Back in time, around the 50s or 60s sex is a topic that is always discussed in hush tones and in closed doors. Nowadays, however, sex is something that can be discussed over lunch or coffee. In fact, sex has become so casual that it can even be seen in news and incorporated into jokes. In fact, nowadays it is considered normal for adolescents to engage in sexual activities.
Although adolescent sexuality is usually examined in the context of romantic relationships, studies have shown that adolescents have sexual experiences that have occurred outside of the context of romantic relationships--also known as casual or nonrelational experiences. Popular press articles, especially, have raised concern that a decline in committed dating relationships among young people may have emotional consequences. Participating in nonrelational sexual activity appears to be quite common among adolescents and young adults, with over three fourths of college students reporting having had at least one such encounter. Nonrelational sexual behavior has been labeled with terms such as "hooking up" or "friends with benefits. A hookup is defined as "a sexual encounter which may or may not include sexual intercourse, usually occurring on only one occasion between two people who are strangers or brief acquaintances". A hookup becomes such when the participating parties are not involved in a committed relationship, and the encounter is short-term and occurs outside of a committed relationship.
Another situation that adolescents or young adults of today may find themselves in is the FB scenario or the friends with benefits relationship. Friends with benefits is defined as a relationship between two friends of the opposite sex who engage in sexual activity but mutually decide not to define their relationship as romantic. The definitional script for friends with benefits varies from that of a hookup only in the length of time (possibility of long-term involvement) and the addition of an ongoing friendship relationship between the two partners.
According to a study by Baxter in 2004, nonrelational sex is beneficial for young men because sex-driven and commitment-phobic are consistent with traditional depictions of masculinity that call for a man to be assertive and successful with as many sexual partners as possible and to remain unattached and unemotional toward these partners afterward; whereas women on the other hand, are assumed to seek emotional closeness and committed relationships. However, a recent push for examining men's nonconformity to traditional gender roles has revealed within-gender variability in men's enactments of masculinity, including their experiences with sexuality. In fact, a number of recent accounts suggest that men and boys may not universally benefit from nonrelational sex, but may instead seek and enjoy close emotional ties with their sexual partners as much as women do. There is diversity in findings regarding men's experience with and attitudes toward nonrelational sex. Whereas studies comparing men's and women's experience tend to support the idea that men seek nonrelational sex over traditional dating, studies also find that this preference is not universal. For example, although men are more likely than women to anticipate casual sex, a study conducted by Townsend in 1995 found that 8% of men reported they found it difficult to keep from getting emotionally involved with a nonrelational sex partner. And although it was reported that more men than women enjoy casual sex, a study showed that only one fourth of men respondents have stated that they "always enjoy hooking up," suggesting that the majority have more complicated feelings. Other men have even referred to sexual relations with their long-term partners as hookups but with relational goals in mind.
Based from these studies, it can be concluded that nonrelational sex is not necessarily pro-guy. In fact, sometimes for men what started out as something non-committal may end up to be the last relationship that they will ever have.
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Monday, March 29, 2010
The Many Faces of the Girl Child Detainee
Sad realities
In 2006, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported 10,094 cases of youth offenders under their service. 704 of these youth offenders are female.
Lack of adequate clean food and water, filthy surroundings, congested jail environment, a girl child detainee does not only struggle against these prison conditions. A girl child detainee primarily struggles against gender biases and the stereotype notion of the typical girl child belonging at home, fulfilling her duties and responsibilities as expected of females.
Tagged as a ‘criminal’ or a ‘female youth offender’, the girl child detainee’s only resort – compose an air of courageous defiance and remain true to her image as a common criminal.
The reason - the society grips with its iron fist the female who have asserted their individuality and independence to defy the norms and customs which have long strangled the female population. The terms are, of course, harsher for those who have been involved in ‘criminal’ activities – the girl child detainee.
The situation of the girl child detainee around the nation varies. They are mixed with female adult offenders while the male child detainee is often provided with a separate cell in jails around National Capital Region. This set-up increases the possibility of the girl child being influenced by the hardened adult offenders than that of the male child. Under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, the rights of the female youth offender are given the necessary recognition. Sec. 47 of the law states that female offenders
“placed in an institution shall be given special attention as to their personal needs and problems. They shall be handled by female doctors, correction officers and social workers.”
Meanwhile, Sec. 48 asserts gender sensitivity training for personnel of rehabilitation, detention and training facilities. Clearly a positive development in the previous enforcement of the law on youth offenders.
Another salient provision of the law is Sec. 63 which states the Prohibition against Labeling. Under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, competent authorities are now refrained and prohibited “from branding or labeling children as young criminals, juvenile delinquents, prostitutes or attaching to them in any manner any other derogatory names.”
Dawn of Hope
Issues surrounding the girl child detainee are lethal primarily because she is still a child, considered among the vulnerable sectors of the society. Second, she is a child detainee, which provides her the unfortunate circumstances of being detained inside the inhumane prisons of the country. Last, she is a girl, a female, a direct subject for discrimination, and gender biases within and beyond the detention cells.
With the passage of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, a stream of hope lingers inside the shadows of the damp, overcrowded jails housing every girl child detainee.
Although the society is far from respecting and recognizing the rights of the girl child offender, the law remains a symbol of a concrete step towards the fulfillment not only of the rights of the girl child detainee, but the rights of every woman as well.
In 2006, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported 10,094 cases of youth offenders under their service. 704 of these youth offenders are female.
Lack of adequate clean food and water, filthy surroundings, congested jail environment, a girl child detainee does not only struggle against these prison conditions. A girl child detainee primarily struggles against gender biases and the stereotype notion of the typical girl child belonging at home, fulfilling her duties and responsibilities as expected of females.
Tagged as a ‘criminal’ or a ‘female youth offender’, the girl child detainee’s only resort – compose an air of courageous defiance and remain true to her image as a common criminal.
The reason - the society grips with its iron fist the female who have asserted their individuality and independence to defy the norms and customs which have long strangled the female population. The terms are, of course, harsher for those who have been involved in ‘criminal’ activities – the girl child detainee.
The situation of the girl child detainee around the nation varies. They are mixed with female adult offenders while the male child detainee is often provided with a separate cell in jails around National Capital Region. This set-up increases the possibility of the girl child being influenced by the hardened adult offenders than that of the male child. Under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, the rights of the female youth offender are given the necessary recognition. Sec. 47 of the law states that female offenders
“placed in an institution shall be given special attention as to their personal needs and problems. They shall be handled by female doctors, correction officers and social workers.”
Meanwhile, Sec. 48 asserts gender sensitivity training for personnel of rehabilitation, detention and training facilities. Clearly a positive development in the previous enforcement of the law on youth offenders.
Another salient provision of the law is Sec. 63 which states the Prohibition against Labeling. Under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, competent authorities are now refrained and prohibited “from branding or labeling children as young criminals, juvenile delinquents, prostitutes or attaching to them in any manner any other derogatory names.”
Dawn of Hope
Issues surrounding the girl child detainee are lethal primarily because she is still a child, considered among the vulnerable sectors of the society. Second, she is a child detainee, which provides her the unfortunate circumstances of being detained inside the inhumane prisons of the country. Last, she is a girl, a female, a direct subject for discrimination, and gender biases within and beyond the detention cells.
With the passage of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, a stream of hope lingers inside the shadows of the damp, overcrowded jails housing every girl child detainee.
Although the society is far from respecting and recognizing the rights of the girl child offender, the law remains a symbol of a concrete step towards the fulfillment not only of the rights of the girl child detainee, but the rights of every woman as well.
Women and their double standards
Today I saw a woman wearing a thin white shirt with a dark underwire bra. She was soaking wet, and the thin fabric clung to her every curve. The unfortunate thing about the event is that we were at a public jeepney, with men in our presence. They were ogling at her breasts, and she slid closer to the jeepney’s sides in the hope that the men will not look at her.
I am completely baffled why some women wear provocative outfits in the first place, then would shrink away once a man gives them a rude glance. They have the nerve to be upset and to curse when a pervert gives them the glad eye. But the sad truth is, men wouldn’t have anything to look at in the first place if they were not provoked.
Women and their double standards. They want to be independent, but they want men to take care of them. They claim that they can do everything, but rely on men for stability and security.
A perfect example of this would be Golden’s (1997) novel, Memoirs of a Geisha. In it, a geisha claims that her major role in life is to get a “danna”. A danna is a man who will take the geisha as a mistress: he will clothe her, feed her, and spoil her, in exchange of sexual favors at anytime the man wants. Some geishas would fall in love with their dannas, sometimes the dannas would marry their geishas. Yet as the main character said, “A geisha who wants to be a star is completely dependent on having a danna” (Golden, 1997).
This pronouncement pierces through my heart, because as young as I am, I know several women who are independent and does not need a man to complete them. But novelists, the media, and all other factors point out that a woman without a man is useless.
This is a sad reality that we can all witness every day. When a man is promoted, it is because he deserves it. When a woman climbs the ladder of success, it is silently implied that she slept with the boss. As a woman these thoughts are degrading and insulting. But one person who wishes to stand up and make a difference doesn’t make much impression to the whole world.
There are women whom you can see breastfeeding in a public area. There are women who believe that the best way to get over a man is to get under another. There are women who scorn prostitutes, and frown down upon adultery, but are not innocent of having extra marital affairs.
These are double standards set by women. They want to look sexy and be noticed, but when they are noticed, they get angry. They want to be independent and in charge of their lives, yet they will cling to a man when the going gets tough.
Women are as powerful and as resourceful as men. The only difference is that men mean what they say. With women, there are always underlying contexts. It is up to us to change how the world perceives us. It is up to us whether we want to be known for our gentleness and kindness, or because of our sexual prowess. It depends upon a woman how she carries herself.
How do you live your life? You’re the only one who can change the stereotype.
I am completely baffled why some women wear provocative outfits in the first place, then would shrink away once a man gives them a rude glance. They have the nerve to be upset and to curse when a pervert gives them the glad eye. But the sad truth is, men wouldn’t have anything to look at in the first place if they were not provoked.
Women and their double standards. They want to be independent, but they want men to take care of them. They claim that they can do everything, but rely on men for stability and security.
A perfect example of this would be Golden’s (1997) novel, Memoirs of a Geisha. In it, a geisha claims that her major role in life is to get a “danna”. A danna is a man who will take the geisha as a mistress: he will clothe her, feed her, and spoil her, in exchange of sexual favors at anytime the man wants. Some geishas would fall in love with their dannas, sometimes the dannas would marry their geishas. Yet as the main character said, “A geisha who wants to be a star is completely dependent on having a danna” (Golden, 1997).
This pronouncement pierces through my heart, because as young as I am, I know several women who are independent and does not need a man to complete them. But novelists, the media, and all other factors point out that a woman without a man is useless.
This is a sad reality that we can all witness every day. When a man is promoted, it is because he deserves it. When a woman climbs the ladder of success, it is silently implied that she slept with the boss. As a woman these thoughts are degrading and insulting. But one person who wishes to stand up and make a difference doesn’t make much impression to the whole world.
There are women whom you can see breastfeeding in a public area. There are women who believe that the best way to get over a man is to get under another. There are women who scorn prostitutes, and frown down upon adultery, but are not innocent of having extra marital affairs.
These are double standards set by women. They want to look sexy and be noticed, but when they are noticed, they get angry. They want to be independent and in charge of their lives, yet they will cling to a man when the going gets tough.
Women are as powerful and as resourceful as men. The only difference is that men mean what they say. With women, there are always underlying contexts. It is up to us to change how the world perceives us. It is up to us whether we want to be known for our gentleness and kindness, or because of our sexual prowess. It depends upon a woman how she carries herself.
How do you live your life? You’re the only one who can change the stereotype.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Conservation Efforts in the Mabini-Tingloy Region in Batangas
In the 1970’s and 1980’s, the National Environment Protection Council spearheaded several attempts to create marine parks around Sombrero Island, Sepoc and Layag-Layag within the waters of Mabini and Tingloy. After these government-based initiatives proved unsuccessful, the Haribon Foundation initiated a community-based conservation project in 1990 along the shores of San Teodoro and Bagalangit barangays in Mabini. After this, a municipal ordinance was mandated in1991, 11-91, followed by a revision in 1993, 06-93. This ordinance instated the first fish sanctuaries in the area: Cathedral Rock, Arthurs Reef and Twin Rocks. The Sulu Fund for Marine Conservation Foundation Incorporated started a series of surveys at these sanctuaries and the surrounding reefs of Anilao dive area, starting from the mid-1990s to the most recent, as of the literature found on the subject, in 2001.
1997 saw the beginning of the involvement of the World Wildlife Fund – Philippines in the Mabini-Tingloy area. Under the umbrella of the Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas, they promoted the area as one of its key sites within the Sulu-Sulawesi Marine Eco-region program. The Centre for Empowerment and Resource Development and the Sulu Fund for Marine Conservation Foundation also began its Mabini-Tingloy Coastal Area Development program in the same year. In 2000, WWF-Philippines initiated a resort’ non-government organization: The Friends of Balayan Bay, hoping to integrate stakeholders into their conservation efforts. This effort was swiftly followed by the signing of a memorandum of understanding, by various other stakeholders such as local businesses, oil companies operating in the area, shipping companies and previously integrated NGOs, for the preservation of the environment in the Mabini-Tingloy area.
The Mabini-Tingloy Marine Conservation Project was also launched in 2001. Its main objective was to facilitate commercial dive interest in Anilao in such a way that would be beneficial to all, especially the environment. Following this spate of conservation projects, WWF-Philippines, in conjunction with the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation and Coral Cay Conservation, began the Mabini-Tingloy Marine Biodiversity Conservation Project. This project’s objectives were listed as the following: to survey the reefs of Mabini-Tingloy and provide a dataset and habitat map of the study site. These would be used for the development of a management plan for the area. The Municipality of Mabini amended the 1993 ordinances it made to make Twin Rocks, Arthur’s Rocks and Cathedral Rock Marine Sanctuaries, ordaining that these become Marine Reserves instead. Also, the ordinance states that coastal resource management should now be provided as a basic service by the municipality.
These initiatives are all part of the umbrella of Integrated Coastal Management, a method of helping to manage and maintain coastal resources by aligning use with the protection of ecosystem productivity and viability. Integrated Coastal Management allows countries to maximize benefit from these marine resources while minimizing harm on coastal ecosystems. The Mabini-Tingloy Biodiversity Conservation Project is an example of this. Establishment of these has aided in the protection of many reefs in the Philippines such as: Apo Island off Negros Oriental, Danjugan Island in Negros Occidental and the Tubbataha atoll in the Sulu Sea. It is said that these projects were so successful due to prior scientific assessment before the setting of boundaries, as well as the implementation of significant long-term strategies and the proper management of these protected areas.
1997 saw the beginning of the involvement of the World Wildlife Fund – Philippines in the Mabini-Tingloy area. Under the umbrella of the Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas, they promoted the area as one of its key sites within the Sulu-Sulawesi Marine Eco-region program. The Centre for Empowerment and Resource Development and the Sulu Fund for Marine Conservation Foundation also began its Mabini-Tingloy Coastal Area Development program in the same year. In 2000, WWF-Philippines initiated a resort’ non-government organization: The Friends of Balayan Bay, hoping to integrate stakeholders into their conservation efforts. This effort was swiftly followed by the signing of a memorandum of understanding, by various other stakeholders such as local businesses, oil companies operating in the area, shipping companies and previously integrated NGOs, for the preservation of the environment in the Mabini-Tingloy area.
The Mabini-Tingloy Marine Conservation Project was also launched in 2001. Its main objective was to facilitate commercial dive interest in Anilao in such a way that would be beneficial to all, especially the environment. Following this spate of conservation projects, WWF-Philippines, in conjunction with the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation and Coral Cay Conservation, began the Mabini-Tingloy Marine Biodiversity Conservation Project. This project’s objectives were listed as the following: to survey the reefs of Mabini-Tingloy and provide a dataset and habitat map of the study site. These would be used for the development of a management plan for the area. The Municipality of Mabini amended the 1993 ordinances it made to make Twin Rocks, Arthur’s Rocks and Cathedral Rock Marine Sanctuaries, ordaining that these become Marine Reserves instead. Also, the ordinance states that coastal resource management should now be provided as a basic service by the municipality.
These initiatives are all part of the umbrella of Integrated Coastal Management, a method of helping to manage and maintain coastal resources by aligning use with the protection of ecosystem productivity and viability. Integrated Coastal Management allows countries to maximize benefit from these marine resources while minimizing harm on coastal ecosystems. The Mabini-Tingloy Biodiversity Conservation Project is an example of this. Establishment of these has aided in the protection of many reefs in the Philippines such as: Apo Island off Negros Oriental, Danjugan Island in Negros Occidental and the Tubbataha atoll in the Sulu Sea. It is said that these projects were so successful due to prior scientific assessment before the setting of boundaries, as well as the implementation of significant long-term strategies and the proper management of these protected areas.
Tracing the roots of Sushi
Famous among different cultures for its exotic taste, Sushi remains among the most sought-after dish in Asia. Origins of Sushi dates back to 4th century BC. While the said dish is now associated with Japan, its origins is believed to have come from Southeast Asia particularly in the countries of China and the Korean Peninsula. It was only around the 8th Century AD that Sushi was believed to have been introduced to Japan.
Formerly called Nare-Zushi, this preparation entails a process of fermentation. A freshwater fish is properly cleaned and gutted is filled in with uncooked rice. The uncooked rice is believed to help the fermentation process of the fish. This dish is stored for 2-3 months. After the fermentation is complete, the rice will be discarded and only the fish is kept.
After Sushi was introduced in Japan, the dish took several variations in its preparation. During the Muromachi period, a variation of the sushi called Seisei Sushi became popular. This type of sushi contains rice and fish and is eaten with the fish slightly raw. Another variation is the Nama Nare which is a slight modification from the earlier Nare-Zushi. It is consumed before the dish becomes completely fermented with the fermented rice being eaten as well. The appreciation for vinegar created a different approach to preparing the Nare-Zushi. Instead of undergoing the long process of fermentation, Fresh vinegar was often used as a substitute to recreate the sour taste of the originally fermented Nare-Zushi. This form of
Nare- Zushi is served with cooked rice. During the rise of Sumo Wrestlers in 1781, a hand made sushi called Nigiri Sushi was created. Believed to be Japanese who thought of making a hand made sushi, Yohei Hanaya devised a faster way of making and selling sushi in a cart to cater to the crowds brought by the sumo wrestling matches. In spite of the speed of producing the said sushi, Nigiri Sushi was sold at a very expensive price which sullied the reputation of Yohei Hanaya considering that a prohibition for selling luxury items was implemented during that period.
From 1827 to 1829, the prospect of combining raw fish meat and sushi actually materialized. This sushi is now known as the Edo Style Sushi and is marketed as a form of fast food in the old days of Edo.
Another popular type of sushi is the California Roll which became popular during the 70’s. Japanese entrepreneurs at the time thought of expanding their business in California. Challenged by the difficulty of introducing a foreign delicacy to the Americans, the said Japanese entrepreneurs experimented on different ingredients of the sushi. This resulted to a merging of cultural tastes in the form of the California Roll.
Sushi became increasing popular in the 80’s. Japanese chefs were hired and transferred to different continents. Sushi bars were established and has increasingly expanded in the United States and across the globe with a variety of Sushi chefs from different cultures preparing the sumptuous treat.
Formerly called Nare-Zushi, this preparation entails a process of fermentation. A freshwater fish is properly cleaned and gutted is filled in with uncooked rice. The uncooked rice is believed to help the fermentation process of the fish. This dish is stored for 2-3 months. After the fermentation is complete, the rice will be discarded and only the fish is kept.
After Sushi was introduced in Japan, the dish took several variations in its preparation. During the Muromachi period, a variation of the sushi called Seisei Sushi became popular. This type of sushi contains rice and fish and is eaten with the fish slightly raw. Another variation is the Nama Nare which is a slight modification from the earlier Nare-Zushi. It is consumed before the dish becomes completely fermented with the fermented rice being eaten as well. The appreciation for vinegar created a different approach to preparing the Nare-Zushi. Instead of undergoing the long process of fermentation, Fresh vinegar was often used as a substitute to recreate the sour taste of the originally fermented Nare-Zushi. This form of
Nare- Zushi is served with cooked rice. During the rise of Sumo Wrestlers in 1781, a hand made sushi called Nigiri Sushi was created. Believed to be Japanese who thought of making a hand made sushi, Yohei Hanaya devised a faster way of making and selling sushi in a cart to cater to the crowds brought by the sumo wrestling matches. In spite of the speed of producing the said sushi, Nigiri Sushi was sold at a very expensive price which sullied the reputation of Yohei Hanaya considering that a prohibition for selling luxury items was implemented during that period.
From 1827 to 1829, the prospect of combining raw fish meat and sushi actually materialized. This sushi is now known as the Edo Style Sushi and is marketed as a form of fast food in the old days of Edo.
Another popular type of sushi is the California Roll which became popular during the 70’s. Japanese entrepreneurs at the time thought of expanding their business in California. Challenged by the difficulty of introducing a foreign delicacy to the Americans, the said Japanese entrepreneurs experimented on different ingredients of the sushi. This resulted to a merging of cultural tastes in the form of the California Roll.
Sushi became increasing popular in the 80’s. Japanese chefs were hired and transferred to different continents. Sushi bars were established and has increasingly expanded in the United States and across the globe with a variety of Sushi chefs from different cultures preparing the sumptuous treat.
The Price of the Equality: A Woman’s Place in a World of Men
It seems that despite our technological marvels and advances, one thing other than change will remain constant. Despite our proud country saying that it is liberal and democratic, the Filipinos’ beliefs and actions speak otherwise. Despite our leap in science and undying call for equality, nothing much has changed. The women might be out of their homes and working, but the challenges and the discriminations fired against them are the same.
Two generations ago, women are considered as properties of men. They have no bearing in a social world. They could only agree with their husbands, bow their heads, and submit themselves to the fate that they will be ravaged sexually every single day. This was a woman’s place before. But how much has changed?
A generation ago, women’s voices were finally heard. They can vote, they can work, and they can provide for their families. Yet when they go home, they are expected to have cleaned the house, fed the children, and to wait on hand and foot for their husbands. This was a woman’s place before. Now, has this changed at all?
In her novel, Bushnell (2005) paints a very adapt picture of what happened to the women of today. They are considered as a force to be reckoned, with their strength and beauty a deadly mixture to make any man fall on his knees. Their wit and sarcasm are enough to lead their daily lives, and even one character in the novel has stated that she doesn’t need a man to be complete.
Yet deeper into the story, as the plot unfolds, one can see how Bushnell (2005) creatively spun a new fabric on top of what has been happening all these years. Yes, the women have important jobs, beautiful homes, and submissive husbands. But they are acting like men. The husbands were expected to retire and mind the children, while the wives make millions of dollars. The role of housekeeping and playing Mother is being played by the husbands who were depending on the wives’ salaries to keep the family secure.
What happened to equality? There is nothing worse than a feminist saying that men and women should be equal. What men could do, women can do better: yes, this is true. But there are better ways to do things to surpass whatever the men in the families could provide, other than enslaving them into the old cliché.
A hundred years after our grandmothers fought for independence in the World War, the situation of men and women are still the same. Only now, the roles are reversed. Yet the same old factors are there. One would be left home to mind the children and play house, while the other would go out, have affairs, and enjoy life, while bringing home the money to feed the family.
This is not the equality our foremothers and forefathers had in mind for their children. Sexual equality is not about one gender triumph over the other. It is about the husband and wife getting in harmony, working hand in hand in building their family. There shouldn’t be a breadwinner and a housewife or househusband. Instead, what should be there is the love that was supposed to be the link between the two of them, in order to create a loving environment for their children.
Yet before we can reach this golden era wherein women and men will not try to compete with each other, it will be years and decades before we truly realize the meaning of equality. This, my friends, is what disheartens me.
Two generations ago, women are considered as properties of men. They have no bearing in a social world. They could only agree with their husbands, bow their heads, and submit themselves to the fate that they will be ravaged sexually every single day. This was a woman’s place before. But how much has changed?
A generation ago, women’s voices were finally heard. They can vote, they can work, and they can provide for their families. Yet when they go home, they are expected to have cleaned the house, fed the children, and to wait on hand and foot for their husbands. This was a woman’s place before. Now, has this changed at all?
In her novel, Bushnell (2005) paints a very adapt picture of what happened to the women of today. They are considered as a force to be reckoned, with their strength and beauty a deadly mixture to make any man fall on his knees. Their wit and sarcasm are enough to lead their daily lives, and even one character in the novel has stated that she doesn’t need a man to be complete.
Yet deeper into the story, as the plot unfolds, one can see how Bushnell (2005) creatively spun a new fabric on top of what has been happening all these years. Yes, the women have important jobs, beautiful homes, and submissive husbands. But they are acting like men. The husbands were expected to retire and mind the children, while the wives make millions of dollars. The role of housekeeping and playing Mother is being played by the husbands who were depending on the wives’ salaries to keep the family secure.
What happened to equality? There is nothing worse than a feminist saying that men and women should be equal. What men could do, women can do better: yes, this is true. But there are better ways to do things to surpass whatever the men in the families could provide, other than enslaving them into the old cliché.
A hundred years after our grandmothers fought for independence in the World War, the situation of men and women are still the same. Only now, the roles are reversed. Yet the same old factors are there. One would be left home to mind the children and play house, while the other would go out, have affairs, and enjoy life, while bringing home the money to feed the family.
This is not the equality our foremothers and forefathers had in mind for their children. Sexual equality is not about one gender triumph over the other. It is about the husband and wife getting in harmony, working hand in hand in building their family. There shouldn’t be a breadwinner and a housewife or househusband. Instead, what should be there is the love that was supposed to be the link between the two of them, in order to create a loving environment for their children.
Yet before we can reach this golden era wherein women and men will not try to compete with each other, it will be years and decades before we truly realize the meaning of equality. This, my friends, is what disheartens me.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Online Blogging Addiction
A blog is a contraction of the term "weblog" which was coined by Jorn Barger on December of 1997. However, the term blog’s popularity is mainly owed to Peter Merholz; in the year 1999 at around April or May, Peter jokingly broke the word weblog into the phrase we blog in the sidebar of his blog Peterme.com giving birth to the term blog. Shortly thereafter, the word blog was used by Evan Williams at Pyra Labs as a noun and a verb ("to blog," meaning "to edit one's weblog or to post to one's weblog") and devised the term "blogger" in connection with Pyra Labs' Blogger product, leading to the popularization of the terms.
By definition, a blog is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. It combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages and other media related to its topic. The ability of readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs. Most blogs are primarily textual, although some focus on art, photographs, videos, music, and audio.
Today, to maintain an online diary or blog has become secondary nature to most individuals. In fact, studies have shown that blogging now functions as a social networking site---connecting users and enabling interaction with one another on-line; an advertising tool---certain companies create and maintain blogs for their own products in an effort to advertise. According to Michael Massing, online blogging even influences politics. In truth, most opinions, knowledge and point of views formed by individuals today could possibly be outsourced from a blog or a forum found in the World Wide Web. In fact, these days it is normal to maintain your on-line diary by the use of your mobile phone or while you’re at the office. The human race’ reaction to the introduction of blogs is likewise similar to an addiction. So what makes blogging so addictive and how did it come to be so popular?
It is in the nature of our species to continue doing something that is rewarding for us. Maintaining an on-line diary or more popularly known as blog is rewarding to human beings because it is in the nature of man to yearn for recognition amongst his fellow men. A blog allows us to mark our existence. In a paper written by Gerald J. Gargiulo in 1989, he notes that man desires acknowledgement, understanding and appreciation --- for an experience of belonging to relationships and our world. This is also supported by Dr. Evelin Gerda Linder when she stated that all humans share a common ground, namely a yearning for recognition and respect that connects them and draws them into relationships. When we blog, consciously or unconsciously we are hoping that what we wrote about that irritating sales lady down the street or that covetous new gadget our officemate just bought will be read, talked about and even appreciated by someone in cyberspace. We are hoping that somebody will sympathize and empathize with us so that we may feel less alone in the world. We yearn for recognition which is why we are always itching to go online to check our latest entries for comments about the latest development in our lives because it makes us feel that we are interesting and we are worth being interacted to. A blog gives a sense of accomplishment. Through our blog, we become our own publicist, affirming to ourselves and to the rest of the world that we have a life that is worthy of being storied and talked about.
Blogging is a liberating experience because it satisfies our human desire for freedom. On-line we can post our opinions on topics with the protection of anonymity. We can also take another personality if we want. Blogging is the most attractive way of presenting one’s self today. So go on-line now! You know you want to…
By definition, a blog is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. It combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages and other media related to its topic. The ability of readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs. Most blogs are primarily textual, although some focus on art, photographs, videos, music, and audio.
Today, to maintain an online diary or blog has become secondary nature to most individuals. In fact, studies have shown that blogging now functions as a social networking site---connecting users and enabling interaction with one another on-line; an advertising tool---certain companies create and maintain blogs for their own products in an effort to advertise. According to Michael Massing, online blogging even influences politics. In truth, most opinions, knowledge and point of views formed by individuals today could possibly be outsourced from a blog or a forum found in the World Wide Web. In fact, these days it is normal to maintain your on-line diary by the use of your mobile phone or while you’re at the office. The human race’ reaction to the introduction of blogs is likewise similar to an addiction. So what makes blogging so addictive and how did it come to be so popular?
It is in the nature of our species to continue doing something that is rewarding for us. Maintaining an on-line diary or more popularly known as blog is rewarding to human beings because it is in the nature of man to yearn for recognition amongst his fellow men. A blog allows us to mark our existence. In a paper written by Gerald J. Gargiulo in 1989, he notes that man desires acknowledgement, understanding and appreciation --- for an experience of belonging to relationships and our world. This is also supported by Dr. Evelin Gerda Linder when she stated that all humans share a common ground, namely a yearning for recognition and respect that connects them and draws them into relationships. When we blog, consciously or unconsciously we are hoping that what we wrote about that irritating sales lady down the street or that covetous new gadget our officemate just bought will be read, talked about and even appreciated by someone in cyberspace. We are hoping that somebody will sympathize and empathize with us so that we may feel less alone in the world. We yearn for recognition which is why we are always itching to go online to check our latest entries for comments about the latest development in our lives because it makes us feel that we are interesting and we are worth being interacted to. A blog gives a sense of accomplishment. Through our blog, we become our own publicist, affirming to ourselves and to the rest of the world that we have a life that is worthy of being storied and talked about.
Blogging is a liberating experience because it satisfies our human desire for freedom. On-line we can post our opinions on topics with the protection of anonymity. We can also take another personality if we want. Blogging is the most attractive way of presenting one’s self today. So go on-line now! You know you want to…
Reproductive rights under GMA
While the Arroyo government remained preoccupied with the political debacle haunting its administration, healthcare, just like the rest of the social services that should be prioritized by the state, was seemingly swept aside.
Measures supposedly addressing healthcare were merely prolonging issues on accessibility, affordability and quality of services at times even exacerbating the dismal health situation.
Such as the case of the Reproductive Rights bill which remains pending at the House of Representatives in spite of its increasing popularity among the public. The bill battled strong lobbying from the religious Catholic sectors which aggressively launched anti-RH campaign around the nation.
Social Weather Stations (SWS) has released the results of a survey conducted in September and December 2008 and another survey polled in February of this year. The survey polls reveal that the 68 % of Filipinos believe that there must be a law mandating the government to distribute condoms, IUDs and pills. 64 % of Manila residents also favored the creation of the said law in spite of the existing contraceptive ban in Manila.
When asked about their position in the existence of a law that mandates for the teaching of family planning to the youth, SWS polls reflect that 76 % of Filipinos is in favor of a said law. In summary, the SWS polls reveal that 71 % of the Filipinos are in favor of the Reproductive health bill. In spite of increasing lobbying efforts of both the Catholic Church and the pro-RH advocates, the Arroyo administration continue
to provide safe and neutral positions regarding the said bill. In the State of the Nation Address in 2008, Pres. Arroyo preferred and encouraged applying natural family planning methods as a means of birth control by Filipino couples.
A similar survey was also conducted by Pulse Asia in October 2008. Their 2008 Ulat ng Bayan Survey showed that 63% of the Filipinos support the RH bill. In a statement made by Lorelei Fajardo, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Pres. Arroyo stands by her position on natural family planning but will consider the public opinion when both houses passes the bill to Malacañang for signing.
Another challenge to the respect for reproductive health came in the form of a nine-year contraceptive ban imposed by the former Manila Mayor Jose “Lito” Atienza to the residents of Manila.
The Executive Order No. 003 discouraged the use of artificial family planning methods which virtually bans the use of contraceptives. In the nine-year ban, women of Manila were reportedly having difficulties in availing contraceptives. An clinic formed and managed by a non-government organization was closed down for promoting artificial family planning. A case study published by Linangan ng Kababaihan (LIKHAAN) revealed that the said ban affected the relationship of couples, resulting to domestic violence.
The Arroyo administration’s perception in upholding the right to health seemingly from an identity crisis, uncertain of whether to protect the Filipinos’ right to health or to deliberately hurt the populace with legislations that are only protecting the rights of the privileged few.
Measures supposedly addressing healthcare were merely prolonging issues on accessibility, affordability and quality of services at times even exacerbating the dismal health situation.
Such as the case of the Reproductive Rights bill which remains pending at the House of Representatives in spite of its increasing popularity among the public. The bill battled strong lobbying from the religious Catholic sectors which aggressively launched anti-RH campaign around the nation.
Social Weather Stations (SWS) has released the results of a survey conducted in September and December 2008 and another survey polled in February of this year. The survey polls reveal that the 68 % of Filipinos believe that there must be a law mandating the government to distribute condoms, IUDs and pills. 64 % of Manila residents also favored the creation of the said law in spite of the existing contraceptive ban in Manila.
When asked about their position in the existence of a law that mandates for the teaching of family planning to the youth, SWS polls reflect that 76 % of Filipinos is in favor of a said law. In summary, the SWS polls reveal that 71 % of the Filipinos are in favor of the Reproductive health bill. In spite of increasing lobbying efforts of both the Catholic Church and the pro-RH advocates, the Arroyo administration continue
to provide safe and neutral positions regarding the said bill. In the State of the Nation Address in 2008, Pres. Arroyo preferred and encouraged applying natural family planning methods as a means of birth control by Filipino couples.
A similar survey was also conducted by Pulse Asia in October 2008. Their 2008 Ulat ng Bayan Survey showed that 63% of the Filipinos support the RH bill. In a statement made by Lorelei Fajardo, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Pres. Arroyo stands by her position on natural family planning but will consider the public opinion when both houses passes the bill to Malacañang for signing.
Another challenge to the respect for reproductive health came in the form of a nine-year contraceptive ban imposed by the former Manila Mayor Jose “Lito” Atienza to the residents of Manila.
The Executive Order No. 003 discouraged the use of artificial family planning methods which virtually bans the use of contraceptives. In the nine-year ban, women of Manila were reportedly having difficulties in availing contraceptives. An clinic formed and managed by a non-government organization was closed down for promoting artificial family planning. A case study published by Linangan ng Kababaihan (LIKHAAN) revealed that the said ban affected the relationship of couples, resulting to domestic violence.
The Arroyo administration’s perception in upholding the right to health seemingly from an identity crisis, uncertain of whether to protect the Filipinos’ right to health or to deliberately hurt the populace with legislations that are only protecting the rights of the privileged few.
Japayukis: Are they heroes, or hoes?
Majority of Filipinos think that being a Japayuki is synonymous to being a whore. In universities, there are many students who are half-Japanese and half-Filipinos, whose mothers were Japayukis who worked in Japan. Because of this scenario, the true nature of a Japayuki’s work is left unexplained. The writer would try her best to explain what really goes on in the Land of the Rising Sun.
According to Fuwa (1999), the meaning of the term “japayuki-san” literally means “Miss Go-to-Japan”, or someone who goes to Japan. There is nothing in the term that suggests women who go to Japan will immediately work as prostitutes. In fact, Filipina Migrant Workers (FMW) leave the Philippines labeled as Overseas Performing Artists (OPA), or, in common terms, dancers, singers, entertainers, cultural dancers, and the likes. They leave their homeland in search for a greener pasture for those they’ve left behind; usually families with meager income. These women bravely took the role of a breadwinner in order to provide a better life for those that they love.
With their OPA visas, these women are actually geishas reincarnated; they mingle with customers, serve drinks, and entertain them in the form of singing, dancing, and conversing. Successful FMWs make it plain that they do not sell their skin in exchange for yen. They will return to the country laden with money; sometimes enough to start their own livelihood. Their neighbors and relatives will suck up to them for the pasalubongs the FMWs graciously distribute, but despite the generosity they are still the targets of intrigues and gossips.
According to Kamusta Ka Foundation, the negative connotation of the word “japayuki” is only emphasized by the Filipinos. In truth, the FMWs are just “entertainers” who enter Japan in order to work a decent job. Anderson (2004) agrees by writing that the job the Filipinas were asked to do was simply to be a hostess, or companions and conversationalists with their clients. Their job was to entertain in the form of “inconsequential talk, serving drinks and offering companionship and not sex.”
True, sometimes there are Filipinas who would come home in the Philippines with her stomach bulging with a Japanese man’s child. Some would say that these Filipinas only became pregnant in order to get Japanese citizenship once their boyfriends marry them. Yet there are stories of real love found between a Japayuki and her customer. Though they are prohibited from talking to each other outside of the workplace, relationships would be forged, and the love would run its course.
According to Fuwa and Anderson (2004), there were eight Filipinas who returned home with good money, enough to build their own businesses and provide for their families. Some of these women married Japanese men, and an hour into their company would prove that the relationship is based on love.
Yet despite these positive pictures, Filipinos would still show off their chauvinism, and say that Filipinas should not go to Japan to serve Japanese men at all. But given the financial stability in this country, even Filipinos would go abroad to work for their families.
Now the writer has provided a clearer picture of what really happens in Japan. She would only leave this to the readers: when men leave the country to provide for their families, they return home as heroes. Why is it that when women leave and do the same sacrifice, they are labeled as whores?
According to Fuwa (1999), the meaning of the term “japayuki-san” literally means “Miss Go-to-Japan”, or someone who goes to Japan. There is nothing in the term that suggests women who go to Japan will immediately work as prostitutes. In fact, Filipina Migrant Workers (FMW) leave the Philippines labeled as Overseas Performing Artists (OPA), or, in common terms, dancers, singers, entertainers, cultural dancers, and the likes. They leave their homeland in search for a greener pasture for those they’ve left behind; usually families with meager income. These women bravely took the role of a breadwinner in order to provide a better life for those that they love.
With their OPA visas, these women are actually geishas reincarnated; they mingle with customers, serve drinks, and entertain them in the form of singing, dancing, and conversing. Successful FMWs make it plain that they do not sell their skin in exchange for yen. They will return to the country laden with money; sometimes enough to start their own livelihood. Their neighbors and relatives will suck up to them for the pasalubongs the FMWs graciously distribute, but despite the generosity they are still the targets of intrigues and gossips.
According to Kamusta Ka Foundation, the negative connotation of the word “japayuki” is only emphasized by the Filipinos. In truth, the FMWs are just “entertainers” who enter Japan in order to work a decent job. Anderson (2004) agrees by writing that the job the Filipinas were asked to do was simply to be a hostess, or companions and conversationalists with their clients. Their job was to entertain in the form of “inconsequential talk, serving drinks and offering companionship and not sex.”
True, sometimes there are Filipinas who would come home in the Philippines with her stomach bulging with a Japanese man’s child. Some would say that these Filipinas only became pregnant in order to get Japanese citizenship once their boyfriends marry them. Yet there are stories of real love found between a Japayuki and her customer. Though they are prohibited from talking to each other outside of the workplace, relationships would be forged, and the love would run its course.
According to Fuwa and Anderson (2004), there were eight Filipinas who returned home with good money, enough to build their own businesses and provide for their families. Some of these women married Japanese men, and an hour into their company would prove that the relationship is based on love.
Yet despite these positive pictures, Filipinos would still show off their chauvinism, and say that Filipinas should not go to Japan to serve Japanese men at all. But given the financial stability in this country, even Filipinos would go abroad to work for their families.
Now the writer has provided a clearer picture of what really happens in Japan. She would only leave this to the readers: when men leave the country to provide for their families, they return home as heroes. Why is it that when women leave and do the same sacrifice, they are labeled as whores?
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Healthcare Gone Awry. Dissecting the Hospital Detention Law
The Right to Health of everyone is guaranteed both in international conventions and domestic laws. However in spite of these state guarantees and conventions, quality and affordable healthcare remain elusive for Filipinos.
Suffering from prolonged labor, Marites was admitted in Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Maramag on the 12th of July in 2007. She was then pregnant with her 7th child. Without sufficient finances to settle hospital obligations, Marites and her baby still remain admitted almost a month after she was hospitalized. Marites was just among the 18 patients who lay languishing in carton mats in a ward resembling an unsanitized and cramped detention ward in the Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in August of 2007.
Under the Republic Act No. 9439, popularly known as the Hospital Detention Law, patients without the financial capacity to settle their hospital obligations but has fully or partially recovered are allowed to leave the hospital or medical clinic upon the accomplishment of a promissory note. The promissory note covering the patient’s hospital expenses should be guaranteed by a mortgage or a co-maker who will be similarly held liable for the unpaid hospital dues. The Hospital Detention Law, however, does not apply to patients who opted for private rooms, thus prioritizing indigent patients.
As the Hospital Detention Law gained praise for its pro-poor principles, its passage threatened hospital owners as well as doctors and nurses. The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines (PHAP) began publicly airing their opposition to the law. PHAP argued that without the payments from
hospital fees, the funds of hospitals will not suffice for medicine and equipment expenses as well as the salaries of hospital employees. With these arguments, PHAP threatened to conduct a nationwide Hospital Holiday in which PHAP member hospitals will close down two to three times a month except for the emergency ward. The Hospital Holiday will continue until 2008 or until the law is amended or a reasonable Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) are formulated. The Department of Health (DOH) responded to the appeals of PHAP, Undersecretary Alexander Padilla invited PHAP in the formulation of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Hospital Detention Law. DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III also contested the arguments of the possible decrease in the private hospitals’ profits, saying that these hospitals are actually receiving sufficient funds from PhilHealth, 70% of PhilHealth reimbursements go to private hospitals, only 30% was reimbursed to government hospitals.
While sincerely attempting to resolve the accessibility and affordability issues of health care, the passage of the Hospital Detention Law, has just merely transferred the state’s obligations to the private sector. Patients are then forced to make out-of-pocket payments, driving them to the mercy of private hospitals that are charging fees beyond the patients’ financial means.
Until comprehensive and systematic reforms in the various aspects of the healthcare system in the Philippines are implemented, the passage of the Hospital Detention Law will only remain a symbolic gesture of the state’s attempt to fulfill its Right to Health obligations to the Filipinos.
Suffering from prolonged labor, Marites was admitted in Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Maramag on the 12th of July in 2007. She was then pregnant with her 7th child. Without sufficient finances to settle hospital obligations, Marites and her baby still remain admitted almost a month after she was hospitalized. Marites was just among the 18 patients who lay languishing in carton mats in a ward resembling an unsanitized and cramped detention ward in the Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in August of 2007.
Under the Republic Act No. 9439, popularly known as the Hospital Detention Law, patients without the financial capacity to settle their hospital obligations but has fully or partially recovered are allowed to leave the hospital or medical clinic upon the accomplishment of a promissory note. The promissory note covering the patient’s hospital expenses should be guaranteed by a mortgage or a co-maker who will be similarly held liable for the unpaid hospital dues. The Hospital Detention Law, however, does not apply to patients who opted for private rooms, thus prioritizing indigent patients.
As the Hospital Detention Law gained praise for its pro-poor principles, its passage threatened hospital owners as well as doctors and nurses. The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines (PHAP) began publicly airing their opposition to the law. PHAP argued that without the payments from
hospital fees, the funds of hospitals will not suffice for medicine and equipment expenses as well as the salaries of hospital employees. With these arguments, PHAP threatened to conduct a nationwide Hospital Holiday in which PHAP member hospitals will close down two to three times a month except for the emergency ward. The Hospital Holiday will continue until 2008 or until the law is amended or a reasonable Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) are formulated. The Department of Health (DOH) responded to the appeals of PHAP, Undersecretary Alexander Padilla invited PHAP in the formulation of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Hospital Detention Law. DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III also contested the arguments of the possible decrease in the private hospitals’ profits, saying that these hospitals are actually receiving sufficient funds from PhilHealth, 70% of PhilHealth reimbursements go to private hospitals, only 30% was reimbursed to government hospitals.
While sincerely attempting to resolve the accessibility and affordability issues of health care, the passage of the Hospital Detention Law, has just merely transferred the state’s obligations to the private sector. Patients are then forced to make out-of-pocket payments, driving them to the mercy of private hospitals that are charging fees beyond the patients’ financial means.
Until comprehensive and systematic reforms in the various aspects of the healthcare system in the Philippines are implemented, the passage of the Hospital Detention Law will only remain a symbolic gesture of the state’s attempt to fulfill its Right to Health obligations to the Filipinos.
Graveyard Book
A happy childhood is often described as one characterized by love, family, and a sense of security. Many adults are wont to complain that their unacceptable behavior is due to some distant unfortunate event in their childhood which may have affected their coping mechanisms as they matured, a commonplace, yet unpleasant, statement widely accepted by psychiatrists. A certain question now arises in my medically inclined mind: what would psychiatrists predict for the little boy Nobody Owens? Nobody, or Bod, is the main character of Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book, the strange yet enlightening tale of a boy who was orphaned early in life and was then adopted by a charming couple, Mr. and Mrs. Owens, who turn out to be ghosts.
The story is set in the fictional Old Town, a sleepy little village with a dreamlike quality about it. Within this quiet stretch of land is a graveyard, now unused and abandoned. It has been turned into a nature reserve and it is in this precise location that Bod finds himself as he escapes the murderer of his family. Raised by the graveyard’s phantasmal inhabitants and his mysterious guardian Silas, Bod grows up into a curious and pleasant boy. He encounters ghouls, werewolves, and a monstrous slithering creature hiding beneath the hill of the graveyard. He also manages to make friends with a girl who visits the graveyard from time to time. While he is growing up, he is taught to read, to fade through walls and slip through shadows, and other uncanny abilities.
Surprisingly entertaining despite the occasional macabre and hair-raising plights, Edinger (2009) calls Gaiman’s creation a “novel of wonder…weaving a tale of unforgettable enchantment.” Common themes of familial closeness and zest for life are cleverly incorporated into this masterpiece. The subtleties with which these cherished values are imparted to readers are completely endearing. While I read the book, I was entranced to the point that I could not help but nervously look over my shoulder to see if there was a ghoul-gate opening its jaws to swallow me into the dark city of Ghulheim, leading me to doubt if this truly was a children’s book. Although I generally do not favor the style which Gaiman’s editor Elise Howard (2009) describes as “the episodic nature of the book,” I found it completely appropriate for this tale. Since it is a children’s book, one would expect a story that can be told in chapters, thus making it easier for parents to read a portion of the story every night before bedtime. Finally, admitting that the book was influenced by Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book by no means diminishes Gaiman’s skill in delivering this tale. For this reason, he was awarded the Newbery Medal which honors outstanding contribution to American children’s literature.
Going back to my original question, I continue to wonder what conclusions psychiatrists would draw up regarding Bod. After all, his family was murdered, he was raised in a graveyard by specters, and he has been in so many frightening situations enough to terrify a full-grown man. Would they say that he would grow up to be a disturbed young man because of his experiences? Or would those same experiences have molded him to become stronger than the rest of us? Personally, I believe the love and warmth with which Bod’s ghost family accepted him has already made up for the loss of his real one. Whichever the case, I only make this point to show how curious I am about what Bod will ultimately become. As Gaiman’s daughter Maddy so nonchalantly asked after her father read her the first chapter he wrote, I, too, can only ask, “What happens next?”
One thing is certain though, with Bod’s enthusiasm to live his life to the fullest, his life outside the safety of the graveyard would be peppered with new adventures and characters as elaborate and lively as those resting in his home.
The story is set in the fictional Old Town, a sleepy little village with a dreamlike quality about it. Within this quiet stretch of land is a graveyard, now unused and abandoned. It has been turned into a nature reserve and it is in this precise location that Bod finds himself as he escapes the murderer of his family. Raised by the graveyard’s phantasmal inhabitants and his mysterious guardian Silas, Bod grows up into a curious and pleasant boy. He encounters ghouls, werewolves, and a monstrous slithering creature hiding beneath the hill of the graveyard. He also manages to make friends with a girl who visits the graveyard from time to time. While he is growing up, he is taught to read, to fade through walls and slip through shadows, and other uncanny abilities.
Surprisingly entertaining despite the occasional macabre and hair-raising plights, Edinger (2009) calls Gaiman’s creation a “novel of wonder…weaving a tale of unforgettable enchantment.” Common themes of familial closeness and zest for life are cleverly incorporated into this masterpiece. The subtleties with which these cherished values are imparted to readers are completely endearing. While I read the book, I was entranced to the point that I could not help but nervously look over my shoulder to see if there was a ghoul-gate opening its jaws to swallow me into the dark city of Ghulheim, leading me to doubt if this truly was a children’s book. Although I generally do not favor the style which Gaiman’s editor Elise Howard (2009) describes as “the episodic nature of the book,” I found it completely appropriate for this tale. Since it is a children’s book, one would expect a story that can be told in chapters, thus making it easier for parents to read a portion of the story every night before bedtime. Finally, admitting that the book was influenced by Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book by no means diminishes Gaiman’s skill in delivering this tale. For this reason, he was awarded the Newbery Medal which honors outstanding contribution to American children’s literature.
Going back to my original question, I continue to wonder what conclusions psychiatrists would draw up regarding Bod. After all, his family was murdered, he was raised in a graveyard by specters, and he has been in so many frightening situations enough to terrify a full-grown man. Would they say that he would grow up to be a disturbed young man because of his experiences? Or would those same experiences have molded him to become stronger than the rest of us? Personally, I believe the love and warmth with which Bod’s ghost family accepted him has already made up for the loss of his real one. Whichever the case, I only make this point to show how curious I am about what Bod will ultimately become. As Gaiman’s daughter Maddy so nonchalantly asked after her father read her the first chapter he wrote, I, too, can only ask, “What happens next?”
One thing is certain though, with Bod’s enthusiasm to live his life to the fullest, his life outside the safety of the graveyard would be peppered with new adventures and characters as elaborate and lively as those resting in his home.
Batwoman
Kate Kane makes her first appearance in Week 7 of 52, DC comics’ yearlong, weekly event following Infinite Crisis, as the rich and beautiful heiress ex-girlfriend of Renee Montoya. The setting is Gotham, and the Kanes are throwing a lavish ball that Renee, currently on the search for information about the gun-running Intergang, has crashed the party to question Kate about the involvement of Kane property in a recent incident. Their relationship clearly ended badly, because after one remark about Kate’s attire has her punching Renee, a good punch if Renee’s rueful surprise is anything to go by. Renee remarks that she looks like she spends most of her time “getting mud baths and facials”, and despite Kate’s initial combativeness, she remains silent about how she lives her life, choosing to not debate about.
This becomes notable only in hindsight, when one remembers that pampered and rich socialite Kate Kane is, at that point, about to make her debut in the comic book world as Batwoman. She is shown in full costume in Week 9, spying on Renee as the other woman goes about her investigation, and continues for the rest of 52 to participate in Renee Montoya’s Intergang investigation. In fact, later on Kate Kane becomes an integral part of the investigation because it turns out that the weapons trading being run by Intergang turned out to be a front for a religious organization. This Religion of Crime had a prophecy that demands that Kate Kane be sacrificed, and they very nearly succeed in killing her, until Kate throws the dagger they used to stab her in the heart to kill the leader of the cult, allowing her and Renee Montoya to escape.
Much like Bruce Wayne’s millionaire playboy persona, Kate has her own cover, as the rich socialite diva that we first meet in 52. However, Kane’s family did not start out as a rich one. In the recent issues of Detective Comics, the longest running-Batman title and currently the property of Batwoman’s adventures, it is revealed that she was a military brat and both parents were part of the United States Army. She and her twin sister, Beth, lived a happy and simple life with their parents until both her Beth and their mother were kidnapped and killed before being recovered. Because of this incident Kate herself became a cadet in the army until she was discharged right before graduation for refusing to deny that she was a homosexual. It was also around this time that her father married the heir to the Hamilton family, elevating them in social status.
Following her discharge, she went to university and became involved with Renee Montoya, then a closeted officer in the Gotham Police Force. Despite both these stabilizing influences in her life, Kate ended up voluntarily dropping out of university, leading to a fight between her and Renee that led to their break-up. That evening, Kate first meets the Batman after defending herself from a mugging. He helps her up and she stares awestruck at him as he goes off into the night and the Bat-signal shines down at her from the sky. According to issue 860 of Detective Comics, Kate starts preparing for becoming Batwoman around five years before the current issues of Detective Comics. Her father discovers her working as a vigilante and while he is skeptical at first about her motives, he comes around and aids her in her training, as well as furnishing her home base and preparing her costume. Kate goes on a two-year training mission around the world before returning in time for the events of 52.
Since then, Kate Kane as Batwoman has been an integral character in the DC Universe. She has appeared in the recent series-spanning events such as Countdown and Final Crisis, as well as in miniseries such as Gotham Underground, Crime Bible: Five Lessons of Blood and Battle for the Cowl. Kate Kane is currently the main focus of Detective Comics and had recently defeated a villain named Alice, another member of the Religion of Crime, and her long thought dead twin sister, Beth.
This becomes notable only in hindsight, when one remembers that pampered and rich socialite Kate Kane is, at that point, about to make her debut in the comic book world as Batwoman. She is shown in full costume in Week 9, spying on Renee as the other woman goes about her investigation, and continues for the rest of 52 to participate in Renee Montoya’s Intergang investigation. In fact, later on Kate Kane becomes an integral part of the investigation because it turns out that the weapons trading being run by Intergang turned out to be a front for a religious organization. This Religion of Crime had a prophecy that demands that Kate Kane be sacrificed, and they very nearly succeed in killing her, until Kate throws the dagger they used to stab her in the heart to kill the leader of the cult, allowing her and Renee Montoya to escape.
Much like Bruce Wayne’s millionaire playboy persona, Kate has her own cover, as the rich socialite diva that we first meet in 52. However, Kane’s family did not start out as a rich one. In the recent issues of Detective Comics, the longest running-Batman title and currently the property of Batwoman’s adventures, it is revealed that she was a military brat and both parents were part of the United States Army. She and her twin sister, Beth, lived a happy and simple life with their parents until both her Beth and their mother were kidnapped and killed before being recovered. Because of this incident Kate herself became a cadet in the army until she was discharged right before graduation for refusing to deny that she was a homosexual. It was also around this time that her father married the heir to the Hamilton family, elevating them in social status.
Following her discharge, she went to university and became involved with Renee Montoya, then a closeted officer in the Gotham Police Force. Despite both these stabilizing influences in her life, Kate ended up voluntarily dropping out of university, leading to a fight between her and Renee that led to their break-up. That evening, Kate first meets the Batman after defending herself from a mugging. He helps her up and she stares awestruck at him as he goes off into the night and the Bat-signal shines down at her from the sky. According to issue 860 of Detective Comics, Kate starts preparing for becoming Batwoman around five years before the current issues of Detective Comics. Her father discovers her working as a vigilante and while he is skeptical at first about her motives, he comes around and aids her in her training, as well as furnishing her home base and preparing her costume. Kate goes on a two-year training mission around the world before returning in time for the events of 52.
Since then, Kate Kane as Batwoman has been an integral character in the DC Universe. She has appeared in the recent series-spanning events such as Countdown and Final Crisis, as well as in miniseries such as Gotham Underground, Crime Bible: Five Lessons of Blood and Battle for the Cowl. Kate Kane is currently the main focus of Detective Comics and had recently defeated a villain named Alice, another member of the Religion of Crime, and her long thought dead twin sister, Beth.
Nvidia
The next generation CUDA architecture, code named “Fermi”, is the most advanced GPU computing architecture ever built. With over three billion transistors and featuring up to 512 CUDA cores, Fermi delivers supercomputing features and performance at 1/10th the cost and 1/20th the power of traditional CPU-only servers. At least that’s what Nvidia wants you to believe. True to form, the hype machine is in full blast as the countdown to Nvidia’s new graphics chipset is winding down. Which is understandable. The company’s primary competitor in the performance graphics card arena, ATI, has enjoyed a comfortable lead in the wallets of consumers for some time now. ATI’s last generation of chipsets, based on the 4000-series, have been lauded for their cost-to-performance ratio. So much so that Nvidia has had to slash its prices for their competing 200-series cards to even merit a second look from buyers. In an article by Charlie Demerjian (2009) on Semiaccurate.com titled “Nvidia kills GTX285, GTX275, GTX260, abandons the mid and high end market”, he outlines the current financial woes of Nvidia, as the company can no longer produce three of its product lines because they can no longer turn a profit, not with ATI cards of similar performance at a lower cost. These are cards which are considered high-end, but the future for their midrange cards are also under dark clouds.
As if being clobbered in the value arena by ATI wasn’t enough, last September ATI launched their new 5000-series of graphics cards with but one intent. Beat Nvidia in the raw performance categories too. Mission accomplished. Nvidia’s current king of the hill, the GTX 295, must now bow down to ATI’s big dog, the Radeon 5970. The value-for-money crown, and now, the “fastest single card on Earth” titles are now comfortably wrapped around ATI’s red waist. Nvidia’s engineers must be feeling the pressure. And the PC enthusiast crowd has been waiting with bated breath how Nvidia will answer.
And the answer is Fermi. Judging by the official Nvidia presentation of the Fermi architecture, which can be perused at http://www.hardocp.com/article/2010/01/17/nvidias_ fermi_gf100_facts_opinions/, the chipset does look impressive on paper. And if the screenshots of actual renders, as shown on http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Nvidia-Fermi-CUDA-GPU-GeForce,8968.html prove to be accurate then there might be hope for Nvidia yet. The architecture is chock full of improvements. Suffice to say everything that could be done to make the old generation faster and more advanced Nvidia’s engineers did, and then some. But the trip from the engineering department to sales is not as smooth as it should be. Fudzilla.com (Abazovic, 2009) reported way back in November that Fermi will not debut for that month or December 2009 as was originally planned by Nvidia. The article projected January 2010 as a more realistic target. It is now February. In an article on Digitimes.com (Chen, 2009) sources state that the official launch will be in March this year. Nvidia’s woes continue.
Meanwhile, ATI continues to churn out cards unopposed. They have just launched the Radeon HD 5670 and 5570 for the mainstream market. No card from Nvidia can stand beside them from a technology/feature set standpoint.
All of this competition spells well for the consumer as it drives down prices. Here’s hoping Nvidia recovers and gets back into the fray. Nobody wants to see a one-sided fight.
As if being clobbered in the value arena by ATI wasn’t enough, last September ATI launched their new 5000-series of graphics cards with but one intent. Beat Nvidia in the raw performance categories too. Mission accomplished. Nvidia’s current king of the hill, the GTX 295, must now bow down to ATI’s big dog, the Radeon 5970. The value-for-money crown, and now, the “fastest single card on Earth” titles are now comfortably wrapped around ATI’s red waist. Nvidia’s engineers must be feeling the pressure. And the PC enthusiast crowd has been waiting with bated breath how Nvidia will answer.
And the answer is Fermi. Judging by the official Nvidia presentation of the Fermi architecture, which can be perused at http://www.hardocp.com/article/2010/01/17/nvidias_ fermi_gf100_facts_opinions/, the chipset does look impressive on paper. And if the screenshots of actual renders, as shown on http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Nvidia-Fermi-CUDA-GPU-GeForce,8968.html prove to be accurate then there might be hope for Nvidia yet. The architecture is chock full of improvements. Suffice to say everything that could be done to make the old generation faster and more advanced Nvidia’s engineers did, and then some. But the trip from the engineering department to sales is not as smooth as it should be. Fudzilla.com (Abazovic, 2009) reported way back in November that Fermi will not debut for that month or December 2009 as was originally planned by Nvidia. The article projected January 2010 as a more realistic target. It is now February. In an article on Digitimes.com (Chen, 2009) sources state that the official launch will be in March this year. Nvidia’s woes continue.
Meanwhile, ATI continues to churn out cards unopposed. They have just launched the Radeon HD 5670 and 5570 for the mainstream market. No card from Nvidia can stand beside them from a technology/feature set standpoint.
All of this competition spells well for the consumer as it drives down prices. Here’s hoping Nvidia recovers and gets back into the fray. Nobody wants to see a one-sided fight.
Dreams
Every single person has a dream that drives them to propel themselves forward in the battle called life. These dreams are the life-force and inspiration people need in order to make the most out of their daily lives. Sometimes these dreams would be as simple as wanting to marry into a good family, or to have three kids that are healthy. Sometimes these dreams are as dramatic as wanting to take over the world, or making a difference in somebody’s life. Whatever a person’s dream might be, it is something that is deeply personal, and it is a great source of motivation.
This brings to mind just how far a person would go in order to fulfill a dream. In the novel Kill Your Darlings (Blacker, 2000), Gregory Keays, the protagonist, stole a manuscript from a dead man in order to publish it under his name. Keays wanted to reclaim the glory he received with his first novel, but he cannot create another manuscript within the same wavelength. Sadly, the dead man’s novel was perfect, and Keays seized the moment and had it published under his own name. Meanwhile, in the novel Her Fearful Symmetry (Niffenegger, 2009) the lead heroine stole her own daughter’s body in order to live again. Both novels spoke of achieving dreams by trampling the lives and aspirations of other people.
At that point, is it worth it? Is achieving the dream enough of a justification to hurt and take away other people’s goals and ambitions? It is a classic tale of the end justifies the means, yet the line must be drawn at some point or another.
Dreams are created for the sole reason that they are the source of joy and escape from a reality a person can look upon to get enough strength to overcome problems. Yet achieving it means that there is nothing else the person can look forward to and work for. Dreams are supposed to keep a person in line, and to motivate a person to be the best that he can be. If dreams are fulfilled by killing the hope and dreams of other people, then it would become a curse.
The same happened with Her Fearful Symmetry (Niffenegger, 2009). Elspeth was a spirit who was on her flat and awaited her daughters to come to her. One of the daughters, the weaker of the twins, Valentina, wanted freedom from being the half of a twin. She witnessed Elspeth remove a cat’s soul and put it back on the cat’s lifeless body, and Valentina thought that if she could die for a moment, her twin will leave her alone and she will get her independence. When the time came for Valentina to be resurrected, Elspeth took Valentina’s body as her own. Soon Elspeth, in Valentina’s body, was able to conceive a child from her lover. Yet her lover left her, because he disgusted Elspeth for tricking Valentina and taking advantage of her own daughter.
Gregory of Kill Your Darlings (Blacker, 2000) also experienced a similar fate. He was killed on the launching of his book, and it was exposed how he took the limelight away from the dead man.
These two novels are proofs that when it comes to fulfilling dreams and ambitions, they should be a positive driving force in life and not something that would make a person do horrible things. Getting a dream realized should give a sense of completion and release, and not give an intangible cloud of despair and horror.
This is the essence of dreams. To drive us forward, and give us strength. Till the moment comes that a person’s dreams are achieved, he can only drift along life, going slowly forward until the end.
This brings to mind just how far a person would go in order to fulfill a dream. In the novel Kill Your Darlings (Blacker, 2000), Gregory Keays, the protagonist, stole a manuscript from a dead man in order to publish it under his name. Keays wanted to reclaim the glory he received with his first novel, but he cannot create another manuscript within the same wavelength. Sadly, the dead man’s novel was perfect, and Keays seized the moment and had it published under his own name. Meanwhile, in the novel Her Fearful Symmetry (Niffenegger, 2009) the lead heroine stole her own daughter’s body in order to live again. Both novels spoke of achieving dreams by trampling the lives and aspirations of other people.
At that point, is it worth it? Is achieving the dream enough of a justification to hurt and take away other people’s goals and ambitions? It is a classic tale of the end justifies the means, yet the line must be drawn at some point or another.
Dreams are created for the sole reason that they are the source of joy and escape from a reality a person can look upon to get enough strength to overcome problems. Yet achieving it means that there is nothing else the person can look forward to and work for. Dreams are supposed to keep a person in line, and to motivate a person to be the best that he can be. If dreams are fulfilled by killing the hope and dreams of other people, then it would become a curse.
The same happened with Her Fearful Symmetry (Niffenegger, 2009). Elspeth was a spirit who was on her flat and awaited her daughters to come to her. One of the daughters, the weaker of the twins, Valentina, wanted freedom from being the half of a twin. She witnessed Elspeth remove a cat’s soul and put it back on the cat’s lifeless body, and Valentina thought that if she could die for a moment, her twin will leave her alone and she will get her independence. When the time came for Valentina to be resurrected, Elspeth took Valentina’s body as her own. Soon Elspeth, in Valentina’s body, was able to conceive a child from her lover. Yet her lover left her, because he disgusted Elspeth for tricking Valentina and taking advantage of her own daughter.
Gregory of Kill Your Darlings (Blacker, 2000) also experienced a similar fate. He was killed on the launching of his book, and it was exposed how he took the limelight away from the dead man.
These two novels are proofs that when it comes to fulfilling dreams and ambitions, they should be a positive driving force in life and not something that would make a person do horrible things. Getting a dream realized should give a sense of completion and release, and not give an intangible cloud of despair and horror.
This is the essence of dreams. To drive us forward, and give us strength. Till the moment comes that a person’s dreams are achieved, he can only drift along life, going slowly forward until the end.
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