There was one reason why I went into the journalism world: because I wanted to communicate to more people the stories that I felt didn't get enough attention in hopes that it would help them think differently. As Howie Severino put it in this speech, I felt a passion to "explain the world to ordinary people."
After just 14 months in the world of journalism, I moved to a different world--the academe--though my vision has remained the same. This was five years ago.
I'm happy where I am now. Nonetheless, there are two things I miss about the world of journalism: being at the grassroots (or at least, being able to visit the grassroots), and being able to reach such a large audience. The Ivory Tower really is so removed from the world.
I want to do something about it, but I'm not sure what.
Whatever that "something" is, is number one on my list of New Year's Resolutions for 2006.
One of the first carols I ever learned (which I was taught to sing to the tune of "Flow gently, sweet Afton" rather than the more common tune) was Away in a Manger.
Away in a manger, No crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus Laid down His sweet head. The stars in the bright sky Looked down where He lay At the little Lord Jesus Asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing The poor Baby wakes But little Lord Jesus No crying He makes I love Thee, Lord Jesus Look down from the sky And stay by my bedside, 'Til morning is nigh.
Happy Christmas, everybody! May the paradox of the Incarnation--that our God emptied Himself to be a little baby in the manger--continue to bring us wonder, amazement, and joy!
One of my earliest philosophical questions was the mystery of suffering. Why do people suffer?
I have found my answer, but my great spiritual uncle in the search for that answer has been Saint John of the Cross, patron of contemplative mystics, who struggled with desolation and darkness throughout his life, and who forged from that suffering an incredible testament to God's love through his Dark Night. John of the Cross' Feast Day was yesterday. Reading him is entering a sea of wisdom and love for Christ so deep and wide that few other spiritual writings outside of Scripture can compare.
A dear, dear friend from college was here visiting the Philippines for WAY TOO SHORT A TIME but it was such a joy, joy, joy to see him and the rest of my college buddies.
Meanwhile, it has just struck me that Christmas is a week and a half away, and I've barely done any Christmas shopping! Blah.
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Quiz time:
Your Birthdate: October 30
You have the type of personality that people either love or hate. You're opinionated, dramatic, intense, and very outspoken. And some people can't get enough of you - they're totally addicted. Others, well, they wish you were a little more reserved.
Comments by YACCS.
