling of being a soldier who is not only fighting for survival, but is also fighting for liberty and honor -- forging history along the way. It brings us back to the time of our fathers, when raising the American Flag in an island was just as monumental as winning the war for America.
by: The Flagman
Friday, June 19, 2009
A friend once asked me why I write poems and essays that focus on everything bright and happy about the world. I wasn't surprised he asked that since during our college days, I would always prefer "happy" literature over the dramatic ones. When given a writing homework, I would also end up submitting pieces that revolved around the idea of the world as a paradise where all things are beaming and vibrant. So I told my friend that it was just my way of going about things. Optimistic sounding pieces make me feel calm and relaxed. As Anthony J. D'Angelo once said, "Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine." Well I don't only depend on good literature to keep me up and going and in stride with the challenges of life. I also love listening to feel good music, either the type that can lull me to sleep, or the ones that can make me tap my foot in a rhythmic groove. Aside from that, I also am fond of watching funny videos over the internet, and some comedy shows on the television. Almost everything I do has a tinge of a feel good beat to it, except for some serious moments. Anyway, before the sun shines, darkness is at its fullest. And sometimes, in order to be Mr. Brightside, somebody has to also experience gloom once in a while. Well, yes I can consider myself a Mr. Brightside for most of the time. My mission: to spread the feel good feeling whenever wherever. My weapon: my smile. As they say, a sincere smile is always contagious for it never fails to elicit a smile in return. For that, I might actually buy a lot of Smiley Face Flags. I'll erect these flags wherever I go. That way, I wouldn't be only bringing my own sunshine. I also get to leave it for everyone to see.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 18, 2009
I never realized how I would be missing college until my sister told me that she was going to Clemson in a few weeks time to enroll. I didn't think twice about volunteering to accompany her there. I haven't seen my dear and beloved Alma Mater since I graduated. That's about five long years ago. And I will be extraordinarily glad to introduce my sister to what was once my home for four years. I don't have any idea on what to expect on my return to Clemson. It's not like I will be treated emphatically by the university staff on my return, I am not expecting any balloons or confetti at all. But to me, returning to this prestigious institution which is a big part of my life now will be nothing short of special. I reckon the feeling would be like returning to our old house where I spent my growing up years; the feeling that would usually be greeted with tears. It will surely give me a deep feeling of nostalgia, for all the things the school gave me. During my stay which lasted for almost five years, I had good grades which proved to be a vital part of my current success in my career. I achieved remarkable grades while I regularly played for the Clemson Tigers Soccer Team. I also did attend extracurricular activities that took me from one state to another. Those four years were the best moments of my youth. More than that, I'll cherish the wonderful people I've met along the way the most; people who continue to play a big part of my life. Come to think of it, I never really kept anything that reminded me of college. Except for friends, memories, and one Clemson college flag I got during my varsity years. That beautiful flag reminds me how I was once a Tiger, and will always be a Tiger in life.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Perhaps many have seen movie ceremonies and awards night being held in glamorous events and locations, with the usual red carpet rolled over from the unloading area by the road, up towards the main entrance of the theatre. This is where movie stars walk their parade while being marveled upon by movie fans and critics. Everything along the pathway is supposed to be glamorous and in style. From the security line which is covered in red velvet instead of the usual yellow tarpaulin strip used in commercial areas, even the table used by the movie producers, sponsors, and registration booths are covered in fashion. No tables would be justly placed along the walk if there were no custom table banners covering them. These banners are typically drapes with logos and banners imprinted on them. Sponsors and producer companies have their own registered logo as part of the custom table banner design allocated on an assigned table. These banners are their means of identifying themselves with the prestigious event. When seen on television, these tables may be obscured in the background, but they serve their purpose very well, as if not for them, there wouldn't be any place for movie stars and well known invited guests to stop over and have their press statement or registration before getting inside the theatre. Having one of these custom table banners would surely be a pricey collection, but unfortunately are kept well protected by the very institutions owning the logo on each banner. Still, it would be possible to have one of your own imitation table banners by contacting your nearest custom design flag shop and ask for their services. Having one of these banners may not bring you anywhere near the actual main event of movie awards nights, but it could bring your imagination and feeling a little step closer in pretending to be a star as you sit by our table covered with this.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Our existence in this world is always dictated with the universal goodness that is in each one of us, and the humanistic survival instinct which sometimes jeopardizes the concept of goodness itself. This paradox has created different views on what should morally be right and wrong. Actions viewed as wrong are sometimes justified as having a good outcome. Some would argue that the ends do not justify the means and should therefore just reside on what is ethically correct. However, this lack of justice for the oppressed is not anywhere near goodness. Martyrdom is the answer to such injustice to give a little bit of pacification. Time and the never ending pursuit of power and security have brought people clashing and crashing against one another. Wars have exploded here and there that have caused millions of lives already. Historical accounts would dictate a similar trend in conflicts wherein wars deplete each other's resources and would settle for a truce, and perhaps forge new alliances, but only to erupt again in another form of battle. Perhaps that is how human existence would be. There would always be a shift from war to peace and then back again. Life for us humans is a constant shift of ups and downs, lefts and rights, which we try to place in the middle of everything. Nevertheless, there are some peace loving citizens who would gladly uphold an extremist ideal of a global peace flag, complete with a dove carrying a laurel leaf. These individuals are the hopefuls and idealists of today's world who believe in a solid state euphoria of peace and prosperity among all nations. Even if it is far from what is in reality, it is still good that there is a goal of working out ways to let the white dove fly eternally among all people of all races.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 15, 2009
Golf has been a form of recreational game dating back centuries ago, when primitive methods were still employed. During that time, there were no defined clubs. There was only one kind, the driver club made of hard wood. The golf ball that was used that time didn't have any pits, it was just a solid wooden ball used which sometimes shattered after countless whacks and smashes by the club and obstacles. Furthermore, there were not any golf flags or custom golf flags for that sort used. Nowadays, the game has been developed into a sport, though not of Olympic standards, as it was said to be too casual and non-engaging. It was difficult to create a niche for golf in Olympic committee gatherings because it was too long to conduct. With 18 holes, 9 in front, and 9 back, it was difficult to hold a sporting event and it was decided that the sport had to be conducted in its own tournament schemes. The main objective of golf is to hit the ball with your club and try to shoot it in a very small hole in the ground situated hundred of yards away. This of course should be done with the least number of strokes, and without encountering too much environmental obstacles such as sand traps, artificial ponds, and rough areas. To help golfers seek out their targets, custom golf flags are erected in the middle of the hole for visibility even at great distances. These flags have poles which still allow the golf ball to fit perfectly inside from any angle. Some designs have been created for some personalities and celebrities in the golfing world, mostly for advertising purposes. Nevertheless, the usual golf flag used has a white triangular banner, which would perfectly contrast the green, brown, yellowish or bluish background of grass, ground, sand or water, respectively. Golfing is a sport mastered with great control of the swing and power as well. Practice may not make perfect shots, but would definitely give permanent basics of good golf playing.
by: The Flagman
Friday, June 12, 2009
Food is indispensable for everyone and a necessity needed by humans and animals alike. As for animals, food is earned by hunting or scavenging while for a human, he needs to cook or order it just so he can eat. As the highest form amongst all of the creations in this world, we humans enjoy the simplicity of life. Most of us don't need to hunt for food, however I do admit there are some scavengers in our society. But amidst all the human economic conditions, living the urban or rural life is still easier than living in the wild. Speaking of food, people have varied preferences. Some would go for food that satisfy their discriminating palates while other would go for ones that will just fill their hungry stomachs. Today, most people prefer pizza and they often go to Pizza Hut. Yes, Pizza Hut! The fast food chain that can be found almost everywhere you go. Whenever we go to shopping malls, we often see a Pizza Hut flag somewhere and next to it is ofcourse the store itself. Sometimes when you're just strolling around the mall you may find these Pizza Hut flags together an enticing offer to buy one and take one free. Pizza lovers from everywhere patronize Pizza Hut as they produce undeniably delicious and mouth-watering pizza recipes. For the fact that it soothes the palate and fills the stomach, it isn't hard to give in to the craving to grab a slice with a matching Coke or Pepsi soda to give yourself a delightful snack.
The reason why people choose pizza over other meal is because it's amazingly delicious and always served hot and fresh out of the pan. Pizza Hut is just one of the many pizza brands from the world over so what if you could taste all the pizza served around the globe coupled with spaghetti and lasagna? Certainly, that would be a fabulous treat for you and the whole family.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Whenever we see men at work danger flags, they clearly tell us that road and highway repairs or construction are being done on a particular area. We know, too, that these developments result to every motorist's nightmare-- traffic jams. This is the reason why cab drivers aren't always happy when they pass through construction area. Before the construction, all you can hear from people are complaints and rants. It is ironic that now as work is being done, dissatisfied people still can't help themselves from complaining too much. It is known that the traffic jams cause people to be irate and irrational especially if they are about to go to a meeting or an interview. Sometimes they seize the cab driver and in return the drivers hate the things causing the congestion like road construction, repair equipment and those helpless danger flags that could someday save their lives on the street.
Bad attitude emanating from people often results into bad moments. It can lead to a fight and causing another person to feel terrible heartaches. Well, in America most of these so called irate attitudes and bad temper often unleash when traffic congestion turns up. The disclosure of violent human instincts often comes out on streets, the congested streets of America. I've seen people fight over position to the point that they come out of their cars and start whacking each other with fists. Sometimes the trouble starts because of loud horns which only add up to noise pollution causing tempers to flare. I guess the answers to this problem are respect, patience and getting ahead of time. Respect for other drivers ahead of you and knowing your place on the streets will really help. Patience and keeping heads cool and not get into the pressure are sure important, too. Lastly, getting ahead of time will keep us from being stuck in traffic jams and give us a little more breathing space if ever we get stuck. Let's just keep in mind these things to make life on the street a lot more easier.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Every second Sunday of May, the whole world celebrates an occasion for this special person. She is someone who sometimes gives us the worst nag. But oftentimes, she gives us the best care. She is no one else but Mom. Once in a year we celebrate and thank our mothers for their warmth and love. Some people would give cards and send kisses to their mom though a few just don't seem to care. For entrepreneurs, this could be a perfect time for business. Flowers are always a favorite at this time of the year. Since the most wouldn't want to be cheesy, they rather would give flowers and a heartfelt smile then walk away. Next on the list are greeting cards. Custom made cards for moms are a classic especially if they come from kids age 8 to 10. Lastly, but not the least are Mother's day seasonal flags. They cost a little but can definitely melt a mother's heart. Normally we see these flags hung on the malls every time there is an occasion but they don't mean anything unless they are personalized. Well, to think of it, getting a custom flag that says, "I Love You Mom!" with her name on it would really mean a lot especially if it's a surprise. Imagine the joy on mom's face as she feels utmost bliss because of your thoughtfulness.
Undeniably, the simple things can give the greatest joy. If you plan on giving stuff to your mom, even a simple thank you or a heartfelt poem would do. Surely, moms are the best persons in the world and they're the most flexible ones, too. They can be your best friend, your best ally and most of all, they can be as they are as mothers give you all the care and love in the world.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Don't we all love stars and popular personas? Some even love politicians to the extent that they would put themselves in front of the limousine just to get that most coveted car flag. Well, you can't blame these people. What if the limousine was of the United States President Barack Obama? I am pretty sure that out of five American citizens, four of them, if not five would like to get that flag installed on the car. In some countries that have street festivals, kids and grown-ups alike would strive hard to get the autograph or get a simple souvenir from their so called "idols". Looking into a much closer example, we will try sports. Normally, superstars of the NBA or NFL would be swarmed by fans and in this commotion, all you see are grown-ups or teens battling for those precious autographs. What we don't see are kids thriving hard to get the autographs of their idol. Some kids do get hurt, bruised and sometimes stepped on. But to kids themselves, it doesn't matter at all as long as they get the autograph. Before you know it, they're out chasing the limousines of those superstars just to get their autograph. Often times, they just settle for car flags visibly installed on car rears.
It is actually funny and troublesome how far people would go for those 15 minutes of fame or for that priceless sign on a poster or a ball. Some almost get hit by cars but they don't mind as long as they get what they want. True, there are no answers to a human's hunger for luxury or pleasure. It is just plain bottomless like dark pits. Whether it be signatures that don't mean a lot or custom flags that would wither through time, let's not give in to the risks that would give us in exchange for only a moment of pleasure.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 8, 2009
When I was in college, the most awaited event after the winter break was the school's annual Spring Dance festival. The festival will be held for a day one week after the winter break ends. It is such a fun and lively event that even the lord of the nerds is excited for it. The spring dance is obviously all about dancing, it is a day spent for dancing competitions and presentations by various school departments. Be it with duets, quartets or groups, it sure is a time when the stage is filled with the fresh and lively vibe of spring. This annual event is certainly one of the reasons why I think my school is the best. During my sophomore year, I finally got the nerve to try out for the spring dance group competition, but sadly I was rejected by our department choreographer saying that I was too short. So I directed my attention to other means in which I can help with the event, I applied as a volunteer for the decorations and props committee. Luckily, they could always use one more of a helping hand and they assigned me to the street banners and streamers that should be placed all over the campus activity grounds. It sure was a lot of work hanging those banners, but it all paid off since the result was astounding. The walkway lightpost that leads to the school's main entrance was ornamented with attractive spring banners and the grounds where the event will be held were made livelier with wonderful pennant streamers. The rest of the decorations also looked good including the stage. Even though I didn't get to compete on that event, I still felt proud of myself. I felt that way because even though I was rejected for the competitions, in some other way I was still able to help make the event successful. And that was one of the life lessons I learned during college. If you want to really help, there is no such thing as the only way.
by: The Flagman
Friday, June 5, 2009
I went to Japan a couple of years ago and it had been an amazing trip. What's more amazing is that it had been quite social. You see, while a lot of people go there to see Tokyo and the most up-to-date technologies it presents, I went there for an enriching and literary sojourn. I was one of the lucky members of an organization sent to Japan to study the rich and resonant culture of the Japanese. I landed in Japan at the same time the cherry blossoms were at their loveliest: charming trees with a million little flowers of soft pink called sakura in Japanese - one of the best sights in the world indeed. From Tokyo, I travelled to the countryside where the culture was just like as it was many, many years ago. I lived with a foster family who welcomed me with the warmest of all welcomes. My first day at the local school dawned and I was nothing but anxious. For how in the world would my classmates and teachers understand me? Or worse, how will I understand them? My okasa prepared a special bento box for me which she lovingly settled inside my rucksack. I bowed and walked my way to school. It was a bit cloudy that day, but even the clouds couldn't conceal the magnificence of the place. I was in awe. The school building was relatively small, settled in a slightly elevated terrain. To me it looked amazing. The country's red-and-white flag danced along with the trees to the chilly wind. Students whose cheeks were as red as the huge dot on the Japanese flag walked past from every direction in their uniforms that were too cute for an alien like me. Little kids were starting the day with games and the teenaged ones with fresh gossip.
It had been hard to understand their modest English speaking skills, but I greatly appreciated them for the effort nonetheless. During my entire stay, I have learned heaps: how to deal with people of another culture, how to respect another nations traditions and everything about Japan Well, almost. It had been a challenging and testing trip, and yes I didn't get to take a tour around the country capital, but I sure went home with a smile.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 4, 2009
It was a Sunday many years ago when my cousin first brought home a girlfriend. He was in medical school and was practically about to graduate after more than a decade in there. He met her in a club, and later admitted she was an entertainer in Japan. So that will explain the monthly chocolates and postcards we received on our front door, not to mention the white and red replica flags and stickers. I was in college myself then, and whenever the girl was in the house I opted to get out and to not go back until I was ready to slumber. She liked walking around the small house in her underwear, see. Sometimes in Japan flag prints. But I did not like that. We weren't raised like that. My cousin made me promise to not tell anybody about the girl she was seeing. You had to be educated to be welcomed in the family.
When I was away at school, they'd stay indoors and do God only knows what. One day I arrived to a heated conversation inside. My meticulous aunt had paid a surprise visit. I was scared I might be dragged into the mess. I kept silent the entire time because my cousin made me swear, but I knew I was in a bigger mess for not saying anything at all. My aunt phoned her sister, my cousin's mother. And from there things were just blown out of proportion. We found out the girl was already carrying my cousin's child. What's more, we learned that my cousin had long dropped out from med school, utterly blowing apart the world his parents had built for him. He was sent home to the province and was forced to leave the girl. But a few months before she gave birth, the woman flew to our province as well. The family had no choice but to take her in. She was broke and she was pregnant with the poor child that carried our blood in his veins. Seven years later and they are the picture of a perfect, happy family. My cousin never turned out to be a doctor, but he's doing well as a medical representative. The woman is also well-accepted by the entire family now. We had been very judgmental. She is a good person, she's a good wife, and more importantly, a great mother to their two sons.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
For some time now, my job as a painter allowed me to visit the luxurious homes of the rich and famous. And if there is one common thing about their houses which awed me , it is their gardens. I usually do my job using their sophisticated gardens as my background, that's why I often stroll in their huge lawn to find the perfect place to be their background on the portrait. The gardens I saw were far from ordinary. All were huge and was no doubt intricately planned and designed. One of the garden that just took my breath away was owned by a wealthy real estate mogul, his garden could've measured to up to one acre, it is a mix of an English and Japanese inspired garden which features lots of cherry blossoms, a huge elaborate fish pond, two fountains, various selections of life-size statues, and of course ornamental flowers of various kinds such as roses, tulips and daffodils. The garden also features a huge lawn which was decorated only with feather flags that gracefully sways to where the wind blows.
There was so many good places for a background on that garden that I literally spent to almost a day in contemplating on where should my backdrop be. At the end, I finally found the perfect place to be my subjects' background. The place was on an area of the garden where the precious blue roses were planted. There was also a nearly destroyed, moss covered wall which was accented with a family crest flag on the place which makes it even more classy. That garden was indeed one of a kind, it presented the elegance of nature flawlessly. Its beguiling aura will surely entice anyone, and the fresh scent given off by the plants will no doubt ease a long day's stress. A whole afternoon spent strolling on that garden will certainly be not a waste of time. And if given the chance, I will definitely go back to see that lush garden.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Since the beginning of time, we have used symbols to distinguish our group from the others. During the medieval era, families used family crests to identify their family from other families. The monarchy used crest, usually embedded on a banner to symbolize their kingdom. On the case of religion, Christians makes use of the cross to symbolize their faith. The Islam utilized the crescent moon and the star to represent their faith as well. Even in politics, symbols are widely employed. In the Unites States, both the Democrats and Republicans use animal symbols to represent their faction, an elephant for the Democratic party and a horse for the Republican party. Small factions of people also utilize symbols to represent themselves. An example would be the LGBT group which uses the Pride flag to be a sign of their group. Symbols come in many form, it may come as a jewelry, an artifact or as a flag. Today, the most popular kind of symbol in the world is a nation's flag. They come in various shapes and sizes, in which the most common is the rectangular shaped flag. Also, the symbols embedded unto a flag range from simple to complicated. And those marks are the representation of the nation's history, religion, political stand, and geographical diversity. For the flag of the Republic of the Philippines for instance, it is designed with three stars which symbolize the three major archipelagos of the nation and a sun which has eight rays representing the eight provinces which led the rebellion during the spanish rule. Red and blue colors are also present on the flag which depict the nation's political state, the blue part signifies peace, patriotism and justice. And if the nation is at war, the flag would be raised with the red part up which symbolizes valor and the blood spit for freedom.
Indeed the use of symbols particularly the flag is a worldwide culture. Its uses have also evolved, aside from identifying one's group or race it has also become a tool to raise the people's morale in times of hardships. The flag certainly is more than just a piece of clothing, it has become a symbol for everyone under it, something to hold on to and protect.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 1, 2009
Netherlands is an interesting country. Like many other countries in Europe, it is a seat of marvelous artists and fascinating old world structures. And being one of the parliamentary democracies, the Netherlands in a sense is a modern country from its very constitutional foundation. This country is traditionally known for its elegant tulips, windmills, clogs or wooden shoes, delftware, gouda potteries, and bikes. And just recently, Netherlands has been also widely known for its social tolerance because of its liberal policies towards drugs, prostitution, homosexuality, and euthanasia. Along with that, although the Netherlands is composed mostly of Catholics, it is one of the most secular nations in the world wherein less than 20% of the population visits the church frequently. A religious person may think that this country is somewhat in misery since it clearly lacks or ignores the moral guidance of religion. But interestingly enough, Netherlands is one of the most successful countries in the world today. At present, it ranks 14th place in world happiness rankings. It is also at the 13th spot in the Mercer Quality of Living Index. Furthermore, in 2008, its capital city Amsterdam was hailed as the best city to live in. And lastly, this nation ranks as number 15 in world competitive ranking. The facts presented shows how successful the Netherlands is as a nation and how happy the people are under the Netherlands flag.
Netherlands truly is an interesting country. It's a country where the old values and traditions are flawlessly combined with the new ones. It also shows how a liberal policy should be made and how this policies could benefit the country. This nation truly is a model of how human laws should be, no wonder one of its cities is the legal capital of the world. With its current standing and with its ability to be open for new alternatives, there is certainly more to come for Netherlands. I wouldn't be surprised if the Netherlands' flag keeps on rising even with the economic downturn.
by: The Flagman
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