The Forgotten Apologist

X years of IT experience

2009-04-11T08:03:00.003+08:00

I learned a new thing a couple of weeks ago. This is the wonderful thing about the dynamic field that we are in - the learning experience is endless. Nobody can claim that he knows everything. To claim so is stupidity.

In our staff house, we are using Telkom Speedy Internet. With it, I can do ftp to the designated site by the company with no problems. I am using Ubuntu Hardy.

However, everytime I tries to connect to the same ftp site when I am using this company's wireless access point, there's always this error:

ftp: bind already in use

With the help of IT, we were able to figure out that it is because I am at Active Mode and I need to do ftp in passive mode. The command should be 'passive' or 'pass'. After executing this command, I was able to do ftp.

=================================================

You may have known by now that I've transferred to other company. I was hoping that it would be a smooth transition phase in my life... but I was wrong.

I had a rift (if you can call it like that) with the section manager of IT in the new company that I am in right now. It's all about disk partition. Yes folks, just disk partition.

We have received our PCs and laptops preloaded with only one disk partition (C:/). I've made a formal request to the IT to consider doing disk partition. We wanted the system disk to be separated from our data disk. My justification? To save important data files in the event that of crash.

The section manager has replied and said that this activity will take long, the justification for the request is not enough, and that we should use the 250GB hard drive in saving data files. It was noticed by my co-workers that he put a signature which is glaringly absent in his other emails - "X years of IT experience". What he is trying to say? That he knows better than me? Maybe, he knows things that I don't know. But there are things that we ought to know and that we cannot buy everything that he says. Lest he forgets, we are engineers. Enough said.

Well, I tried to be as diplomatic as much as possible. I thanked him for taking time to answer my (our) request. I then said that if it will take his group too long a time to repartition the disk then we should live with just one partition. I also said that the event of crash should be enough justification of my request. I then gave an example wherein I was able to repartition my 160GB hard drive in my ACER laptop without any problems or data corruption (first, when I did Vista-Ubuntu dual boot. Next, when I tried to increase the allocated space for my Ubuntu). I then indicated that I was closing the request.

This section manager replied that the company does not allow dual boot. And in the event of crash, we just need to leave it to the IT.

I must admit that blood has rushed to my head. Is he really the section manager?

I replied to his email instinctively like a lion going for a kill. I said that the Vista-Ubuntu dual-boot was just an example to show that repartition is possible without the need for reformatting and that I experienced no data corruption or whatsoever. Well, in our case, we are just starting. Not much data to lose if ever there will be data corruption. I don't know if this has come across his mind (I didn't mention that in my email because it would come out as rude).

I also said that I know very well that the employees cannot do everything to the PCs and laptops loaned by the company. I ended my email saying that hard drive crash or system crash, we will leave it to the IT.

The saga did not end here. He then replied "copying Xxxx Yyyy". Haha. That was our manager that this section manager put in the email loop.

Geesh!

When the new chapter unfolds

2009-04-10T23:13:00.002+08:00

It has been a long time since I last posted here in my blog. No, I have no plans yet of abandoning this little space of mine in the cyberworld. It is just that many things had happened to me these past couple of weeks that left me with no choice but to focus more on the more important things, and leave what I have been used to do for a long time now - pexing, internet surfing and blogging.

Hey, I'm back. There are many things that I want to tell you my faithful readers (there are about two of you as per my last count Haha). Let us start, shall we?

===================

First, I am now back in the Philippines from my three month assignment in Batam, Indonesia. It's nice to be back home. I missed the people, the noise of the city, the buildings, the busy sidewalks occupied by streetwalk vendors. The moment I stepped my foot outside of NAIA, I felt the same old familiar feeling... it's a nice tingling feeling (minus the fumes that the air in the city brings).

I don't know whether I will be back to Batam. I don't know when I will visit Singapore again. Travelling is such a wonderful thing. I hope that the next one will be in Japan or in Europe.

===================

After x long years, I left the company I've been working at. I loved this company. I've learned a lot of things here. This is where I got my first job right after I've graduated and passed the licensure exam for ECE. It's hard to say goodbyes. The world we are in is small. We'll see each other again.

===================

Working with a new company gives you that strange feeling - uncertainties, worries, excitement, challenges, eagerness to prove yourself, Will I ever like my co-workers? Are they gonna be arrogant fools? Are they gonna be easy to work with? Will they live up to my expectations? Will I live up to their expectations? How about the management? How about my career? Was it a wise move to abandon ship?

====================

This is the time for lenten season. One of those times in a year to reflect regarding your faith and your relationship with God.

Actually, there are many questions boggling my mind for a long time now. Why did God make this world wherein people believe in different things. Why did God make people who don't believe in HIM? Why did God make some of my friends believe in different worldviews?

It was a little disheartening to know that some of my friends (old and new) turned out to be either agnostics or atheists. Though it is not for me to judge them, I still wish that they were not atheists nor agnostics. However, I've made friends with them not because of their faith (or lack of it). I've made them my friends because of the interests that we share. But, I still can't help but think, could it have been any better if GOD made our situation any different?

==================

I am using SMART BRO right now here at my hometown in Bulacan. Luckily, there's a signal (although the speed is still something to be desired upon).

Unfortunately, I still have to figure out how can I use SMARTBRO with my Ubuntu. It's not working. That's why I need to use my Vista just to be connected to the cyberworld. Hopefully there's a way to make my broadband work with Ubuntu.

=================

A new chapter unfolds in my life right now. Quite exciting, eh?

Till my next post... see you!

Batam Houses Part2

2009-03-11T15:33:00.014+08:00

This is the second part of my post on different beautiful houses that I've seen here at Batam. These houses are found in Bukit Sukah Jadi. I have included the church here just to bless this post. Haha.

Note that all pictures were taken using my ever reliable Nokia N82 phone. All of which were taken while I'm inside a moving car, so please forgive me if these are a little bit blurry.

USB Hard DIsk Volume label

2009-03-11T09:02:00.004+08:00

In my previous blog post, I've mentioned about a problem on renaming volume label of partitioned disk using gparted. For FAT32 and NTFS, there's a workaround. You just have to connect it to Windows and you can change it easily by clicking on it and renaming the volume label. But how about ext3 and ReiserFS? These two cannot be recognized on Windows (XP or Vista) without installing a program (which escaped me as of this moment).

I found an interesting thread in Ubuntu help forum which answered my questions.

Basically, the following needs to be installed by executing the command below in your terminal:

>> sudo apt-get install e2fsprogs
>> sudo apt-get install reiserfsprogs

(Actually, these files have already been installed before. You can also use the Synaptic Package Manager)

Afterwhich, execute the following commands:

>> sudo fdisk -l

This is to see all disks/devices mounted in your system and the corresponding file system.

Example:
Device Boot Start End Blocks Id System
/dev/sdb1 1 2675 21486906 b W95 FAT32
/dev/sdb2 2676 57503 440405910 83 Linux
/dev/sdb3 57504 112331 440405910 7 HPFS/NTFS
/dev/sdb4 112332 114942 20972857+ 83 Linux

Note: Remember to unmount the devices before executing the instructions below:

For ext3 filesystem:

>> sudo e2label

Example:
>> sudo e2label /dev/sdb2 Tesla-Ext3

For reiserfs filesystem:
>> sudo reiserfstune -l

Example:
>> sudo reiserfstune -l Maxwell-RFS /dev/sdb4

Unmount the said devices then plug it in after a few seconds. The mountpoint/volume label should have taken effect by now.

Reason why I need to change the volume label? It's rather distracting to see 22GB disk, right? It is not descriptive enough.

Trip to Sentosa

2009-03-09T14:09:00.011+08:00

It's my first time to Sentosa. Yes, even if others have advised me not to go there, we, as a group, still opted to spend one day at Sentosa last Saturday.

Why? Because we just felt like it. Among the staff currently based here at Batam, we are the only ones left who have not gone there.

It was an adventure for us - searching for the place where to board the monorail train, figuring out where and how to buy a ticket, what to do next upon reaching our destination, reading the maps, finding the merlion, etc.

At the 3rd level of Vivo City, there's a monorail train station going to Sentosa (I was planning to take the cable car, but since it was expensive and the monorail train ticket is for one day pass already, we opted to take the latter). There's an automatic ticketing booth located strategically in front of the monorail station. The one-day pass ticket cost S$3.

There are three stations all in all - Vivo City, Imbiah Station and Sentosa Station. We took off at the last station - Sentosa. You can either take a walk around the place, or ride the tram service. Since we don't know the place yet, and it is quite hot we were sweating all over, we took the tram service.

We went to Siloso Beach. It's a nice beach with people, majority teenagers, playing beach volleyball. Maybe we came at the wrong time since we rarely saw girls in their best swimming attire. Haha.

We walked our way to the bus station. This, I've learned, is free. Nice. The government is really do something good. We took the blue bus and we went to Imbiah Lookout. From there, we went our way towards the merlion. It was a beautiful sight (maybe because it's the first time I saw it for real).

After some picture taking sessions, we went back to Vivo City via monorail train at Imbiah Look-out station.

If you'd notice, we didn't see any attractions - Songs of the Sea, Magic show, etc. Those packages cost dearly (>S$20).

Over-all, it was a nice experience. Hoping to see the attractions next time.
Rating: 4.3/5.0

Note: All pictures taken using my ever-reliable N82. Thanks also to Dennis and George who served as my models. Haha.

Nagoya Hill Mall

2009-03-09T13:41:00.011+08:00

I am a kind of a guy who loves malling. Almost all the items and services that you need and that you're looking for, you can find it in the malls. Aside from that, I love looking at the people passing by. Looking at how beautiful they are, how they carry themselves, what they're feeling - I enjoy it all.

Here at Batam, Indonesia, there are only few malls that I can say good enough (but not good enough to be compared to SM, Gateway, Trinoma, Robinsons and Shangri-la in the Philippines). Panbil Mall is like Metropolis Alabang. Nagoya Hill Mall is better than Panbil, but it seems lacking. The ambiance is rather good. Maybe there are not enough people going here. It's not as crowded like SM. However, the goods are relatively cheaper here. There are many food stalls here, but a little bit pricey if you convert to Philippine Peso.

Next time you visit Batam, go visit Nagoya Hill. Lots of good buy.

Note: All pictures were taken using my ever-reliable N82.

Manipulating Western Digital MyBook using GPARTED

2009-03-08T21:52:00.008+08:00

Most people who I've seen posting in different forums, who have purchased Western Digital My Book, have opted to reformat their USB hard disk drive from FAT32 to NTFS (or ext3).

Many have reasoned out that NTFS would be safer than FAT32. For security purposes, it is better to have the disk formatted to NTFS. This site clearly explains the difference in detail.

Another advantage of NTFS over FAT32 is the filename. FAT32 has limitation where filenames should have limited length.

In the future, I am planning to use this USB external hard drive to boot an OS (could be Windows 7 or XP). Hence, I want to allot a small portion for FAT32. As explained by Russel (in the site that I've mentioned above), NTFS used to be not available on other operating systems you have installed on the same computer (not true anymore with linux if you have enabled NTFS-3G patch kernel), or you have come to boot from the floppy.

Also, since I'm using Linux (Ubuntu Hardy) most of the time in my dual-boot ACER laptop (Windows Vista is the other OS installed), I also need to allocate space for ext3. Although with the NTFS-3G enabled, it seems that ext3 is also a logical choice since it's compatible with linux and it has its own advantages. You may want to check this link for details.

How did I make the partition?

Note that I am using Linux here.
1. Enable the NTFS-3G and NTFS-CONFIG via the Synaptic Package Manager.
2. Download gparted
>> sudo apt-get install gparted
3. Open gparted (GNOME PARTITION EDITOR) via SYSTEM -> ADMINISTRATION -> PARTITION EDITOR
Wait till it finished scanning available devices. Also, ensure that your USB hard drive is connected so that it will get recognized.
4. In the upper right hand corner, you will see the devices scanned. Select /sdb.
5. Now you can see the USB hard drive. Please ensure that before you proceed to the next step, you have back-up the files stored in the USB hard drive. I did this just in case.
6. First, resize the partition according to your need.
7. Select its format (FAT32 or ext3 or NTFS).
8. Select type of partition (Primary, logical or extended).
9. Click Apply for the changes to take effect. Note that the procedure to be done are indicated at the bottom. You can make everything that you need to do applied at once, or do it one at a time.
10. You can view the properties of each allocation by clicking on it.

One problem that I have with GPARTED is that the partitioned disk has no label. Based on the their website, it was already resolved in gparted 3.0.6. You can use your XP or Vista to rename the volume label (for XP right click then choose Properties. Enter your volume label). In this way, the disk won't show as 22GB disk or 420GB disk.

I'm now currently doing back-up of my files in my IBM laptop. It's about 20GB of files. Based on the rate it's going, it will take about 4hours to finish. I'll let you know.

Disclaimer: Before you do anything your USB hard drive, please ensure that you understand what you're doing and that you have searched helpful sites in the internet. In no way that this author would be liable if your USB hard drive got brick or rendered useless.

I recommend the following internet sites:
https://answers.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/linux-ntfs/+question/39890
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=419692&page=2
https://answers.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+question/2866
http://techgurulive.com/2008/09/17/converting-from-windows-to-linux-hard-drives-ntfs-to-ext3/
http://www.linuxquestions.org/questions/linux-general-1/ntfs-vs-ext-file-systems-78636/

UPDATE:
The back-up of 20GB data disk took about 4 hrs to finish. So that's 5GB/hr.

I was actually thinking before I have started doing the back-up, what would happen if the power was cut-off?

And it happened. About an hour ago, the power was cut-off. Luckily the back-up was already completed 2am this morning. When the power came back, I checked the disk and it is perfectly alright. I plugged it to my other laptop running with Ubuntu linux and the files are all OK. I've even tried playing mp3 and movies. :D

Western Digital 1TB MyBook

2009-03-08T18:12:00.005+08:00

Finally, I have a reason to spend good money. I need to back-up the files in my IBM laptop. In this mission, I would need a good reliable external hard drive.

I did my canvas of the available external hard drives here at Singapore. A 320GB passport cost around PhP6000. That is more expensive than what we saw in Singapore. Hence, we had decided to wait till last Sunday before we buy one.

We went to Challenger at Vivo City in Singapore yesterday. There are various external hard drives of different shapes and sizes to choose from.

At first, my dilemma was which one to buy - a 500GB Maxtor passport or a 1TB Western Digital MyBook? Both cost S$199.

Maxtor Passport:
1. Portable. Small size.
2. Lightweight
3. USB connection.
4. No separate power needed.
5. Maximum size = 500GB

Western Digital MyBook:
1. Bulky (about 5" x 4" x 2")
2. Relatively heavier
3. USB Connection.
4. Needs separate power source
5. Maximum size = 1TB

Passport wins in #1, #2 and #3, but MyBook wins in #5. Why then did I choose MyBook? Primarily because of the size. I can live with a bulky (but not that much of a bulk, heavy and additional power source. The reason I bought a MyBook because I need more space to store my files and to back-up my laptops (Acer and IBM).

I'm also planning to buy a passport one of these days so that I will have something to carry with me in my workplace.

Next topic: Making a partition on my Western Digital Mybook

Note: Effectively, the price of MyBook is only S$189 as S$10 GST will be refunded when I go back to Philippines. Hep-hep-hooray!

Farewell Francis M.

2009-03-08T13:20:00.005+08:00

Before Andrew E and Gloc9, there was an icon named Francis M.

I learned this sad news last Friday while we are at our regular meeting with the staff back there at the Philippines. My manager blurted out that Francis Magalona is dead. I thought it was a joke, but why would my manager say such a bad joke. Then I realized, yeah, it must be true. True and sad.

One of the pillars of OPM (Original Pilipino Music), Francis M. will surely be missed. His "Mga Kababayan Ko" started the rap trend in this country. No, he started a music with relevance to our country. He was a patriotic man. You can see it in the lyrics of his songs.

He also gave value to our youth. His song "Ito ang Gusto Ko" eloquently put it in words.

The pain of being alone, longing for the love that left you in the dark - you can feel it in the song "Cold Summer Nights"

credits to tribongpinoy00

Lastly, his long dream was for our country to reunite again and achieve the peace that we are all looking for. "Kaleidoscope world", one of my most favorite songs, elucidates this dream.

Francis M, the master rapper, may you rest in peace man... and thank you.

Kaleidoscope World - Francis Magalona

So many faces, so many races
Different voices, different choices
Some are mad, while others laugh
Some live alone with no better half
Others grieve while others curse
And others mourn behind a big black hearse
Some are pure and some half-bred
Some are sober and some are wasted
Some are rich because of fate and
Some are poor with no food on their plate
Some stand out while others blend
Some are fat and stout while some are thin
Some are friends and some are foes
Some have some while some have most

Every color and every hue
Is represented by me and you
Take a slide in the slope
Take a look in the kaleidoscope
Spinnin' round, make it twirl
In this kaleidoscope world

Some are great and some are few
Others lie while some tell the truth
Some say poems and some do sing
Others sing through their guitar strings
Some know it all while some act dumb
Let the bassline strum to the bang of the drum
Some can swim while some will sink
And some will find their minds and think
Others walk while others run
You can't talk peace and have a gun
Some are hurt and start to cry
Don't ask me how don't ask me why
Some are friends and some are foes
Some have some while some have most

Every color and every hue
Is represented by me and you
Take a slide in the slope
Take a look in the kaleidoscope
Spinnin' round, make it twirl
In this kaleidoscope world

Naruto 438: Breaking the Seal

2009-03-08T11:27:00.004+08:00

Naruto 438: Breaking the Seal has been posted at onemanga since last Friday. You can read it over this link.

Naruto, with all his anger when he witnessed the "death" of Hinata, transformed into a six-tailed Kyuubi. He didn't know that Hinata is still alive (yehey!) but barely breathing because of the beating that she has received from Pein.

With 6 tails, Naruto spells danger to Konoha. Everyone was advised to leave since the destruction that Naruto will be brought upon the village is inexplicable (as experienced by Sakura and confirmed by Katsuyu). The seal has been broken (the necklace given by Godaime Hokage Tsunade-sama was destroyed by Naruto himself). Yamato, while in reconnaissance to capture Kabuto together with Sai (so he's there all along) and Anko (nice to see her back, maybe we can see her in more action), has sensed that Naruto broke the seal. As we all know, only Yamato can control the Kyuubi using the technique of Shodaime Hokage.

We can see that Pein's shinra tensei and bansho tenin don't work with Naruto's fox form. He pulled away from the village and Naruto followed him. Pein performed the seal of Chibaku Tensei. We have to wait for the next chapter to see this technique.

What an action-filled episode. One of the best.
Rating: 4.9/5.0

My Predictions:
1. Yamato will try to control Naruto, but this will only cause a problem. Yamato might die.
2. Pein to capture Naruto.
3. Konoha nins to follow Pein to save Naruto.
4. Sasuke to appear in the next chapter.

Note: The pic shown here is from onemanga scanlated by Sleepy Fans

Bleach 348: The Lust 2

2009-03-08T10:54:00.004+08:00

Bleach 348 entitled "The Lust 2" is already out at onemanga. You can read it over this link.

As the title suggests, this is the continuation of the last chapter, where Ulquiorra showed Ichigo how powerful he is. It seems like the first release was not enough to elicit fear from Ichigo, he transformed into Resureccion Segunda Espada. You can only just imagine how immense the spiritual energy being released here. As per Ulquiorra, not even Aizen has seen him like this and he is the only espada who was able to reach this stage. Wait a minute, does it mean that he's stronger than Primero espada? I don't think so. Maybe in his second release, Ulquiorra is still no match even to the Trecera espada (you know, that one with the big boobies). Ishida felt how dense is the spiritual energy engulfing the tower, if not the whole Hueco Mundo. Lest, we forget he is more keen in analyzing the spiritual energies around him, probably in the same level of the best of the shinigami.

Ichigo has shown no fear. He went back to his hollow form, but unsuccessful. He could not fend off the attack of Ulquiorra.

Ichigo: I fight not because I think I could win. I fight because I need to win.

Now, that's one quotable quote from Ichigo. Way to go, Ichi. However, the last frame showed us Orihime witnessing a fatal blow received by Ichigo (and was that a big hole in Ichigo's stomach?)

Over-all, it's a better chapter than the last one. I anticipate the next one to be better than this. There's no other way for Ichigo but to go up (or for other captains to show up... woohoo).

Rating: 4.5/5.0

My Predictions:
1. Ichigo is not dead (of course). Either Orihime or Unohana to heal him (or revive him from death). I'm betting that it would be Orihime, but I would like it to be Unohana. It's time for Unohana to shine.
2. Ulquiorra to attack Ishida and Orihime. Orihime to awaken her power to save herself and Ishida (and Ichigo) from danger. But before that, they would be in a near death situation.
3. Unohana to save the day.
4. Ichigo might be able to release a 2nd form of his bankai (like that of Byakuya).

Note: The pics shown here is from onemanga, scanlation by Sleepy Fans

Discussion: Caring for the Lonely Children of Divorce

2009-03-05T16:54:00.003+08:00

Another insightful article from tothesource has come out. The effects of divorce to the children, and what we, as a community, can do about them. You can check the link here. I've also put the whole article below for your convenience.

written by Elizabeth Marquardt

In the U.S., there are approximately one million more children of divorce every year, joining the ranks of at least a quarter of their peers whose parents are already divorced.

The burgeoning numbers born to parents who never marry in the first place – now almost forty percent of births – swell their ranks even further. If these children don’t lose contact completely with a parent they shuttle between two households, often filled with full, step-, or half-siblings, or the children of mom or dad’s girlfriend or boyfriend. They have stepparents and parents’ live-in partners. Their busy working parents might rely on grandparents, sitters, or after-school programs to fill the child-care gaps. It would seem that everywhere they go the children of divorce are surrounded by people, and there are literally millions upon millions in the same situation. And yet their spiritual condition – the memories and struggles they most often recall when they grow up and reflect on it all – can be summed up by one simple word: alone.

Growing up, the children of divorce feel lonely, set apart, adrift, too often misunderstood. In the crazy whirl of modern society and chaotic family lives they soldier along as child-sized old souls, acquainted with losses they are not yet able to articulate, looking to their parents, teachers, and church leaders for solace and answers which these adults are too often unable or unwilling to give.

In a nationally-representative study I conducted with Professor Norval Glenn of the University of Texas at Austin, first reported in my book Between Two Worlds, the grown children of divorce were only half as likely to recall that they went to one or both parents for comfort when they were younger, instead often going to peers – either siblings or friends – or dealing with their troubles alone. They had profound issues with respect and forgiveness of their fathers, and many of them had similar troubles with their mothers as well. They felt less protected by their parents and more responsibility to care for younger siblings. They more often felt like outsiders in their own homes, and only a minority strongly agreed that they felt emotionally safe as children. When they grow up, the children of divorce are more likely to say that they depend on their friends more than their families. Though many of them had passing acquaintance with the church, and most describe themselves as spiritual and believing in God, they are far less likely than their peers from intact families to be religious, to be a member of a faith community, or to be a leader in a faith community. Of those who were active in a church at the time of their parents’ divorce, two-thirds say that no one from the clergy or congregation reached out to them at that time.

When I interviewed these young people what struck me is how often they sought out the church as children all by themselves. These children and teens often did not go to church with even one parent, much less two.

Twelve-year old Angela was attracted to her stepmother’s Lutheran faith but fell away when the Lutheran pastor and her own mother did not take seriously her spiritual questions and struggles. Melissa fell away from an Episcopalian tradition that promised that God was like a loving father who is always there for you, yet God’s seeming lack of response to her prayers too painfully evoked her own father’s lack of response to the letters she wrote to him so faithfully. Katy shared her strong Roman Catholic faith with her mother, but in the summers when she lived with her father he would drop her off alone at Mass and drive away.

Ashley’s busy working mother left the care of her four children to her own mother. Ashley’s grandmother took her and her siblings to church when they were younger, but when Ashley was twelve her grandmother died. Her older siblings gradually stopped attending church. For a while, Ashley continued getting on the city bus to go to church by herself, but she soon fell away too. She recalled, “There were a couple of other kids who, you know, the parents would slow the car down and let them out.” She sat with those kids, set apart from “the kids who there with their parents…in the pews that were close to the front.”

Only some, like Michael, recalled attending a youth group with a friend and finding a loving, faith-filled youth leader who drew him into the full life of the church, where Michael remains a leader today.

The church is called to the vulnerable and voiceless, and surely prominent among them are children whose families have broken up. Yet to listen to the stories of children of divorce is to hear, so often, heart breaking stories of children and teens who sought out the guidance and comforts of faith only to fall away because they were not seen, or understood, or helped. Their stories do not fit into the neatly-packaged children’s ministry model of children transported happily to church in the loving company of their mother and father. They are different, and there is no congregation in this country whose members and whose community remains untouched by the scars of family break up.

So what are churches doing to make sure there are more “Michaels,” more young people who, even if they show up without their parents, are welcomed into the full life of the church? To learn more I called Linda Ranson Jacobs, executive director of Divorce Care for Kids, which publishes a sensitive, Bible-based curriculum now in use by over two thousand congregations in the U.S. and around the world. Most of the children served by these programs do not come from within the congregation. These are ministries that enable congregations to reach out into the community to help suffering children who may not be showing up on Sunday morning. Children who have been through the program say it is a fun, safe place. They gain a sense of belonging in the church and hear a strong message that God’s word is for them too. Their parents and teachers say they notice a difference in the children’s behavior at home and at school. They feel less fear and more hope, and behavior problems can improve.

Two thousand congregations is a great start. But why aren’t far more congregations trying this out? Ranson Jacobs says she hears two or three main reasons why they don’t. Church leaders say that they can’t find leaders to run the program. Or they say they tried it but “only” two kids showed up. Or, most startling, some will tell her that there just isn’t a need in their community. Ranson Jacobs has responses to all of these points.

She has found that the most powerful adult leaders to run a Divorce Care for Kids program are adults who went through their own parents’ divorce as children. They know the pain. And, because they are in the church, they know the rich potential for hope and healing the church holds for these children. They make fantastic, motivated leaders – once you find them. But because of their own histories they are not always found sitting in the front pew or attending the pastor-parish board meeting. They don’t have a big sign on their foreheads that reads “child of divorce,” and Ranson Jacobs observes that these potential leaders “don’t always feel worthy to step up and serve.” But if church leaders pray to be led to these people, they will find them.

She also emphasizes that a church should start a ministry even if only two or three children show up – in fact, when dealing with young children, small is good. These children need safe places and strong personal relationships. And once word gets out, more children will come.

Finally, it’s clear that any congregation who thinks there isn’t a need for ministries to children from broken families simply has its head in the sand. Today, no corner of America is untouched by this suffering. We can debate how best to respond to the problem, but we cannot deny that the problem is real, profound, and growing. Congregations who do not respond will find themselves increasingly stagnate, unintentionally isolating themselves from the diverse, complex experience of children and young people today. Congregations who do respond will find themselves developing new leaders, welcoming new children and families into the fold, and becoming leaders in their communities and beyond as together we confront profound social problems that have the potential to break us or make us stronger. I believe that by listening to and caring for the children, by raising up a next generation who knows deep in their hearts that the love of God is promised to them too, that as a nation and as people of faith we will become stronger.

=======================

1. It is alarming how divorce could affect the children. They are first and foremost the victims of divorced families. One would justify that it's for the sake of the children. In the long run, they will be better off if the parents opted for a divorce. But how about the effects to the children? Should we just brush it off?

2. Now we're beset with a dilemma, should we also legalize divorce in the Philippines or should we think about the welfare of the children? It has been an on-going debate for a very long time now. The Catholic church's stand does not waver. We must uphold the sanctity of marriage and divorce can only solve the problem temporarily, but the root and the effects would still linger around, haunting the affected parties especially the children.

3. In my opinion, instead of looking at divorce as a solution, we should focus ourselves on the following:
a. How to make the marriage work? (is there really no hope?)
b. Marry only once you're 100% sure and ready.

4. Nobody can be certain that a marriage will work just before you get married, but I believe that making yourself prepared - mentally, physically and emotionally, should help. It's better than nothing, rather than deciding to get married like you're changing your undies *cough*Britney*cough.

5. If the couples are facing a problem, they should seek professional help. It does not hurt to get outside help to save a marriage.

6. What if the marriage is really NOT working? That's a problem. We have another course of action - be legally separated or have the marriage annulled. I know that there are people who are going to contest these options - why not divorce? The end result are just the same, one would say. However, there are moral and legal implications for the three options. Let's reserve that for some other time.

7. For the children affected by divorced families, a reach-out program could help to let them understand and to let them feel that they're not alone.

What are your thoughts on this?

The Utopia of the Poor

2009-03-04T01:21:00.006+08:00

Suffering is endless. Anxiety abounds. The poor's stomach rumbles to no end, protesting, days of no decent meals.

It has always been the poor. Indeed, they are the ones greatly affected by all the woes and misery of our nation. It's hard to imagine that their condition could get any worse. However, they have stood the test of times. They've seen it all and they will see it through. Some believe that they have to endure the present to gain a better living in the future. Some believe that they have to endure the present but their future still looks bleak. Some believe that they have to live by the day, and hope that tomorrow they will die.

There are many types of poor people: Those who are optimistic and work hard, those who are optimistic but are lazy, those who are pessimistic and work hard, and those who are pessimistic and undeniably lazy.

The optimistic ones who work hard are the ones who deserve our praises. We hear various success stories of rags-to-riches. Inspiring, yes indeed. There are still people who work hard all their lives, but they're not as rich as they want it to be yet. They still persevere because they're optimistic. Who knows when luck come knocking on their doors? It's not good to believe in luck always, but it plays a game that nobody completely understands. Have you read the book "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho? Everything in this world conspires for you to achieve your "dream". It may not be now, it may not be tomorrow, someday it will come. Hope is all they have and that is a virtue - to persevere continuously and not to give up, that deserves accolades and must be emulated.

What the government can do for this people? What we can do, "us" who are in better position than our poor brothers and sisters?

The government must focus on the education of the youth (and of the oldies who are still willing to learn). This is a long term solution. Let ignorance be eradicated from our nation. Let science, math, technology and humanities take over our consciousness. I am biased with math and sciences because these I think are what our poor nation needs, and this I believe will truly help the marginalized sectors of our society realize their dreams. We need more doctors, scientists, engineers, researchers. But we also need more skilled workers, yes? The government can sponsor deserving students, who are not born for a college education, to take vocational courses. The government cannot do it alone. We need the help of the private sector. Again, it's a long term solution. First thing first, we need a BIG budget for this (and corruption in DEPED and CHED to be bygones). The government must think of a way to do it - decrease the debt service perhaps?

Yet, there are poor who don't persevere, and/or who are pessimistic, and/or who are lazy? What they experience, their mindset, the long time of being marginalized and being mendicants and being rejected by our society, neglected by the government officials after being used for the sake of elections... can we really blame them? They are poor and hopeless, not only because they want it to be like that... but because the circumstances make them. We must change this culture in them. We must change their mindset. No, we can only do so much. Again, the answer is in the youth. Education can make them rebel against this hopelessness. Let them realize that there's something beyond the bleak future that nay-sayers tell them. Let us save them from their old folks who are resigned about their unfortunate situation. Let us save them from being drug addicts, snatchers, hold-uppers and murderers.

Too easy to say, but what else can we do? We can only help change their mindset and culture. The government can only do so much. The government can offer free education, free workshop, generate jobs... open up opportunities. The rest still lies on them. Again, education is the key.

Education can change one's heart and spirit to strive for the utopia - the dreamland. It's the dream of that utopia that will make them persevere to get out of this mess and to challenge what seems impossible to the point of view of some people who consider them as pests of this society.

On Parody and Satire

2009-03-03T23:48:00.005+08:00

Good Times Manila is an interesting and entertaining site that I've been visiting for a good laugh and fun. If you're going to visit this site, just remember to read what's this site is about before (over)reacting on whatever you're going to read. Believe me, the articles are hilarious.

However, this site has recently received "constructive criticisms" from some of its guests. You can read here the post and the comments.

I am reprinting here the comments of the guest:

#1

Payo lang kapatid…..

I received an email referring to this site which is supposedly for fun reading. We’ll, it’s not. This site is a joke. I don’t see it as constructive criticism. Your stories and comments are malicious, damaging and irresponsible. These are insults, plain and simple. You can be sued for defamation of character and slander because of these blogs. As I see it, this is simply a desperate attempt to procure business and you’re slowly getting attention. You have a talent but be careful how you use it. You’ll catch fire the moment one of your stories reaches its subject.

I do hope you post this comment. This is constructive criticism.
#2
It doesn’t matter whether they are public figures, no namers or even criminals. We all have the same rights and those rights must be protected. No offense but on a moral ground, I think this is the lowest form of entertainment.

The author of that site has already replied to the guest. You can read them all in the link that I have provided.

So, what do I think of this site? Obviously, I'm still supporting it.

Guess what, I agree with GUEST.

All people must be protected by the law. Freedom of speech is never absolute.

But the question is, where should we draw the line? Of what is offensive and what is “for the sake of entertainment”?

Are parodies or satires form of character assassination? or were they reeking of malicious intent?

It’s hard. Really, quite hard.

If parodies and satires are prohibited by our laws, then the award winning TV show “Abangan ang Susunod na Kabanata” should have been axed on the first night that it was shown. The artists, the writers, the brain behind this show should have been imprisoned by then.

But no. The laughter had continued before it finally said goodbye due to low ratings.

I, in my humble opinion, think that this site has not crossed that line yet. I am enjoying it so I am supporting it.

When do we say that one has been exercising too much freedom? Or is there such a thing as "too much" when talking about freedom?

As I've said, freedom is never absolute. One has to consider the welfare of "others" and of the "state" when dealing with one's freedom. The state can stop you from exercising your freedom when it sees fit. The rights and the freedom that one enjoy are all granted and guaranteed by the state, but within the parameters and conditions set by the latter. If you go beyond that, then there's a necessary consequence.

Therefore, is parody or satire illegal? Obviously NO. If so, then many should have been jailed.

Is it the lowest form of entertainment? Maybe. It depends on your taste and preference.

IWhat do you think?

Review: Mei-chan no Shitsuji Episode 7

2009-03-02T20:54:00.004+08:00

Episode 7 of Mei-chan no Shitsuji is filled with sadness and unexpected moments.

From episode 6, we have learned the "bad" side of Tami, locking themselves in the House of Timelessness together with Mameshiba. It was a surprise to see Tami torturing Mei like this. We all see her as unlady like and doing odd things such as practicing throwing kunai with her butler. A free spirit - that aptly describes her.

Here at episode 7, we have learned that Tami was just pretending. She has been just serving Lucia-sama's interest. A little flashback showed that Tami was indebted to Lucia-sama and she's doing everything to dispose anybody who's a threat to her master, including Mei who is a competition as a heir to the Hongo clan. Tami accused Mei of causing all the mess that has happened in the school, causing the unhappiness of her classmates and of her butler, Rihito.

Fortunately, Tami's butler came to rescue Mei and Mameshiba. Lucia-sama's white butler cum doctor also has come to restrain Tami. Tami's butler has requested to stop making Tami's hands dirty by doing all these, but it all depends on Mei.

Mei didn't divulge in class that it was Tami who almost killed her and Mameshiba. She has decided to drop-out. Was it because of the things that Tami said to her? Probably. But was it because of her classmates' or Rihito's supposedly unhappiness? That, I'm not sure about.

Rihito thinks that he failed in serving Mei. He was not beside her during the time that she was in danger. Although he has already confessed his reasons of chooing Mei to serve, Mei still chose to leave.

In the ending, we saw Rihito waking up with Lucia-sama beside him and watching him. Looks like Lucia-sama has achieved her goal.

Mei torn between two lovers (who happened to be brothers), and her immediate family who wants to get rid of her (Lucia-sama)... what will happen next? Will Rihito stay by Lucia-sama or will he go to Mei's side?

Rating: 4.3/5.0

Ubuntu 9.04 Jaunty Jackalope - Fast and Furious

2009-03-02T15:43:00.007+08:00

It was only recently that I learned that Ubuntu is releasing a new OS called Jaunty Jackalope (Ubuntu 9.04). It's still in alpha release. Beta is to be released soon.

The desktop looks cool and sexy. Just look at the screen capture.

From what I've heard, this OS takes only about 11 sec to boot. That's better than Ubuntu 8.04 Hardy. It's incredibly fast too.

Just check out this forum.

Can't wait for its official release in April.

The Music of Final Fantasy

2009-03-02T11:56:00.003+08:00

Aside from the summons - Anima, Behemut, Ifrit and others, the chocobos, the overdrive, the wonderful graphics and characters, one more thing that makes Final Fantasy appealing to me is the music.

Here are two of my most favorite Final Fantasy OST:

Final Fantasy IX - Melodies of Life

credits to geekster129

Final Fantasy VIII - Eyes on Me

credits to fantasy201

Enjoy!

Sony Ericsson Hikaru

2009-03-01T21:35:00.004+08:00

I have been using three brands of mobile phones since I was in college - Sony Ericcson, Samsung and Nokia.

I have owned a lot of Nokia phones ever since. For one, it is user friendly and I have grown accustomed to its keypad and menu selection. I'm currently using Nokia N82 now (with its cool Xenon flash).

Enough talk about Nokia phones. I noted that Sony Erricson is about to release a new flagship camera/walkman phone tagged as HIKARU. Based on the pictures that we're seeing in the net (mock pictures or not) this phone looks cool with a wide touch screen. We don't know yet if it is QWERTY.

It was leaked (or rumored?) that the specs would be 8MP camera, 8GB internal memory, 3.5mm audio jack and the rest would be basically the same as that of walkman (or even better?). 8MP camera? Better than my Kodak digital PS camera. I am hoping that it has provision for memory card.

Can't wait. Maybe it's time to say good bye to Nokia.

Did You Know - Freezing Point of Pure Water?

2009-03-01T18:52:00.003+08:00

I plan to make a collection of new tidbit of information that I have learned.

This is the first one - freezing point of pure water.

We all know that freezing point of water is 0 deg Celsius. However from this blog, the author wrote:

Did you know that pure water actually freezes at -42 degrees celsius? Zero degrees is when impure water freezes, and the ice crystals grow by forming around bubbles or dissolved impurities in the water. Most of the ice that we're acquainted with comes from water that isn't completely pure. But if you take out all of the impurities and try to freeze it, the water has a more difficult time forming ice, because it doesn't have anything to form crystals around. So to achieve the same effect, you need a lower temperature.

I am still searching for references related to this topic. What I know also is that impurities, like rock salt, decreases the freezing point. I thought that without impurities, the freezing point will be 0C.

Any idea?

An inspiring story about Hope

2009-03-01T17:14:00.004+08:00

While browsing PinoyExchange, I found this thread "just when you're about to give up on life". Good thing that I saw this as I was able to watch a wonderful inspiring video about a man who was born with no arms and legs but who doesn't lose hope.

It is very timely. We are in a difficult time. Economic crisis affecting every sector of our society. Companies closing down. People losing jobs. Price of commodities going up. We all know this. So what are we going to do? It is a test for humanity. Most of us are blessed that we were born without any lacking body parts. Most of us are blessed that we were able to get good education. In times like this, as what Wilson said, we need to get up in spite of the number of times we fell. We must not lose hope.

Google Earth for Linux

2009-03-01T09:47:00.006+08:00

Google Earth is a wonderful and helpful application that you can use to view any part of the world, even your own house. Well, it depends if the location you're looking for has been uploaded to the massive database of Google Earth.

I downloaded the application from this site. File downloaded is GoogleEarthLinux.bin.

To install this, you have to execute this command

> bash GoogleEarthLinux.bin

The file will be decompressed then a window will appear to start installation.

One problem though, everytime I launch this application, everything seems to work fine but after a few seconds it automatically closes and disappears. There could be contention somewhere that I need to debug. Google Help Center is not comprehensive for Linux users. I will try my luck with the Ubuntu community.

Update:
There seems to be a problem with Google Earth ver 5.0. I tried to install the previous version (v4) and it works pretty well. The photo that you see in this post is the skyview of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), my alma mater. The next is a snapshot of our residence in Bulacan. I was a little bit surprise cause that barrio is very small and located very far from the town.

How to install ver4:
This is what I got from this linux help website.

From marcobra:

I have never use this method i think is better to use the Medibuntu repository so i get automatic upgrades

Here the medibuntu packages ready to install list http://packages.medibuntu.org/hardy/index.html

Please simply add the medibuntu https://help.ubuntu.com/community/Medibuntu repository to install Google and other software.

-- Please open a Terminal from the menu Applications->Accessories->Terminal and type or copy and paste:

sudo wget http://www.medibuntu.org/sources.list.d/hardy.list -O /etc/apt/sources.list.d/medibuntu.list

-- give your user password when requested, you don't see nothing when you type it, then press enter

Then type or copy and paste:

sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install medibuntu-keyring && sudo apt-get update

You may be asked to accept this package even though it cannot be authenticated. This is normal; typing "Yes" means you trust Medibuntu.

Then type:

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get upgrade
sudo apt-get dist-upgrade
sudo apt-get install googleearth

Hope this helps

My Favorite Piano Pieces

2009-02-28T16:05:00.002+08:00

Here are some of my favorite piano pieces.

Canon (variation in D major) - I first heard it in the movie My Sassy Girl. The music has helped in invoking the emotion of that scene in the movie.

credits to decheng

Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 - It was in the Korean drama series Beethoven Virus where I first heard this piece. I fell in love with it.

credits to mahni712

Chopin's Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2 - Whenever one hears this piece, one can't help but reminisce the happy moments with the beloved.

credits to theoshow2

What's in your list?

Naruto 437: Confession

2009-02-28T15:21:00.003+08:00

Naruto 437: Confession is already released and can be viewed here.

This is one sad chapter and I know that lots of Naruto fans out there felt sad about what happened here. Many of those who are close to Naruto, his mentors (Jiraiya, Granpa frog and GrandMa frog), his friend (Shizune) are now dead. I purposely took out Kakashi's name in the list because I am not sold to the idea that he is really dead. Maybe he's just sleeping. Haha.

In order to protect Naruto, Hinata did the only thing that she could do right at that moment, that is to offer her life. She did so while confessing that it was Naruto who helped her change and it was Naruto whom she loved and wanted to follow. What a sad unrequited selfish love.

Hinata's death caused Naruto to transform to 6 tailed Kyuubi, but Pein is still unfazed. Whose pain is stronger? Who's going to win?

This is one of the best chapters so far.

Rating: 4.8/5.0

My Predictions:
1. Kakashi is not dead.
2. Tsunade knows to counter-attack bansho tenin. She will help Naruto here.
3. Nagato's hide-out will be discovered by the Konoha ninjas.
4. Another Konoha ninja to die. I bet it is Gai sensei.

Bleach 347: The Lust

2009-02-28T14:46:00.004+08:00

Bleach 347: The Lust is already out in onemanga. Please see this link.

Ichigo was not able to deflect the cero of Ulquiorra. Worse, his hollow form disappeared upon receiving that fatal blow. Fortunately for Ichigo, he wasn't killed. Maybe it helped that Ichigo was in his hollow form.

We also saw Inoue wanting to help Ichigo. I don't know how she could be of any help. Maybe she just wanted to show her support... but really, she needs to step up or she might as well be a hindrance to Ichigo's fight.

Lastly, Ulqiorra revealed her resurrecion form. Ichigo might receive further beating from this guy.

Again, please bear me with my rants, not much happened in this chapter. We all know that Ulquiorra is a monster with unbelievable strength. I wish Kubo would make the turn of events more exciting. Or maybe, somebody must be killed first before Ichigo awaken his more powerful inner strength? Hmmm.

Part of my ranting is that my favorite captain, Unohana, has not joint the melee yet. I am getting impatient now. Haha.

Rating: 4.0/5

My Predictions:
1. Inoue to be killed while trying to save Ichigo
2. Unohona to save the day

Speed Typing Challenge - The Revenge

2009-02-28T12:49:00.003+08:00

I mentioned here in my blog that I plan to take my revenge on Friendster's SpeedTyping Challenge. Well, guess what. I've made a significant improvement. I was able to get through the 600 points psychological barrier. Yahoo.

I am not resting on that feat though. I learned that the highest pointers were able to rack in 2000+ points. Now, how those monsters were able to get so much speed is beyond me.

2000+ points? Are you kidding me? Their fingers must be working like crazy. Haha.

Skype in Linux

2009-02-28T12:37:00.002+08:00

I was disappointed to learn that Ubuntu does not support YM (Yahoo Messenger). Hence, voice chat with video is not possible. If I do have to speak with my relatives and friends, I have to log-out my Ubuntu then log-in to my Vista (one of the reasons why I cannot uninstall my Vista).

Fortunately, I have learned that Skype voice and video calls are supported in Ubuntu. I downloaded the application from this site - SKYPE. Just double-click the file then the synaptic package manager will be opened.

I am troubleshooting it right now. I can make calls, but it seems there's a problem with the sound. Maybe there's a driver that needs to be installed. I'll let you know.

Post Script: It has been almost a week now since my last post. I have been busy in my work. Nice to be back. Haha.

Review: Nintendo DS Bleach The Blade of Fate

2009-02-22T21:56:00.004+08:00

Since I am a fan of Bleach, I thought that it would be nice to play the game version of it. I bought my Nintendo DS-Lite in Singapore almost last October. One of the first games that I've ever played in my Nintendo was Bleach. I had to see if the game would be a blast.

First, there are five modes in the game at the beginning:

1. Story Mode - One has to complete 23 episodes in order to complete this mode. Completing one episode will open up other locked episode. Also, completing each episode will enable you to unlock new characters who can you choose from in other modes of this game (Yuroichi, Ukitake and others). Once you have completed all 23 episodes, two new modes will then be unlocked - Time Attack Mode and Survival Mode. Basically, the story mode shows the chronological events in the Soul Society Arc using different point of views (Ichigo, Chad, Orihime, Ishida and others).

2. Arcade Mode - As the name suggests, you can choose a character to fight in six successive rounds. The available characters depend upon the episodes you have completed in story mode.

3. Versus Mode - You can also select a character here, but unlike in the arcade mode, there's only one round. There can be two to four characters in one game in this mode, depending on your choice.

4. Challenge Mode - I don't play this mode. What's the use?

5. Training Mode - Clearly, it is here where you can train all these moves and attacks.

6. Time Survival Mode - You have to defeat all characters in Bleach, including the captains. Your time will be recorded here.

7. Survival Mode - this is the hardest mode. You also have to defeat all characters in Bleach using your chosen character but the Spirit and Stamina will not be replenished. As of now, I can only defeat up to the character of Renji. By the time I face Ishida, my stamina/spirit is almost gone and I am good as defeated. This makes this game exciting for me.

There are also SPIRIT CARDS that you can use all throughout the game in all fighting modes. These cards can be for reinforcement, defense or special abilities. I rarely use the cards, but if I have to I only use reinforcement for maximum damage. Besides, using these cards to inflict damage on your opponent could only help your opponent to increase it's reiatsu.
Minus Points:
1. The combos are rather difficult to make. Thank God that the special attack moves can be chosen from the touch screen during the game. One touch is all it takes.
2. If you are used to revolutionary PS2 and PSP games, you might dislike the 2D graphics.

Plus Points:
1. Survival Mode is challenging. Anything that is challenging is a plus point for me.
2. Story mode is comprehensive. I also like the shifting of point of views per episode.
3. Aizen, though his power and ability is still unknown up to now, is such a monster in this game. He can use the abilities of other captains.

Favorite Characters:
1. Ichigo for his special attacks
2. Hinamori for her explosive attacks. Her techniques can also help set-up a trap.

Rating: 4.3/5.0

The Cute Bugzies

2009-02-22T09:55:00.008+08:00

Have you watched the movie Bedtime Stories by Adam Sandler? If you did, then you would probably know who Bugzy is. Yes, he's that cute wide-cross-eyed guinea pig owned by the kids in the movie.

This has inspired my friend to get, not one, but two Bugzy like guinea pigs. Of course, he wasn't able to get the exact look-a-like, but they're equally cute just the same.

I attached here the pictures of these bugzies (as what my friend fondly call them). The pictures were sent to my email last night.

What has amazed me the most was the sounds these guinea pigs make. It sounds wonderful. Although, it's a mystery for my friend because he doesn't know whether his pets were angry, agitated or just hungry.

Francis Collin's New Project

2009-02-22T08:01:00.004+08:00

Please see below for the tothesource article that has come out this week (link is here). I have also included my thoughts about this at the end of this post. Enjoy reading.

Francis Collin's New Project
by Jason Steiner

At nearly six and a half feet tall, Dr. Francis Collins stands literally and figuratively head and shoulders above the ongoing conflict between science and religion.

Embracing the rigorous skepticism of the scientific method, Dr. Collins remains fiercely steadfast in his evangelical Christian faith. To many people today who have suffered the onslaught of atheist propaganda proposing that any rationally minded person should have long ago disposed of religion and that the advancement of science is eroding humanity’s need for a God, the appearance of Dr. Collins seems a bit of an anomaly. But for him, straddling both camps is not only the only place he can be intellectually, it is also the most glorifying to God.

As the head of the National Human Genome Research Institute that sequenced the human genome, and one of the foremost geneticists in the world, Dr. Collins embraces evolution, not as the godless random procession of mutations that brought us out of the primordial sludge, but rather the elegant means God used to bring about a creature able to bear His image.

To many Christians, support of evolution is a rejection of all they hold to be true. Dr. Collins contends that a rejection of the intellectual capacities of our minds is even worse. Dr. Collins sees the rigorous employment of our most rational faculties as “the chance to uncover the incredible intricacies of God's creation [in] an occasion of worship”. With this approach, Dr. Collins has come to an “intellectually and spiritually satisfying” conclusion about our origins.

tothesource: What do you, as a scientist, see as your most important steps in coming to a reconciliation between science and faith?

Dr. Francis Collins: “I think that an important first step is to recognize that there does exist a framework with which to fit together the scientific and spiritual worldviews. I’m convinced that there are no fundamental discordances between those perspectives.”

When pressed a little more as to what specifically he sees in nature that convinces him of the existence of God, Collins began to launch into a plethora of what he calls “pointers to God”. He cites things that many would take for granted such as the “unreasonable effectiveness of mathematics,” stating that there is really no reason that the universe should be so ordered. He expounded on man’s deep resonance with this order, citing science’s emphasis on elegance and simplicity and noting that the same fundamental equations continue to appear in nearly every branch of science from the conduction of heat to biological population dynamics and even quantum mechanical fluctuations. Collins' other physical pointers include the incredible fine-tuning of a handful of physical parameters that define our universe, such as the gravitational constant or the value of the strong force that holds protons together. If any of these differed by even the slightest amount (for the gravitational constant even 1 part in one hundred million million) the universe would not have formed in a way sufficient to support life.

On a more metaphysical level, Collins appeals to the Moral Law, described by C.S. Lewis as our innate recognition of good and evil, as an attribute that cannot be explained by natural evolutionary causes alone. While Collins admits that all of these arguments have opposing naturalistic viewpoints such as the argument for the existence of an infinite number of universes to explain the fact that we just happened to fall in the one with the right parameters for life, he is clear to point out that each of these positions takes as much or more faith to believe in than the existence of a designer God. He appeals to Occam’s Razor, arguing that if one observes order and design then the simplest and most plausible conclusion is that there is a designer. In this way Collins finds it logical to believe both in science and God.

tts: In contrast to all other models of fitting science with faith that have crumbled in the wake of future scientific advancement, such as the geocentric theory or the age of the Earth, what is it that makes BioLogos unique?

Collins: “The main difference between BioLogos and other current perspectives on science and religion is that neither of its components is susceptible to conflict with the advancement of science. With regard to its theistic component, science will never be in a position to prove or disprove the existence of God. As for its scientific component, BioLogos doesn’t stray from the general consensus of the scientific community. Even if the “pointers to God” – such as the elegant fine-tuning of the universe – were to fall away with future discoveries, the central message of BioLogos will not be shaken. For example, if the multiverse theory turns out to be true, many of the “pointers to God” from fine-tuning will be lost. But that doesn’t solve the question of beginnings, and it wouldn’t rule out the possibility of a loving Creator who created all of those universes in such a way that one would surely develop intelligent life forms. In fact, I suspect that we would just run up against new examples of a finely-tuned multiverse.”

It was refreshing to see first hand such an accomplished scientist so readily admitting the limits of his profession with a sense of peace about it. I suspect even for honest atheists, the question of “something instead of nothing” is too big for science alone to answer.

====================================

My thoughts:
1. Science and Faith (religion) don't have any conflict as long as we remember that science cannot prove nor disprove existence of GOD, and Faith (religion) cannot go against the evidence of our natural world.

2. It has been noted before, and it is still prevalent now, non-theists would claim that Faith is only but an opium of the masses, the cradle of the faint hearted, the last resort of the idiots. Most of them would go as far as saying that scientific discoveries have already disproved the existence of GOD. Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology have already pushed the GOD out of our universe since He is no use over here. GOD is already superfluous. GOD is nothing but just a human construct and a product of our uncivilized ancestors who don't know enough science and could not explain the phenomena that were happening around them.

3. In contrast, science CANNOT claim anything outside its own capacity. GOD could not be put under the miscroscope to be probed at. Science CANNOT deduce based on the current evidence that GOD don't or cannot exist. That is going beyond the scope of science and pushing oneself to the realm of philosophy. Keith Ward noted in his book that it would be a grave mistake for scientists to act (knowingly or unknowingly) as philosophers when they should be acting as scientists *cough* Dawkins *cough*. Leave philosophy to the philosophers as the addage would say. If one scientist choose to reason out the existence or non-existence of a GOD, he should put down his cloak of science to prevent misrepresentation.

4. Isn't Collins just the same breed since he is actually defending theism? The answer is a NO. You won't hear Collins saying GOD does exist and the atheists are delusional (Dawkin's The GOD Delusion, remember?). Collins only says that there should be no conflict between science and Faith (religion). There is a world of differences between the two.

Let me hear your thoughts.

Speed Typing Challenge - Friendster Widget

2009-02-22T00:24:00.004+08:00

I received a Speed Typing Challenge from a number of my friends in Friendster. Well, I never back down on any challenge, so I took it.

I took up Steno-Typing as a vocational elective back in high school. It was here I learned how to type properly. My WAM (word a minute) greatly improved, and I believe that I am above average here (so I thought).

When I took up the challenge, I am quite disappointed. My score is not enough to make it to the TOP 10, or at least TOP 100 highest scorers for today and for the week. I only scored a measly 549 points (ranked 692 this week)

I promise that I shall have my revenge. Haha.

The Memories of Old Manila

2009-02-21T21:08:00.010+08:00

History fascinates me. How the people lived? How the place looked like? How did they manage to survive? If we were to go back in time to see it for ourselves, wouldn't it be nice?

I remember when I did my case study on senility, I interviewed my only living grandparent. Her name is Lola Sion. She has survived many wars and battles, economic woes and depression. She has seen presidents come and go. She has seen how terrifying the Japanese was. She has experienced it all.

One of the stories she told me was the difficult times during the Japanese regime. The terror. They feared death. The economy was no good. Rice was scarce. She was living with her own family back then (my father was not yet born) in Tondo, Manila. The price of commodities was high. In order to save, they used the burnt rice (tutong), ground it and mixed with water to make an alternative for coffee.

Hearing stories like this from people who have experienced it first hand is truly a blessing. Too bad that I was not able to get a copy of the case study that I've submitted for my Psychology class.

====================

I've found in the youtube a wonderful video about OLD MANILA (credits to jctomoptics)

You gonna see in this video the Intramuros. I've been there five years of my adolescent life. It's good to see that the Intramuros of old is still well preserved up until now.

The owner of this youtube video has also made a relevant post to this topic on his blog. Please click here.

Isn't it wonderful to know that there are still preserved videos out there of our own country? I hope that there are still more.

MS Excel Problem #1 - How to count items based on colors of the cells?

2009-02-21T12:38:00.007+08:00

In my work, to be efficient in MS Excel is a must. There are lots of data gathering, manipulation and presentation that need to be done for our engineering reports.

Because of this, I've learned MS Excel. I don't say I'm THE EXPERT, but I'm better than above average. I still have lots to be learned. That's what I have discovered here at work. My co-workers would ask me how to do this and that given this and that data with this and that format. I've learned new things in the process. I would like to share with you some of those.

Problem #1: One sheet of raw data has colored cells into it. These colors were manually selected by a previous user to mark the cells accordingly (in other words, each color has its own significance). The problem is, how to count the items per each color? Let us consider that the items to be counted are >1000 cells. Manual counting is out of the question.

You have one week to think about it. Enjoy!

Incubus' Drive

2009-02-21T09:35:00.004+08:00

Laughter. One picked up the remote and keyed-in the song he selected on the karaoke. Silence. Then the music played.

Drive by Incubus.

In one of our karaoke sessions, I've heard this song being sung by my colleague. I liked it when I first heard it. The music is good. The lyrics are not bad. The song speaks of assurance and bond of two individuals. This is the best song I've ever heard from Incubus.

Here's the youtube video (credits to Roncu)

Who said that karaoke does not bring any good?

The Best F4 for me...

2009-02-20T22:16:00.004+08:00

The nominees for the BEST F4 are:

(drumroll)

Meteor Garden - Taiwan

(Dao Ming Xi: Xie xie *waves*)

Boys Over Flowers - Korea

(Jun Pyo: Ku-ma-o *smiles*)

Hana Yori Dango - Japan

(Domyoji: Arigato gozaimasu *posing*)

... and the winner is

(drumroll)

Boys Over Flower - Korea!

(applause, applause)

Yes my friends, tomodachi, shingo, Boys Over Flowers - F4 deserves the much coveted la_flash's nod for BEST F4.

This is the result of five hours non-stop deliberation by various neurons in la_flash's brain on which group deserves the award based on the following much thought about criteria:

1. Looks/Personality - No doubt that the Korean lead actors take the cake on this one. I did a survey on my female friends and 90% (9/10) voted for this Korean group. I also asked them, who they thought is the hottest among the four Koreans. The result was a tie between Kim Bum and Min Ho.

Korea - 10pts
Taiwan - 8pts
Japan - 5pts

2. Chemistry - All three groups have chemistry on screen. You can really feel the bond among the members. In this category, the Taiwan group edged out Korea by a slight margin.

Taiwan - 10pts
Korea - 9pts
Japan - 8pts

3. Acting - Japan wins here (I'm biased since I'm a jdorama addict). However, the Korean group is not far behind. I also prefer Jun Pyo over Dao Ming Xi, but Hua Zi Lei is better than Jin Hoo. You can really feel the anger and jealousy of Jun Pyo.

Japan - 10pts
Korea - 8pts
Taiwan - 6pts

If you want to air your grievances or to protest the result of this award, please leave a comment here.

(As of this writing, MG leads the poll)

Nokia N82 battery problem

2009-02-20T18:12:00.004+08:00

Ten months. My Nokia N82 cellphone is only 10month old. It has been good to me for the past months. No problems with application, camera, in messaging or media player.

I've noted though since last January 2009 that my battery had been running out fast. I needed to charge my N82 everyday. Please note that I used to charge after two days before (the longest was after three days). Considering that even if I didn't play games or I was not listening to music or I wasn't talking over the phone, the charge have always been one bar at the end of the day. This is really strange.

If I would have to change my battery, I wouldn't settle for Class A batteries, which can be bought in Recto or in Greenhills. I want to buy original ones. Experience tells me that class A batteries don't last long. These are cheap, but not durable.

I was decided then that I would buy original N82 battery either here at Batam or in Singapore. However, if the price is cheaper in the Philippines, I'll just get through this predicament until I go back there.

A fortunate thing has happened. As I was reviewing the installed applications in my N82, I discovered that STEP COUNTER application was defaulted to running/enabled mode upon power-up of the unit. This application uses the gyro feature of the unit, and it consumes power.

The problem is now solved. My N82 phone is now running smoothly. My battery lasts long now. Like now, it has been two days already but I still have 4 charge bars.

Bleach 346: The Wrath

2009-02-20T17:24:00.003+08:00

Bleach 346 is now out. Check it out here.

First, I really don't know why it was entitled as "The Wrath". This chapter didn't show nor imply anything about "wrath".

Second, we were able to know (or to confirm) that Ulquiora is really strong. Even stronger than Ichigo at his current state now. The getsuga didn't work. Ulquiora is faster than Ichigo in his hollow form. It's a lopsided battle for now.

Third, nice cliffhanger. Will Ichigo dodge the Cero? or can he deflect it? or will Kubo grant my wish for Unohona to join in the battle to help Ichigo? Haha.

Over-all, it's just an ok but underwhelming chapter.

My previous predictions didn't come true. Please check here.

My predictions for chapter 347:
1. Unohona to deflect the cero of Ulquiora.

Rating: 3.9/5

Naruto 436: Peace

2009-02-20T15:03:00.004+08:00

The much anticipated Naruto Chapter 436, entitled "Peace", is now out in onemanga. Please see this link.

This chapter reveals two things:
1. The real motive of Pein in creating Akatsuki is to destroy everything so as to end all suffering and hatred. That is his way to achieve peace, which is completely opposite to that of Naruto. Here, we once see again two conflicting ways of two major characters in achieving the same goal.
2. Nagato is somewhere UP in a high place near Konoha. The most surprising thing here is he looks like an uncool impoverished malnourished emo kid (not to offend the emo kids out there).

Can Konoha get out of this mess. Will Inoichi, Shikamaru and otherrs get to find the real Pein before Pein gets the Kyuubi?

Re: my previous predictions for this chapter:

1. Kakashi is not dead -We don't know if Kakashi is really dead, but majority believes that he is.

2. Shizune's soul was only stolen -We still don't know if Shizune's soul was only stolen.

3. Shikamaru gonna solve the mystery of Pein - I was wrong in this one. It was Inoichi who solved the mystery.

4. Tsunade-same to counterattack the bansho tenin of Pein - yet to be seen.

My Predictions for Chapter 437:
1. Kakashi is not dead
2. Shizune's soul was only stolen
3. Shikamaru to find Nagato's hide-out in a nick of time.
4. Tsunade-sama to counter-attack the bansho tenin of Pein.
5. The old man Danzou to reappear to mess up again with Tsunade.

Rating: 4.0/5

My first with Linux

2009-02-20T12:40:00.009+08:00

It has been almost a year since I installed Linux in my laptop, and I am satisfied with my decision.

I bought my ACER laptop in Singapore, March 2008. It comes with free Windows Vista OS, MS Office and Norton Anti-Virus trial versions. I thought that it was a good buy (but have regretted it a little bit later when I found out that other laptops costs cheaper or was it because I bought it in Singapore). I had my qualms though. What am I going to do after the Office and Norton Anti-Virus have expired?

Months later, it happened. The MS Office and Norton have expired. I couldn't edit my files and I thought that I was not safe anymore (with pack of viruses just coming from anywhere - flash disk included). Should I buy MS Office and Norton AV that cost around PhP7K? I thought that it was a hefty price, but I didn't want to settle with pirated ones (Anti-piracy advocate here, hehe).

Fortunately, I was able to read about Linux Ubuntu in the net. It is FREE and people using it are satisfied. Another good thing about it, no VIRUS. It doesn't mean that it is not vulnerable to viruses, but the latter were made to attack popular OS such as Windows.

To cut the long story short, I installed Ubuntu, but I didn't uninstall my Vista. I have now dual boot OS. The process was very easy actually. You just need to burn a copy of Ubuntu installer file, then follow the procedure.

I had problem though with my wireless connection, but I was able to resolve it with the help of Ubuntu forum.

Another plus point for Linux, it is an open software that's why it's free. I am able to download different softwares and programs with no problems via Synaptic Package Manager. I was able to download games like Chess, puzzles like Sudoku and software like Octave.

Minus point on the mouse cursor. It gets annoying at times but I am getting used to it. I have yet to find fix for this.

Over-all it's VERY SATISFACTORY.

Rating: 4.5/5

Mi-Jo Hotel for Tagaytay get-away

2009-02-19T22:41:00.008+08:00

Last Christmas 2008, I gave my mother a chance to take a vacation. It was a last minute decision. Though the place was already decided, which was Tagaytay, I didn't know where to book her for her 3 day vacation.

I wanted a hotel that is not expensive, but not "cheap". I searched different internet sites and fora for the best hotel that was within my budget. That was the time that I learned about Mi-Jo Hotel.

Mi-Jo Hotel is situated at the heart of Tagaytay City. It is only a three-storey building, but the ambiance is cozy.

My mother had no problem looking for this hotel because of the landmarks that she used as reference (RSM, Max, BPI, etc). During the whole length of her stay, she has enjoyed the free breakfast meal (for two). The only problem were the episodes of brown-outs (about 2x). Nevertheless, it was all good.

The room costs only about PhP1800/night. It's all worth it.
Rating: 3.8/5

(All pictures were taken using my N82. At that time, it was raining. That explains the blurry outcome)

The Diamond 16 Puzzle

2009-02-19T02:53:00.002+08:00

I found this website - The Diamond 16 Puzzle in one of the google ads in my blog.

Interesting puzzle with theory in mathematics to back it up.

Why not try it?

Don't forget to read about The Diamond Theorem as you go along.

It's a good one.

Dream House Architecture (Part1)

2009-02-19T01:41:00.006+08:00

All of us have our own dream houses. It is good that I am assigned here at Batam, Indonesia and that we are housed here at Suka Jadi because we are able to see marvelous beautiful houses with elegant architecture.

The one in the left is our staff house. On the right is one of the average looking two-storey houses here in our subdivision.

More pictures to follow.

(All pictures were taken using my ever reliable N82 while in a moving car)

Panbil Mall

2009-02-19T00:20:00.014+08:00

One of the well known malls here at Batam is Panbil Mall. This could be attributed to its proximity to Batamindo Industry Complex where all manufacturing companies (semicon included) are located.

We are no exception. We go here for our lunch or to shop for some items. The food court is rather small, but the food is affordable. There are two extraordinary things about this mall that might capture your interest:

1. There's a stall in the food court that serves pork. As you know, Indonesia is predominantly a Muslim country and pork is not allowed. The food should be Halal. This makes this store extraordinary. You cannot see the grilled pork chops in their menu, but if you ask for "babi" (baboy) certainly, it will be given to you. I've never tried it though. I eat pork, but I can live without it. This menu costs around Rp15000 (~PhP75)

2. There's also a place there where people can choose and pick their own viands among those served by the cook. Once you're done, show what you've picked to the cashier (owner) and he will use his eyes ala barcode and he will tell you how much your food costs. He is inconsistent though. There was one time we picked almost the same dish, but the prices aren't the same. Haha.

We also eat at Bakso (beef balls). There are different dish served here, but I always order the same one - Nasi Goreng Seafood. It costs Rp16500 now (~PhP83).

Right after our lunch in Panbil, we go down to the ground floor for our Rp1000 worth guava with bumbur. This tastes good and helps to take away the "umay".

If we feel like it, we also eat at KFC... or go outside to have bandeng goreng (fried bangus).
Rating: 3.5/5

Thanks to Joanna, Hardie and Dennis for serving as my models.

(All pictures were taken using my ever reliable N82)

Top 10 Anime List

2009-02-18T19:38:00.006+08:00

Anime rocks. Anime pawns US made cartoons big time. Before, I used to like Loony Toons and Justice League. Now, I realized that storyline and action sequences in anime are much better. Let's say I'm really biased. Haha.

10. Akazukin Cha-Cha - I simply adore this anime and I remember that I really laughed a lot while watching it.

9. Neon Genesis Evangelion - this made my head hurt.

8. Basilisk - battle of ninjas. When there are ninjas, there should be lots of actions. I simply loved the resolution of the conflict between two clans.

7. Gundam Seed Destiny - the only mecha anime in my list. This one tops Voltest V, Voltron and Dainamos.

6. Flame of Recca - again ninja.

5. Samurai X - when we talk about anime, Kenshin is not far behind.

4. Yuyu Hakusho (Ghostfighter) - the first ever anime to rule the primetime. I have been a fan since it was aired in IBC13. I even got depressed when Jeremiah died.

3. Full Metal Alchemist - character development, resolution of conflict, opening and closing themes... this is almost perfect. Please see the youtube video of Larc 'en Ciel here. They are the group who sang "Ready Steady Go", one of the op of Full Metal Alchemist.

(Youtube video credit to phenix117)

2. Bleach - Ichigo, soul society, zanpakotou, bankai. Action.

1. Naruto - the best ever anime for me. Naruto. The legendary Sannin. Akatsuki. Death.

Other popular animes such as One Piece, HunterXHunter and GTO didn't make it to my list. Maybe in the future when I try to revisit my list.

How about you? What's in your list?

Makan Disini or Tek Awey?

2009-02-17T23:28:00.003+08:00

Every time you order for satu nasi (1 rice) and satu ayam (1 chicken) at KFC here at Indonesia, the friendly crew is going to ask you...

"Makan disini pak or Tek Awey"

You probably know what makan is. Yes, translation for makan is eat.

Disini - If you're Kapampangan, this would sound familiar. You guess it right. It means here.

So, Makan disini is Eat Here.

Normally, if the crew is speaking with a native here, he would probably ask "makan disini, ke pulang?"

Pulang means home. Hence, asking ke pulang translates to "take home".

However, if the crew is speaking to a non-native, he is going to ask you in English - "Tek Awey?" (sometimes "Tek Awi"). At first, we had a hard time deciphering what does he mean by Tek Awey or Tek Awi. We thought that this was Bahasa. Haha.

===============

One time, a newbie would be watching us old timers when we make our order. To make it easier (so as not to repeat the previous order in Bahasa), we taught them to say "sama" (same).

Like in Filipino, Indonesians also repeat a word.

anak - child
anak anak - children

orang - person
orang orang - people

What if you say "sama sama"? No, it doesn't mean same same. It is the usual reply when one tells you "Terima Kasih".

I remember one time when we saw a road sign "Hati-Hati". We thought that it means banyak (many) Hati. We were wrong. Hati-Hati means Be Careful.

Selamat Malam orang-orang. Hati-Hati.

Z8 Microcontroller

2009-02-17T22:18:00.003+08:00

Z8 is one the microcontrollers that we have studied in our Microprocessor course in college. Z8 architecture appears to be powerful and more convenient to use.

Zilog, for the past few years, holds annual Microcontroller and Design Competition (MADC). One of the highlights of the said event is the MOBOT race.

I had a chance to witness one. Please see below:

and this one:

Youtube videos credit to luisgsison (who I assume is Dr. Luis G. Sison of UPD)

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila was able to win the top prize in the classic MOBOT race.

I also want to build one...

The Tales of Obando Church

2009-02-17T16:35:00.005+08:00

I bet that you all know about Obando Church and Sta. Clara. You may even know the famous folk song about the two.

Santa Clarang pinung-pino
Ako po ay bigyan niyo
ng asawang labingtatlo
at magsasayaw ng pandanggo

There are many variations of this song, but the theme remains the same - asking the patron saint Santa Clara to give the couple an offspring. Of course, singing is not enough. Tradition says that the couple should dance in front of Sta. Clara. You may have witnessed this personally or on special reports by our local media.

There were many success stories from different couples. There are even couples from far away provinces who visit Sta. Clara hoping that they also could have a child. Many came back to tell the good news... but I know that there are still some who were not blessed (or unlucky).

For the believers, it is their faith that brings miracle.

=======================

There are three patron saints in Obando - San Pascual de Baylon, Sta. Clara and Nuestra Senora de la Paz. Each one has its stories to tell. I am more familiar with Nuestra Senora as she's our patron saint. I am going to post this famour story (or folklore) in one of my posts.

(The picture was taken using my ever reliable N82)

Manila Bay

2009-02-17T14:32:00.005+08:00

Christmas Party 2008 - yeah, this was a memorable event for us employess. I won't go into details like the food for the buffet was not enough for us, a number waited until 8pm for their dinner to be served, or that the band was corny... nah, I won't delve into trivial things like that.

The event was held near the Manila Bay area so we took the chance to marvel the beauty of it. I want to show you that Manila bay still has its own magic that lure the people towards it. The pictures explain it very well.

The proverbial sunset at Manila Bay is lovely. I was able to witness it several times already (I went to PLM for college and it is near Manila Bay), but I never get tired of it. I just hope that people will soon realize that we should take care of this treasure. I wonder if Mayor Alfred Lim has plans for the Manila Bay.

(All pictures were taken using my ever reliable N82 phone)

Higgs Boson - within reach?

2009-02-16T23:36:00.003+08:00

A theory that will be put into test - does Higgs boson really exist?

Don't hold your breath now. We may need to wait until 2011 to finally get the answers.

Below article was again taken from Symmetry Magazine. Please click the title below for the link.

Hunt for the Higgs kicking into high gear

February 16, 2009 | 2:40 am

Researchers with the Tevatron experiments at Fermilab told fellow scientists and journalists not to count them out of the race to discover the Higgs boson.

“In the next few years, if the Higgs lives in the expected mass range of 114 to 185 GeV, we will see evidence of its existence,” said Dmitri Denisov, co-spokesman of DZero and a Fermilab staff scientist, Sunday at the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference in Chicago.

The Higgs explains how particles acquire mass, and is the last, missing piece of the Standard Model, which explains matter and how it acts. Essentially, the Higgs is the last piece of a puzzle describing everything around the world, including ourselves, Denisov said.

While the Large Hadron Collider in Europe is the new, bigger kid on the high-energy physics’ block, Tevatron researchers said their smaller experiments bring a finely-tuned machine and a head start to the game.

It will take the LHC until 2011 or 2012 to reach the energy levels expected to house the Higgs, said Jim Virdee, spokesman of CMS and a professor at Imperial College of London.

Measurement constraints, including some from the Tevatron experiments, have narrowed in on the region considered the most likely home of a light-mass Higgs, the 115 to 182 GeV mass region.

LHC’s so-called sweet-spot sits in the mass range of 155 to 170 GeV.

“The Standard Model Higgs (if it exists) is being produced now at the Tevatron–we have enough energy,” said CDF co-spokesman Jacob Konigsberg, a University of Florida professor, who has worked with CDF since its beginning in the 1980s. ”There is just not enough of them.”

But that is quickly changing.

The Higgs rarely appears in particle collisions and when it does it hides amongst many other particles that mimic its traits. By increasing the number of particle collisions, scientists increase their probability of honing in on this tricky prey.

“We are setting records every week pretty much,” Konigsberg said. “Every year this program gets better and better.”

The more than a decade-old Tevatron accelerator complex operates more than 300 times better than it was initially designed to do. In the past five years at the Tevatron, the luminosity–-the number of collisions per second–-has increased sixfold. In a recent six-week period alone, overall luminosity improved 10 percent, generating more than a dozen luminosity records, sometimes multiple records in one week.

That increase in the production of rare particles and number of collisions has kept the Tevatron pumping out discoveries and physicists lining up to work on CDF and DZero.

The collaborations have seen an increase in the last year in the number of post docs and graduate students clamoring to join the discovery race.

In 2008, CDF and DZero work resulted in more than 100 papers submitted to ICHEP08. Particularly noteworthy analysis in 2008 were: improvement in the measurement of the top quark mass, new Higgs exclusion limits, observation of ZZ events, and the discovery of new b-quark bound states.

“The discoveries show we understand our experiments, we are doing very well and we are ready to take the next step and find the Higgs,” Denisov said.

The Tevatron experiments are expected to have an easier time picking out the Higgs if it has low-mass, while the larger, higher-energy LHC will have a better reach for a high-mass Higgs.

It is expect that when the recent results are combined by this summer, the complementary approaches will enable the pair of experiments to exclude another region as a possible hiding spot for the Higgs, as the duo did with the 170 GeV range in the summer of 2008. Already the duo is close to excluding areas in the high 160s and high 180s GeV ranges.

“We will continue to increase this exclusion mass–or find the Higgs,” Denisov said.

The Tevatron is expected to operate through 2009 and Fermilab has made a case to keep the discovery machine operating through 2011. With an additional year of operation, the CDF and DZero experiments would have more than twice the data available today. That opens the door to compelling physics such as the first exploration of the Terascale, a better definition of top-quark mass and finding the Higgs boson.

DZero detector at Fermilab

The two detectors use slightly different technology to capture and analyze the same clues. Working in tandem, the detector teams can search mass and energy ranges more efficiently than they could alone. Each detector has its own strength. CDF has a larger magnet and dominates in tracking particle paths, which show electrical charges; while DZero has a larger calorimeter and dominates in measuring particle energy levels.

The detectors serve as a check and balance against each others’ analyses, ensuring data anomalies don’t get recorded as discoveries. Each research team records the types of particles, including quarks, electrons, and muons, that shoot off from the collisions and those particles’ energy levels, decays, and electrical charges. Scientists test theories on particle interactions, measure particle properties, and look for discrepancies in calculations predicted by the Standard Model, the current blueprint for the universe. The results can indirectly reveal the existence of new physics and point the way to discoveries.

CDF assembly at Fermilab

Tag-team approach

The LHC and the Tevatron also take a competitive, but complementary approach to the search for the Higgs.

“We both work together on this, and we are both making advances,” said Fermilab Director Pier Oddone. “It is a quest we undertake together, and we benefit only through the use of both of these machines.”

At least in the first few years of LHC operation, the Tevatron and LHC will not look for the same Higgs production and decay mode, allowing the United States and Europe based experiments to complement each other.

Many LHC physicists also cut their teeth at the Tevatron experiments, providing data that helped point the LHC in the direction of the Higgs and continues to narrow the areas the LHC will have to spend time searching so it can instead focus on untapped energy ranges.

So while whether the Tevatron will find the Higgs first or not remains a question, its benefit to particle physics research world-wide goes unquestioned.

“We have this feeling we are right at the threshold of some great discovery,” Oddone said. “It is like Columbus, if we get to the beach it will be very exciting. We won’t be able to explore the full continent behind it, that is the job of the LHC.”
Tona Kunz

LHC Update

2009-02-16T22:31:00.003+08:00

Large Hadron Collider, popularly known as LHC, has been on-going repairs since last September when it was first tested but aborted when it came to a halt due to flaw in one of its electrical components.

Please read below for the whole story taken from Symmetry Magazine. Please click the title of this post to direct you to the link (I also included this website in my Favorite Internet Sites).

LHC repairs almost complete

February 16, 2009 | 2:42 am

Engineers at CERN are installing the last component necessary to fix the Large Hadron Collider, LHC production manager Lyn Evans said at the AAAS conference in Chicago.

In about a month, they will begin the process of cooling the accelerator’s eight sectors, one by one. And by late September, “we’ll be ready to be back where we were last September,” Evans said.

The LHC saw first collisions in September 2008, but shortly afterward a flaw in one of its electrical components brought the accelerator to a halt.

Researchers at CERN are in fact working to be in an even better position for collisions this time around. They’re spending their downtime training new physicists and practicing using the worldwide computer grid that will process the information the detectors collect. They have taken data from naturally occurring cosmic rays with the detectors in preparation for recording actual collisions. Once the machine is cooled, experimentalists will make partial beam runs to test pieces of the detector they have improved since the last run.

Researchers at the LHC had originally scheduled a yearly shut-down of the machine between November and April because of the high cost of electricity during the winter months. But this year, they plan to run for 10 months through the winter to make up for lost time.

Once they have the machine running, they will probably need about five years to gradually turn the energy of the LHC’s beams up to 7 TeV. After five or six years, the LHC will have a scheduled upgrade, which should improve its luminosity by a factor of three or four, Evans said.

The scientists at CERN cannot start running the LHC at full power right off the bat because they’re still learning how to drive it, Evans said. One of the next big challenges for experimentalists working at the LHC will be learning how to discriminate between useful information and the large amount of extraneous data that proton-proton collisions generate.

Protons are made up of quarks and gluons. Physicists are interested in collisions between quarks. But when gluons collide, they create distracting debris in the detectors.

“The noise in enormous in these machines,” Evans said. “Imagine building an orange collider. Very occasionally there will be a collision between two pips. But every time there will be pulp.”

If this endeavor will become a success, it will OPEN up possibilities that we never would have imagined.

Let's keep a tab of its development... and oh, I think we need to brush up on our particle physics. Haha.

Keith Ward and his books

2009-02-16T11:30:00.001+08:00

There's no doubt that I am a big fan of Keith Ward, Regius Professor of Divinity at Oxford until 2004. One reason that I became a fan is because of his books that I've read.

Last 2007, I chanced upon his book God, Chance and Necessity at National Book Store. This cost around PhP1000. Though it's rather expensive, I was actually compelled to purchase this since the reviews were actually good. I know that reviews are merely reviews, just a marketing strategy to up the sales, but I was willing to gamble and see if this book would live up to my expectations.

I am glad that I did cause it exceeded my expectations. Ward was able to explain the concept of a GOD and why there's a reason to believe that He exists. He was able to challenge materialism and neo-darwinism.

I've learned a lot from this book. Highly recommended.
Rating: 5/5.

Other books of Ward that are worth reading:
1. In Defense of The Soul
2. God: A Guide for the Perplexed

I Will post my reviews on these books later. I also plan to discuss some points raised by Keith Ward in his books.

Discussion: Which is the best F4?

2009-02-16T02:04:00.000+08:00

Hana Yori Dango is one classic manga by Kamio Yoko. Due to its popularity, it was adapted into a live action flick in three different countries.

These shows have captured the hearts of Asian viewers because of the engaging storyline and, of course, because of the lead stars.

Meteor Garden in Taiwan
Hana Yori Dango in Japan
Boys Before Flowers in South Korea

Which F4 do you think is the best?

(All pictures credit to the owners)

Discussion: When Pigs Fly and Monkeys Type

2009-02-15T19:26:00.000+08:00

When Pigs Fly and Monkeys Type by Dr. Gerald Schroeder is one of the best tothesource articles that I've ever read. Schroeder has combined three of my favorite subjects - mathematics, science and philosophy in one full article.

The link to the article is here. I also have posted the whole article below.

From tothesource:

When Pigs Fly and Monkeys Type by Dr. Gerald Schroeder

Stephen Hawking in his A Brief History Of Time taught the world that given enough time, monkeys hammering away on typewriters could type out a Shakespeare sonnet. It is a nice adage but totally off base, at least within the reality of our world. Having gone to MIT I don't know many sonnets. In fact when I thought about this I only knew the opening line of one, "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day." There are a bit fewer than 500 letters in that sonnet [All Shakespeare's sonnets are about the same length; all by definition 14 lines long.] Let's consider a grab bag with the 26 letters of the English language in it. I reach into the bag blindfolded and pull out a letter. The likelihood that it will be 's' for the first letter of the sonnet is one chance in 26. The likelihood that in two draws I will get an 's' and then an 'h' is one chance in 26 times 26. And so on for the 500 letters. Neglecting spaces between the words, the chance of getting the entire sonnet by chance is 26 multiplied by itself 500 times. That number comes out to be a one with 700 zeroes after it. In conventional math terms, it is 10 to the exponent power of 700. To give a sense of scale for reference, the known universe including dark matter and black energy weighs in the order of 10 to the power 56 grams; the number of basic particles [protons, neutrons, electrons, mesons] in the known universe is 10 to the power 80; the age of the universe from our perspective of time, 10 to the power 18 seconds. Convert all the universe into micro-computers each weighing a billionth of a gram and run each of those computers billions of times a second non-stop from the beginning of time and we still will need greater than 10 to the power 500 universes, or that much more time for even a remote probability of getting a sonnet; any meaningful sonnet. Chance does not produce intelligible text and certainly not a sonnet, not in our universe.

But so convincing is the Hawking argument that the students at the Plymouth University in England convinced the National Arts Council to put up 1500 Sterling, about $3000, to try monkey typing skills. They rented a monkey house for a month. Six monkeys hammered away on a computer key board and failed to produce a single English word. Surprised, since the shortest word in the English language is one letter long? Surely the monkeys must have hit an 'A' or an 'I' in all their efforts. But think about it. To a make an 'A' a word requires a space on each side of the 'A'. That means typing: space, 'A,' space. If there are about 100 keys on the computer key board, the probability is one chance in a 100 times 100 times 100 which comes out to be one chance in a million. Random guessing in a spelling bee is always a losing proposition. And that is for a single letter word.

But what about life? Could random mutations have actually produced the ordered complexity of life, or even a viable protein? Mutations that are to be passed on to the next generation must occur in the genetic material of the reproductive line, which is in the DNA of sperm or egg. That mutation results in a variant (mutated) protein which might produce a new more effective type of organ, say a better muscle or the beginning of a transition from fin to foot. That would be the neo-Darwinian concept. But let's look at that process rigorously. When we do we'll see it does not work if randomness is the only driving force.

The building blocks of all life are proteins. Proteins are precisely organized strings of amino acids. Information held on the DNA determines the order in which the amino acids join together to form the end-product, the protein. So if the DNA mutates, we get a different amino acid and hence a different protein. Now comes the problem of mutations in the theory of neo-Darwinian randomness.

The genetic system of all life is totally coded. An example of code would be the Morse code sounds, 'dot dot dot dash' which look, sound or seem nothing like the letter 'V' for which they code. If you did not know that this sequence of sounds represented a 'V' you'd not have a clue as to its meaning. And so it is with the data on the DNA. Though the data on the strands of DNA (the chromosomes) in our cells carry the information for the amino acids and proteins that are to form, the data on the DNA are held as assorted groupings of four different nucleic acids. Nucleic acids have absolutely zero physical resemblance to either amino acids or proteins. The information is totally coded.

In nature, this lack of similarity between code and final product ensures that there is no logical feedback from protein or amino acid to DNA. Information flow is one way: DNA to amino acid to protein. New mutant variations of proteins can arise only through mutations at the DNA that have no physical hint of the final protein product.

In all known life, there are only 20 different amino acids. Stringing them together in varied sequences produces varied proteins, just as intelligently stringing letters together in varied sequences will produce varied sentences and sonnets. Scientific literature suggests that all of life is made from combinations of fewer than a million different proteins. Other proteins are either useless [neutral, adding no selective advantage for survival] or lethal. But let's say our estimate is off. In place of 1,000,000 viable proteins, let it be 100 million or billion or trillion viable proteins.

Here are the crucial numbers:

Proteins vary in length from strings of a few hundred to a few thousand amino acids. Consider a relatively short protein, such as 200 amino acids long. Into each of the 200 spaces any one of the 20 amino acids can fall. That means the total number of possible combinations is 20 times 20 times 20 repeated 200 times. The result is a one with 260 zeros after it, or 10 to the power of 260 or a billion billion billion repeated 29 times. From this vast biological grab bag, we are told that nature by random chance mutations has been able to form the fewer than a million proteins that don't kill the organism. This did not, and could not, and will not happen by chance. And every biologist enamored with neo-Darwinian evolution knows it. Their feeble reply is that there must be other factors that limit the types of mutations that can occur. There certainly are…but not as randomly as the materialist biologist would have it.

The unrealistic possibility that the selection of viable proteins could have occurred by unguided random mutations in the DNA led Simon Conway Morris, professor of evolutionary paleobiology at Cambridge University, Fellow of the Royal Society of England, and possibly the world's leading paleontologist, to write his book, Life's Solutions (Cambridge University Press, 2003). In it we read: "Life is simply too complex to be assembled by random reactions on any believable time scale. … evolution [has the] uncanny ability to find the short cuts across the multidimensional hyperspace of biological reality. …"

This opinion is also found in the writing of Nobel laureate, organic chemist and a leader in origin of life studies, Professor de Duve, in his excellent book, Tour of a Living Cell:

"If you equate the probability of the birth of a bacteria cell to chance assembly of its atoms, eternity will not suffice to produce one. ... Faced with the enormous sum of lucky draws behind the success of the evolutionary game, one may legitimately wonder to what extent this success is actually written into the fabric of the universe."

Life written into the fabric of the universe. Sounds like design to me.

Noble laureate, Professor of Biology, Harvard University, the late George Wald, may have provided us with the answer to this wonder when he wrote "Life and Mind in the Universe" in the International Journal of Quantum Chemistry: Quantum Biology symposium 11 (1984):

"It has occurred to me lately - I must confess with some shock at first to my scientific sensibilities – that both questions [the origin of consciousness in humans and of life from non-living matter] might be brought into some degree of congruence. This is with the assumption that mind, rather than emerging as a late outgrowth in the evolution of life, has existed always as the matrix, the source and condition of physical reality – that stuff of which physical reality is composed is mind-stuff. It is mind that has composed a physical universe that breeds life…."

This is science, not theology, speaking. But it is also theology.

"In the beginning was the logos [logos –logic, intellect, word]" (John).

A few hundred years earlier, "With the word of God the heavens were made." (Psalm 33).

And a few hundred years before that, "B'raisheet (With wisdom) God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis I:1). [Not 'In the beginning.' That is the erroneous mis-translation of the Hebrew word B'raisheet introduced by the Septuagint]

If indeed wisdom, logic and mind are the essence of existence, then the conundrum of the origin of the life's design is solved. The Intelligence behind the design is ubiquitous in every particle of the world and most evident in the brains and minds of humans as we puzzle over our cosmic origins.

Here are my points:
1. I believe that evolution does not happen by chance, but it is guided. This is what we call Theistic Evolution.
2. I quite remember that I had discussed evolution with one atheist before and we had tackled something about "randomness". I can't remember exactly what it is. I'll post another topic when I stumble upon it. I feel that it is also critical in this discussion.
3. Some non-theists would argue that an intelligible word "She" has the same probability as "$sj". However, our point here is that it is nearly impossible to generate an intelligible word by chance alone compared to non-intelligible words. If we consider intelligibility of the word, then the probability would be skewed and would be non-equiprobable.

How about you? What are your thoughts on this?

PLM BSECE Block2 Batch 1999 mini-reunion

2009-02-15T17:06:00.000+08:00

We had a mini-reunion at Glorieta last December 2008. The attendees were Joan, Cheryll, Evie, Jonelle, Mark, Arnel and yours truly. To the others who have been very busy that they were not able to attend, no problem. It's your loss. Jonelle gave us a treat and some souvenir items.

It has been a long time since we've seen each other especially Jonelle who has been employed in Brazil. Mark and Arnel, who are still partners in crime up to now, have had a busy schedule but were still able to find some time to meet up with us. Woah, people really change.

I am hoping that we could have a bigger and better reunion in the near future. It seems impossible right now since most are engaged in business and work, some have migrated to other countries and many of us have been OFWs for a long time now.

A lot of us also have our own respective families to support. Looking at the bright side, our families have grown bigger. Our bonds have grown stronger. Let us keep it up guys. Stay connected. Keep in touch.

To all PLM BSECE Batch 1999 - CHEERS!

Note: The picture was taken using my ever reliable N82. Haha...

Exploring Singapore - Part 2

2009-02-15T16:10:00.000+08:00

This video shows the Chinese orchestra. It was taken using my N82 phone. The video was taken last Feb 8 at the Vivo City.

I forgot what this music ensemble is called in China. Haha.

Exploring Singapore - Part 1

2009-02-15T14:26:00.000+08:00

It was only a few times that I've been in Singapore. I've only been at Vivo City, Changi airport, Lucky Plaza at Orchard and Little India. These pictures were taken using my N82 cellphone.

The cable cars, the Merlion and the monorail train were all taken while I am on the 2nd level veranda of Vivo City.

I've also taken a snapshot of what it was like inside Changi airport terminal 3. At that time, the F1 race was to be held at Singapore. That explains the presence of F1 race car inside Changi airport. Tourists have come and go trying out the race car. I would have done it if I were not that shy. Damn, I've lost an opportunity of the lifetime.

Exploring Batam - Part 1

2009-02-15T13:16:00.000+08:00

Please see here the various pictures I've taken using my N82 phone. These are some of my memories of Batam, Indonesia.

The Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall where we usually buy our dinner and where we do our groceries.

The I-HOTEL, I stayed here for less than a week before I transferred back to Planet Holiday Hotel. I-HOTEL is better than Planet Holiday Hotel in most aspects - location, cleanliness, ambiance. If not for the night shift manager who didn't accommodate us, we could have chosen to stay here.

My room at Planet Holiday. There are my 2 laptops and 1 TV set. Look at what I'm watching, Hong Gil Dong. Haha.

Planet Holiday from afar at night. What I like best about this hotel are the facilities, swimming pool and food voucher.

I will post more as soon as I uploaded the pics.

Arrival at Batam

2009-02-15T11:51:00.000+08:00

I've been to Batam, Indonesia several times already. My first time was in 2005 when my company asked me on the very same day to go to Batam to monitor one of our devices in our subcon.

I really don't know if there's really a direct flight to Batam from the Philippines. Some of my co-workers say that there is. I doubt that. If there were, we should have been taking direct flight to Batam which should be more convenient.

The easiest way to go to Batam is via ferry from Singapore. Right after your arrival at Changi airport, ride a taxi to Harbour Front. Harbour Front is beside Vivo City. You'll never get lost there. Taxi might cost around S$15.

At Harbour Front, there are ticketing stations at the 2nd floor. Choose whatever you want and whatever port you want to go to. (I had no problems here since the marketing personnel of our subcon always had already arranged our ferry schedule right before we arrived). You can choose from Batam Fast (which will either go to Sekupang or Batam Center port) and Wavemaster (which is at Harbour Bay).

I was able to ride both Batam Fast and Wavemaster. I prefer Wavemaster for its faster service and more convenient ride. The ferries are also clean and new. Besides, Wavemaster is nearer to our hotel when we used to stay Planet Holiday or I-Hotel. Now that we transferred to a staff house, we have no other option but to use Batam Fast.

After about 45mins to 1hour ferry ride (depending on the port of your destination), you will now disembark and go to the immigration area. Here's the trick, the queue for Filipinos is different from other nationalities. Just ask around where should you line-up. At Batam Center, you have to go the leftmost queue. Here, you have to pay your visa. For 7 days and below, you have to pay S$25. Above 7 days, you have to pay S$50.

I had a memorable experience in the immigration last July. I had no Singapore dollars, just US dollars. I was giving him my $25, but the officer refused. He spoke in Bahasa and I didn't understand him. I was really annoyed on how unprofessional this immagration officer was. I called up our Indonesian customer service and asked him to help me communicate with this immigration officer because, apparently, we could not understand each other. Again, this immigration officer refused to talk to my customer service personnel. He went out. Later, I found out that he fetched his supervisor to talk to me. I went inside the immigration office. I asked him (thank GOD that he can speak English) to talk to my customer service over the phone. They discussed and then they hang-up. I was surprised that the cause of this brouhaha is that the immigration officer would just want me to pay in Singapore dollars. Haha.

Folks, 1$ ~ S$1.4. In US dollars, we just have to pay $25. In Singapore dollars, we have to pay S$50. Hmmm...

OK, it's just a case of difficulty in communications so I have forgiven that immigration officer already. The important thing is, I arrived safely at Batam.

Where is the Patis?

2009-02-15T10:16:00.000+08:00

Do you remember the essay, "Where's the Patis?" by Carmen Guerrero? This is one of our reading materials in our English II. No, I am not going to write a review of that essay. I remember this essay because it's exactly what I've been asking myself for a long time now. Where's the Patis?

When I went to San Jose, California for training, I didn't miss the patis. Well, there's an Asian grocery store there (owned I think by a Chinese). This store houses lots of Filipino grocery items, from sinigang mix to sardines. Needless to say, I was able to buy patis there.

Fast forward to where I am now, I already miss the patis. Quite ironically, I am here in Indonesia (Batam), one the Philippines' nearest neighbor countries, but I can't find patis anywhere.

KFC, McDonalds, A&W, Bakso, Godiva, Istemewa and Nusantara Baru in Panbil Mall (Batamindo), Nagoya Hill mall (Nagoya) and Megamall (Batam Center) - I've been everyone of themm because these are the only food outlets that I am sure that I can eat and tolerate the spicy touch of Indo cuisine.

Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken) in KFC. No gravy
Burgers in McDonalds and A&W. High price.
Nasi Goreng Seafood (Fried Rice with Seafood) in Bakso and Nusantara Baru. My usual lunch.
Soup Campur in Istemewa. The best. Excellent Indo food. Soup with seafood - udang (prawn), ikan asin (fish) and sotong (squid). It almost tastes like our own sinigang.

I also had Hongkong Fried Rice when I stayed in Planet Holiday Hotel. Instead of variety of seafood, this fried rice contains only dried fish. However, it tastes good.

Now, the #1 food that I've ever tasted here at Batam is the Black Pepper Prawn. Hot. Spicy. Bell Pepper. Udang. All in harmony satisfying your taste buds. I wonder when can I go back at Planet Holiday so that I can once again order that food. One major setback, it cost around 50000 Rupiah. Haha.

Now, we're staying at our staff house here in Bukit Suka Jadi. The houses here are very beautiful. The subdivision is peaceful. But one thing is lacking - the patis. Since we're staying at one house, we ought to cook our own meal to save our per diem. As you know, Filipino cuisine requires in almost all meal to have patis. Salt does not cut it.

Though it's healty not to have patis, my taste buds are getting the better of me.

Epigenetics challenges Neo-Darwinism

2009-02-15T09:02:00.000+08:00

I first learned about Epigenetics in an article written by Benjamin Wilker for tothesource. It seems to be a new area of discipline in biology as it hasn't been as popular as Neo-Darwinism in the media circuit.

In the Science Mag website, epigenetics is defined as

the study of heritable changes in gene function that occur without a change in the DNA sequence

It was belived before by Neo-Darwinist that our form and our fate solely relies on our DNA, DNA is the master of our destiny.

However, recent studies showed that there are factors other than DNA that can alter our fate. There are various examples written in the Science Mag and tothesource. One of which is the nurturing activity of a mother to her offsprings that could help the latter's hippocampus in the brain to develop fully.
This would mean production of lesser stress hormon, cortisol.

If DNA is no longer the sole master of our form and fate, this will directly challenge the reductionist paradigm of Neo-Darwinism. It is no longer true that everything could be explained by our DNA or that everything is about brute materialism.

Let me make a big jump, if materialism is no longer true (and I strongly believe that it's a passe philosophy), then there's no reason to believe that God does not exist. Ok, please pardon me. That was really a BIG jump to a conclusion.

tothesource: Darwin's Dis-ease

2009-02-15T08:03:00.000+08:00

tothesource is one of my favorite internet sites nowadays as it features articles from christians about critical issues that we face that are relevant to our faith.

This time, let us tackle one of the articles written Benjamin Wilker, which is Darwin's Dis-ease. Darwin is a favorite topic by Wilker. He even had even written a book about Darwin - The Darwin Myth: The Life and Lies of Charles Darwin. I have yet to read this book.

If you're familiar with Benjamin Wilker's writing style, you would notice that he doesn't sugarcoat. He tells things as they are. That is what I like about him. He's straightforward. Like in any other articles that he has written, he attempted to show the readers what kind of a person Charles Darwin was. You might ask, why Wilker would resort to such things. Why not argue against Darwin's Theory of Evolution head on than attacking the person itself?

First, he's not attacking the person. It's not ad hominem. He just explored what the readers have not yet known about Darwin and tell about it flatly.

Second, it is related to his main argument.

How?

Theory of Evolution states that only the fittest will survive. However, as what have Wilker showed us, Darwin was a sickly guy after his trip on Beagle.

Darwin knew he was frail. He fretted continually about being the hereditary source of his own children's frail health. Yet, he embraced a theory that worked precisely by killing off people like him and his children.

Quite ironic, isn't it? This is one of my many qualms against the ToE.

I do believe in Theory of Evolution in a way that species evolve but with a guidance of a divine being. This is called Theistic Evolution.

Please read the article.

Review: Boys Over Flower Episode 12

2009-02-15T01:41:00.002+08:00

Boys Over Flower is a Korean adaptation of the popular manga series Hana Yori Dango. The Korean version has proved its worth. Some would even say that it has already surpassed what Meteor Garden has achieved.

In episode 12, Jun Pyo gave Jan Di a unique necklace. The star around the moon. The moon (Jan Di) can never get away from the star (Jun Pyo) that surrounds it. However, this necklace was lost. No thanks to the cruel girls of Shinwha High who are envious of Jan Di's fortune. Jun Pyo felt that Jan Di was ignoring, yet again, his feelings for her. To prove that Jun Pyo's accusation is not true, she went to the place that the cruel girls have given her. Jan Di went on even there was a snow storm. Jun Pyo, later on, has learned of the danger that her fiancee was facing. He escaped from the bodyguards his mother has sent to fetch him. Jun Pyo saw Jan Di freezing in the mountains. He looked for the nearest safe cabins to save Jan Di from the merciless cold weather.

In this episode, we can see how Jan Di has learned to appreciate Jun Pyo. She's now trying to value the gift she has received from Jun Pyo as opposed to the time when she lost her anklet.

The episode ends with Jun Pyo heading to China to meet his ailing father together with his mother.

There's a hint that the next episode will be the start of heart breaking episodes for Jan Di.

Bleach 345: The Sloth

2009-02-15T00:58:00.000+08:00

Bleach 345 is already out at www.onemanga.com. This was scanlated by the team of Sleepy Fans.

Now we see a glimpse of the true power of Ulqioura. As an espada #4, he and the other stronger espadas, are restricted to release their power as it would destory the Menos Noches.

Aside from that, nothing much happened in this chapter. I am still expecting for more. Will Captain Unohana join the melee?
My Predictions:
1. One of the captains to save Ichigo from iminent danger.
2. Captain Unohana to fight.

Naruto 435: Bansho Tenin

2009-02-15T00:31:00.000+08:00

Naruto Chapter 435 is already out courtesy of the team of Sleepy Fans. The link is from www.onemanga.com.

This chapter only showed how formidable an oponent Pein is. Although Naruto was able to defeat six of the seven bodies of Pein, the fact remains that the real Pein has not been found yet. To add more insult to the injury, Pein single- handedly caused hundreds of deaths in Konoha.

Even Naruto, in his Sage mode, could not defeat Pein. Fukasaku is believed to be dead already as shown in the manga. The genjutsu that they were planning to use didn't materialize. As Kakashi put it, "that technique won't work with me twice".

At the ending of this chapter, Inoichi had an epiphany. Will he be able to pinpoint the whereabouts of the real Pein? Or is it Shikamaru who's going to save the day for Konoha? Is Kakashi really dead? What Godaime Hokage gonna do now? We have to wait for another one long week to know the answer.

My Predictions:
1. Kakashi is not dead.
2. Shizune's soul was only stolen.
3. Shikamaru gonna solve the mystery of Pein.
4. Tsunade-same to counterattack the bansho tenin of Pein.

Review: Beethoven Virus

2009-02-14T23:30:00.000+08:00

Beethoven Virus is a korean drama about a world class conductor, Kang Gun Woo, violinist, Du Ru Mi and trumpet player whose name is the same as his. Together, they will form a love triangle that will affect their lives and their music. The strict and ill-tempered Kang Gun Woo would be finally understood by Du Ru Mi that would cause the latter to fall in love with him. The younger Gun Woo would realize that he could not live without Du Ru Mi, but how could he manage his feelings when he learned that it was the older Gun Woo who captured the heart of the woman he desires?

This Korean drama exceeded my expectation. I was only trying to find something on the internet to kill time. I found this in the list of hot series. I was reluctant at first, but finally I got hooked into it.

Beethoven Virus showed the human dynamics of the orchestra members - the elite ones vs. the amateurs. How the amateurs would strive to excel in their craft though in the scrutinizing eyes of their conductor, Kang Gun Woo, they're all below par?

It also showed the human side of the rather self-absorbed Kang Gun Woo. His defense mechanism to drive away the people around him. He was only concerned about his music, the rest are just his instruments that he could dispose of at his own will.

This series has also tackled a lot of subplots but coherent in its mission to further develop its characters. The ahjumma (old woman) who wanted to be recognized. The old oboe player who continuously fight against dementia. The young emotional flute player who wanted to survive against poverty to uplift her family. The young violin player (Du Ru Mi) who would become nearly deaf fighting for her chance to perform on stage and to continue her passion for music.

What made me more interested in the movie was the musical scoring, the choices of classical music that were played were all superb. I love Tchaikovsky's piano concerto #1 that was played later in the series.

I was hoping that Du Ru Mi would realize that the younger GunWoo was more fitting to be loved than the tactless conductor. However, I guess that the ending was just right. The younger GunWoo finally admitted his defeat as he really respect his maestro.

The scene when conductor Kang saw the younger GunWoo broke down in tears, because he was rejected by the industry just because he was a novice, was very touching.

I definitely recommend this kdrama.

Rating: 4.5/5

SOLIO Universal Solar Charger

2009-02-14T22:19:00.000+08:00

We took an exit to Singapore from Batam, Indonesia last Feb 8. It was an opportune time for us to go around the city and to go shopping.

As usual, we went around Vivo City which is located beside Harbour Front. We ate first at McDonalds to give us energy for the long day ahead. We were looking for cool items. I, myself, didn't know what to buy. Would I buy the same gadget as what my colleagues were looking for? They wanted to buy a hard disk enclosure. It cost around S$200. Yeah, that was really a lot of money. I was tempted to buy one. Good thing that they decided to try to look for items in another store.

As we were about to exit Vivo City, we stumbled upon this newly opened store outlet of National Geographics. Lots of cool items inside, I tell you. Jackets, photographs, wrist watches, books and a lot more. The prices are pretty high too. The NatGeo watch that I saw cost around S$800. Haha. I almost died.

Then, I saw this SOLIO Universal Solar Charger. Cool! It only cost about S$100. It is universal, hence it supported various gadgets like Nokia, Samsung and Erickson cellphones, IPODS, Blackberry and others. It is also hybrid. It can be charged via USB or using the solar energy.

It was also supposed to help the environment. How? Let me quote from their brochure.

"Over the next five years, the US and Europe will import five billion chargers for handheld electronics. These chargers, most of which end up in landfills, will create over 16 million of CO2, the most problematic greenhouse gas. This is equivalent to the pollution created by five year's worth of driving by 3.6 million cars!"

I have no regrets purchasing one SOLIO charger, at least I can help save the environment, it also helps support National Geographic, and it is one COOL gadget. Haha.

I have been using it for a week already. It is working perfectly fine. I have yet to try the solar panel though to see if it is working. I will update you soon.

On Danvil and why it sucks

2009-02-14T21:26:00.000+08:00

It's hard to admit, but I am one of the thousand Filipinos who became a victim of this fraudulent company called Danvil (formerly known as Berkeley).

It happened last April 2008. It's a week after I arrived from my previous assignment in Batam, Indonesia. I convinced my friend to come with me. I had plans back then. I was supposed to get my free Dunlop watch c/o HSBC. We decided to claim this at SM North Edsa.

If I remember it correctly, it was around 7pm. We were at the ground floor. On our way to TIMEX, a lady suddenly appeared from nowhere. She asked us if we wanted a free bag or an umbrella. I was silent. She then asked us if we had an ATM or a credit card. I had four credit cards (BPI, HSBC, BDO and Unionbank) and three savings account ATM cards (BPI, BDO, Metrobank). I told her that I already have one. In my mind, I thought she was to ask us to get a credit card from them. I thought that she was from Citibank (I am biased against Citibank). It's too late before I saw what was written on her unifrom. She's from Danvil. The catch was, we are eligible to join their promo since I have cards. Good gracious, I thought I already escaped but I feel into her trap (so it seems).

She then guided us to sit beside their booth. She convinced us to allow her 15mins of presentation then we could have our free items. Ok, I said. It was 15mins only, and I supposed to have lots of time left before I could do what we were supposed to do in SM.

This lady walked us through the alley, then to the elevator which brought us to the 3rd floor. We had a little chat. She then flirted with my friend (I thought to myself, why him? If you wanna sell your goods, you gotta flirt with me. But on second thoughts, it would not have worked with me. Haha). After a while, the receptionist called me and I went inside the conference room. There are lots of people inside... I was not alone, so I thought.

A man, who claimed that he is a nursing graduate, was assigned to do the sales talk with me. I was impressed on how he was able to write on a piece of paper upside down. I wonder how long they were trained to do that.

Basically, this man was trying to convince me to save up for my future. But I was reluctant. I already have Sunlife and various savings accounts. Why would I put good money in an institution that I barely know? I want my money to be as liquid as possible. Putting my money in Danvil sounds not good to me.

This man, with the help of his superiors, was still trying to convince me by showing past claimants of Danvil. I didn't buy it. He then showed me a press release in Philippine Star. I didn't buy it. What the heck. It was a press release and it doesnt mean anything to me. It doesn't make the company, which is Danvil, a reputable company.

First and foremost, I didn't know anything about Danvil nor Berkeley. I wanted to check their backgrounds. One important thing about putting your money in an institution like Danvil is that you should have trust. How could I trust something that I barely know?

To cut the story short, it took them more than about two hours trying to convince me. My friend was calling my cellphone. I knew that he was being impatient already. We hadn't eaten our dinner, and TIMEX was about to close.

Unwillingly, I gave in. Just to get out of this mess, because they wouldn't let me. I didn't want to make a scene because it was not in my personality. Besides, they were kinda nice in pursuading me. But, it was already annoying me to no end that my head hurt. He said that it was a once in a lifetime chance to save. The offer was limited only and I wouldn't get any second chance.

Then, I learned that Danvil is formerly Family First. The same company featured in Magandang Gabi Bayan in ABS-CBN due to complaints in their aggressive marketing strategy. This man defended Danvil by saying that Danvil is trying to build a new image. Danvil is not the same as Family First.

I asked the man, or should I call him an agent (though he vehemently denied it), if ever I discovered that this product that they offer was not for me, could I possibly get out with no problems. He didn't answer me. He just continued again with his long litany of sales talk. Again, it was annoying.

They swiped my card. Voila, my 9k is gone. They even asked me to put in writing that the 9k is non-refundable. WTH?! They actually asked us to do it after the fact.

My head really hurt and the acid in my stomach told me that I was about to have an ulcer.

I left Danvil by then, feeling uneasy. I knew in my mind that I was duped.

On the next day, I did my research. I learned that there are many people like me who felt that they were victimized by the aggressive marketing strategy of Danvil.

I had to get my money back.

Unfortunately, I was assigned again in Batam, Indonesia. I was not able to cancel my account in Danvil. I was even charged for two months eventhough I clearly stated in my request to them via email that I wanted the autocharge to my credit card to stop.

I searched the internet on ways to refund my money.

Good thing I was able to refund the two months that they charged to my credit card.

Bad news is, I was not able to refund the 9k initial deposit.

I could have sued Danvil, but it is time consuming and not practical.

I can only do this. Spread the news. Danvil is a company that we cannot trust unless they change their marketing strategy.

Asian Drama for your viewing pleasure

2009-02-14T19:00:00.001+08:00

I must confess that I am an asian drama addict. There are elements in asian dramas that make me feel at home. Well first, I am asian. Our culture is similar to them one way or the other. I appreciate these asian dramas more than the western ones, need I say more?

Here is the list of my top10 asian dramas so far:

1. Nobuta wo Produce
2. Nodame Cantabile
3. Beethoven's Virus
4. Boys Over Flower
5. Proposal Daisakusen
6. Full House
7. My Name Is Kim Sam Soon
8. Fated to love you
9. Prince Princess 2
10. Lovers in Paris

This list is subject to change depending on the humidity and peso-dollar exchange rate.

Do you agree with my list? Haha. Let me do a review to each one of these shows so that I can convince you a bit more.

Happy watching!

Terima Kasih

2009-02-14T17:11:00.000+08:00

Terimah kasih ke orang-orang.

Please excuse my Bahasa Indonesia. I am not still fluent with it, though I am being assigned to Indonesia more than six months already.

Actually, I wanted to say thank you to all the people here. Terima Kasih.

Nice way to practice Bahasa, isn't it?

What words have I learned so far? My vocabulary is still not impressive, so please bear with me.

Every morning, we hear Selamat pagi, which means Good Morning.

Selamat Malam if you want to say Good Evening.

Chances are, the first greeting that you could have read at your arrival here in Indonesia would have been Selamat Datang. You're right! It means Welcome.

Bahasa Indonesia, compared to Filipino and other languages that we have in the Philippines are quite similar. It is expected as we can trace the roots of our languages to Malay. That's why, it's not surprising for me to hear familiar words like anak (children), pintu (gate), susu (milk) and cuka (vinegar).

Look at how they count - satu, duwa, tiga, ampat, lima, nam, tudyu, lapan, similan. Familiar, isn't it?

Beware that if you ask for ketsup, they will give you their version of toyo. Haha.

As you may have already known, Indonesians love spicy food. Almost every food here has chili. No pork. It's part of their religion. That's why the food here are Halal. How was I able to survive, you might ask. I do like spicy food, but not like what we have here. There's chilli everywhere. I have began to tolerate it a bit. It's boring if I gonna eat at the KFC every single day. I need to adjust and it was a success. I can now eat nasi goreng seafood (fried rice with seafood) with gusto! Haha.

Till next time.

-2^2 = ???

2009-02-14T15:24:00.001+08:00

I stumbled upon this thread in pinoyexchange which attempts to discuss and possibly to come up with the correct answer to the expression -2^2.

For the uninitiated, this would seem like to be a very simple expression and they would oftentimes answer that it should +4.

However, for some (if not most) mathematicians or those who are very much inclined to mathematics, think otherwise. The answer should be -4.

Why?

It is important to know whether the base in the expression -2^2 is 2 or -2.

We believe that it is 2. The negative sign should be treated as an operation which has lower hierarchy than Exponent. Hence, the expression should be read as the "negative value of the square of 2".

Look at the following:

0 + 2^2 = 4

No problem with that, right?

But, how about this?

0 - 2^2 = ??

Should it be 4 or -4?

I agree that this causes confusion among students and professionals alike. That's why it is imperative that we use () in grouping expressions such as the one being discussed here.

What are your thoughts here?

My very first post

2009-02-14T10:57:00.000+08:00

Why did I even think of blogging? I am a private person and I want to keep things for myself. My life is not for public consumption.

So what on earth am I doing right now? Am I contradicting myself?

Not necessarily. I still can be a private person that I am, at the same time, share some of my thoughts that I deem safe for you to know... Haha.

So what are my reasons for doing this blog? The answer is quite simple. This appears to be the IN thing right now. A lot of people I know do this, so why not me? I jump to the bandwagon, so what's wrong with it? I would like to experience the same things that my friends are experiencing. If this works fine, then I'll continue. If it ends up a mess, then you won't see me blogging anymore. I have one wish though. May I win the blogger of the year award. Haha. That's a wish folks, don't blame me for aiming too high.

It also helped in my decision to start this blog that , in introspect, I am an opinionated person. I have lots in my mind now. Blogging could help me ease the tension of my neurons. Free up some space. I badly need that.

This could also be beneficial too for me in many ways.

1. This will serve as my eternal diary. I can always look back at my posts and laugh at myself for being stup!d at times. I also have this habit of pointing out my mistakes, feel ashamed about it, then move on. Yes, my friends, grammatical errors included. However, I do hope that I could write something that I can be proud of. I want to relive the memories of my school days when I used to write for our school publication (being an editor-in-chief at that), and when I used to compete in various essay writing contests (English and Filipino) and journalism too (Filipino). Those were the days that I have received recognition outside my school. Hey, they have taste. They have considered my writing skills better than most of my competition back then. Haha...

2. I want to post lots of pictures. I have lots stored in my hard disk now. I do hope that I can upload lots of them and I do hope that I won't get lazy anytime soon. I'm a bit excited. I want to share a story or two about these pictures.

3. I want this site to be a place for my friends (and soon to be friends) to stay connected. Leave comments. A simple "Hi" would do. Nah, it would be better if you can write something longer that I could read until my brain hurts. Why not make it "Hi, Hello... you're so gwapo"? That's one intelligently structured sentimental remark, isn't it? Haha.

What to expect from my blog?

1. Apologetics - about christianity, my faith and my personal relationship with God. I hope that we could grow together in faith and that you could realize that science does not necessarily contradict religion. The two goes hand in hand.

2. Philosophy - anything under the sun that we can analyze together, scrutinize, chopped into pieces, uncover its relevance to the world we live in, taking off our blinders and subject everything to cold logic...

3. Science and mathematics - two disciplines closest to my heart. I am first and foremost a mathematician before I am man of science. Mathematics helped me get through with the sciences. I am very thankful for that.

4. Animes - I am big fan of animes, especially Naruto and Bleach. I felt sad when Jiraiya-sama died. I am patiently waiting for Unohana-taichou to show her bankai. If you have some equally impressive animes that I have yet to discover, please send me a message. I would be delighted to hear from you.

5. Books - I read a lot. I hope to share with you the books that I've read. The authors that I adore and the stories that pierced through my soul. Yes, pocketbooks included. Haha. I read books ranging from "ABNKKBSNPLAko", "The Little Prince" and "Harry Potter" to "God, Chance and Necessity" and "The Physics of Christianity".

6. Entertainment - what's the latest buzz in the showbiz world? No, you cannot learn it from me. I am always the last one to know, believe me. But, I am delighted to know the latest tidbits in the showbiz that help me escape, even for a nanosecond, from this cruel world called JOB. May it be Pinoy Big Brother, Pinoy Dream Academy, Pinoy Fear Factor, or Tayong Dalawa and Maalaala Mo Kaya, I am willing to share what's on my mind... even if I am no expert.

7. Sports and Hobbies - wanna play chess? how about sudoku? wanna play PSP or Nintendo?

8. Technology - being in the industry, I must be in the know of the latest technology. I will post here what I feel is relevant to the world that we are in right now.

9. Others - this is the most important part... the almighty word... OTHERS. If one feels that not everything is covered, it's safe to include this in your list. Oh, damn it. I have just remembered my PLM handbook. Haha.

Now, I officially welcome you to my world. Enjoy the ride.