it takes two to tango

every morning- a miracle! 021422 re-entry

my sunflower days are here again...
why is it that just when i'm beginning
to forget,
there are events that force me
to remember
these days? life is short,
whatever you can do, do it now,
you may perhaps never have the chance to do so again...
your memory is cruel,
it causes aches and pains knowing soon
you'd forget or soon you will be forgotten.
i say, mind should be used against itself...
mind vs body,
mind vs matter,
mind vs events,
mind vs circumstance...
life is short indeed but with mind working to your advantage,
you will leave this world with no regrets---
proceed to other worlds of your liking and happily return via short trips.

when equal IS NOT fair 091408 re-entry

you divide the electric bill by equal parts

so each of you (housemates) pays the same amount

regardless of the electric equipment used and the hours of usage.

bang! that's when 'equal' isn't fair!

you divide the day's allowance by equal parts

so each of you (siblings) gets the same amount

regardless of the fare and the physiological needs of each.

bang! that's when 'equal' isn't fair!

you give your students the same high grade (academic score)

so each of them gets to get good marks

regardless of their research output or efforts in class.

bang! that's when 'equal' isn't fair!

bang! bang! bang!

Practical Money Management: A Key Pillar to a Happy Married Life

The realities of daily life may not align with what we see in movies, but certain scenes do mirror the challenges faced by real-life couples, especially misunderstandings. While there's no secret formula for a perfect marriage, one core dimension that significantly contributes to a happy union is practical money management. In today's world, where social security and government support may not always suffice, financial wisdom and independence become paramount for both partners. I always say, we can't underestimate the importance of sound financial planning in fostering a strong and harmonious relationship and getting valuable advice to build a secure and blissful life together. 20+ years of marriage and I am still learning.

Communication is Key.
I'm not claiming that I have perfected this, because my husband Bito can be a bit hard of hearing sometimes. Effective communication however is one of the best foundations of a successful marriage, especially when it comes to money matters. Openly discuss your financial goals, concerns, and responsibilities. Create a joint budget that aligns with your shared aspirations, and regularly review it together. Avoid hiding financial issues from your partner, as transparency builds trust and allows both of you to face challenges as a team.

Establish Financial Goals.
You'll really laugh at this one because my biggest goal is just to pay the electric and water bills in advance (like prepaid), and that's okay with him. For him, it's at least saving 20,000 pesos for emergencies. Setting common financial goals is crucial to steer your marriage toward a prosperous future. Discuss short-term (travels) and long-term objectives (retirement) together. Working towards these goals together fosters a sense of unity and purpose in your relationship.

Live Within Your Means.

This is where I have a master's degree! Avoid succumbing to excessive spending or living beyond your means. Learn to differentiate between needs and wants, and prioritize essentials while curbing unnecessary expenses. Embrace a frugal lifestyle when necessary, as financial stability and living debt-free contribute to marital harmony. So here goes the answer to the question: why not buy a car?

Emergency Fund and Insurance.
This one is scary but VERY IMPORTANT. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected events can take a toll on a marriage. Build an emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses, such as medical emergencies or job loss. We've been through that, and it's tough! Consider investing in health, life, and disability insurance to protect your family's financial security in challenging times. Even if it's just something cheap, like the Red Cross for less than 1,000 pesos or the annual Sagip Kapamilya plan for 3,000 pesos if you're tight on budget. The important thing is to have something, then build from there.

Financial Independence.
We learned this the hard way. While marriage fosters unity, both partners need to maintain a degree of financial independence. Encourage each other to pursue individual career goals and personal development. A sense of independence can boost self-confidence and create a more balanced dynamic within the relationship.

Seek Advice.
Goodness, don't be shy to ask for help! If you find managing finances overwhelming or encounter significant financial decisions, seek guidance from a financial advisor. A professional or an experienced friend can help you navigate complex money matters and provide personalized strategies to solve your financial problems or to achieve your financial goals together. The important thing is, you accept that there's a problem and there's a need for you to change, right?

DUCKS ON YOUR HEAD

In kindness, there was a weariness profound,

A shifting mind, too often lost, then found.

Amidst the chaos, troubles, and strife,

I yearn for peace, a pause from this life.

Breathing, once easy, now feels like a chore,

Understanding, once clear, now lives here  no more.

Sights, sounds, feelings, overwhelming as they call,

Concerns that aren't mine, yet I think of them all.

In motion, such weariness so deep,

In waiting, a tiredness that steals my sleep.

Always there for others, I forgot my heart,

Denying myself the freedom to err, to restart.

Weariness has found a home in me,

Oh I'll find rest, when tiredness sets me free.

(Version 1/Safe Version)

Sakura Magtanggol, 2024

----

i have gotten tired of being kind

i have gotten tired of changing mind

i have gotten tired of all the mess and troubles i need to check 

and solve and be just done after not breathing (almost) to keep up

i have gotten tired of breathing

i have gotten tired of understanding

i have gotten tired of seeing, listening, feeling all those concerns 

that sometimes i think, (no, i know) doesn't even concern me at all

i have gotten tired of moving

i have gotten tired of waiting

i have gotten tired of being always there for everyone, 

and not giving myself chance to err or snoooze for a little while.

i have gotten tired. 

i am not resting until this tired gets tired of me.

(Version 2/ Sane Version)

Sakura Magtanggol, 2024

From Adversity to Progress in Poverty Alleviation

Sarangani Province's recent strides in poverty alleviation paint a compelling narrative of resilience and progress. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the poverty incidence rate decreased from 40.8% in 2018 to 30.3% in 2023 (based on preliminary 2023 Sem1 data, referencing FIES) among families.  However, there was a temporary rise to 42.1% in 2021, which could be attributed in part to the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  This significant overall decrease is a testament to the concerted efforts and effective strategies implemented by the local government and its partners.

The province's transition from being among the top 10 poorest provinces in the Philippines to witnessing such a notable reduction in poverty levels is a cause for optimism and celebration. However, amidst the positive statistics lies a sobering reality - a substantial portion of Sarangani's population still grapples with the harsh realities of poverty.

As Sarangani continues its journey towards economic empowerment and social progress, it is imperative for government leaders and decision-makers to remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts. While the recent improvements are encouraging, they should not breed complacency. The persistence of poverty among a significant segment of the population underscores the ongoing need for sustainable and inclusive development initiatives.

The trajectory of Sarangani's poverty incidence rates serves as a barometer of the province's socio-economic landscape and underscores the complexities of poverty eradication. The fluctuations in these figures reflect the multifaceted nature of poverty and the challenges inherent in addressing its root causes.

Moving forward, it is essential for Sarangani's leaders to sustain
their commitment to poverty alleviation, ensuring that the gains achieved
are not only maintained but expanded upon. By prioritizing targeted interventions,
promoting inclusive growth, and fostering community participation, Saranganican further enhance its resilience and create a more equitable and prosperous future for all its residents.

The journey from 40.8% in 2018 to 30.3% in 2023 (preliminary data) exemplifies Sarangani's determination to overcome adversity and chart a course towards sustainable development. While the road ahead may be challenging, with perseverance, collaboration, and a shared vision for progress, Sarangani can continue to make significant strides in its quest to uplift the lives of its people and build a more vibrant and inclusive society.

ESDEGEES pain

In the name of fairness

some leaders convene,

A woman's voice echoes, echoes...

From the 70s to now,

the world has spun its wheel,

Yet the same old concerns,

they haunt, they steal.

Speeches we've heard, moves we've seen,

can you dance the dance?

A world in peril, given a second,

or a second chance.

Deep within, we know, we know the sting,

The solutions to problems are but

recurring, recurring things.

Our common home, it crumbles,

crumbles from within,

We portray ignorance, yet we know,

we know the sin.

You say it's not about money?

Oh, but it is,The poor can't buy in bulk,

a crisis, a crisis. Just cry sis!

In trying to adapt, we wound,

we wound our home, we call on phone.

The irony of life, in this global, global dome.

If only we had enough,

if they could truly see,

The pain, the struggle,

the desperate, desperate plea.

Some days are for dreaming,

some are for all the slap needed...

Unmet goals loom like specters,

as 2030, Oh 2030 is on its way.

Is it a beacon of hope or a cruel jest?

A world on the brink, on the brink,

put to the test.

The confusion of young and old,

it shifts, it sways, it stinks

Who will work, who will check,

who will dream for our days?

Is this an outburst, or a cry,

a cry for help, can't you see?

Better stop and think, or better yet

let it be, let it be....

--

END