The Eraserheads' Legacy Lives On

         It was around 4pm when I received a text from my staff that I can enter the Eraserhead Reunion concert with them for our coverage. I was excited because originally my plan was to buy a ticket from the venue itself and watch it with a couple of friends; but I guess God has other plans for me. I received more than what I’d hope for. I was given a media pass and a backstage entrance for the concert.

          It was indeed historic, a magnificent event that I would never forget for the rest of my life. Would you believe? I was actually in front of the stage, a place where everyone wants to be in. Anyway, I was a bit nervous when I was about to enter the venue because openly I’m really a big fan of the Eraserheads and like any other fan, I also can’t believe that this concert is actually happening. Everybody was screaming and the anticipation gets higher as the start of the concerts gets nearer. After awhile, all the lights were shut off and the countdown began. Then from a life-sized screen at the center of stage, came “The Beatles” of the Philippines, four iconic individuals gracing the much-awaited concert of the year. It was definitely a once in lifetime experience believe me. I don’t know how to react. I can’t believe what I’m seeing because after more than a decade, the Eraserheads are back once again now even better and much stronger.

          Eli, Marcus, Buddy and Raymund sang their hearts out. Just like their fans they were as thrilled to be actually sharing this common dream. A dream that someday they can patch things out and start something new for them and for their fans. True enough, the dream came to reality through this humongous reunion concert. Everyone was having fun until after set one’s break, Marcus, Raymund, Buddy, the organizers and some of Eli’s family members went to the stage and announced the unexpected. I already knew what was happening. I can sense it coming. I saw an ambulance rushing someone to the hospital and I was wishing and hoping that it was not Eli but my gut feeling said it all. The unexpected happened. Eli was rushed to a nearby hospital after suffering a mild heart attack due to unexplainable circumstances. The whole venue stopped in silence as Eli’s sister announced the tragic event. I just can’t believe it. This dream come true event for me fell right before my very eyes. I wasn’t disappointed but more of distracted and shocked upon hearing the news.

        Everybody was stunned and the venue suddenly transformed into a vast land of uncontrolled emotions. Many fans cried as the night that was envisioned to be historic ended with a tragic incident. The family together with the band members and an estimated crowd of 30,000 followers offered a 1-minute of prayer for Eli’s quick recovery.

         I had the time of my life that I can’t deny but as a fan of the Eraserheads I was devastated. The word is right, devastated. I just wish for better things to happen after this momentous night. I know that in God’s will everything will be perfectly alright for Eli and this band who inspired me through the years. Again thank you for the music, thank you for living our dreams! You just rocked our world again! Keep on walking…keep on believing…the Eraserhead legacy will live and will forever stay in the hearts of every Filipino!

Hell Breaks Loose

       There are just things that we can’t control. These are things we don’t want to happen but are bound to happen just like what I’ve experienced the other day. I never wanted such thing to happen but because I had to do something about the situation, I burst out and asserted my sentiments. Let’s just say that my anger that day almost degraded their being. I just lost it; I lost control of everything, my reasoning, just thinking and fair judgment. You can’t blame me; I’ve been good to them since day one and this the first time I got berserk after 5 months of being silent on their unprofessionalism and stubbornness.

          All I wanted was to be heard and to reinstate authority over something that was being neglected and overseen for so many months. I could have done it in a good and a more civil way but I guess that kind of approach is not anymore applicable to these people. Actually, I have nothing against them, we’re all friends but when it comes to work, it’s all a different ballgame. They didn’t deliver then suffer the consequences and this is not the first time this thing happen as I’ve said a while ago. It’s an every week occurrence, a vicious cycle I would want to put an end to. Being dominant and harsh is the only way I know how; to make them realize that yes they have an obligation to fulfill, that they are what they do and that being in this business takes a lot of hardships and dedications to remain afloat and intact.

          I don’t regret anything. I know I’ve hurt their feelings and in a way crossed the line a bit but they all deserved it. I’ve been quiet for sometime and they abused it. I’m fair, just and very objective but when my back is against the wall, I could be your worst nightmare. Anyway, life must go on for me. I’d probably take this experience and learn from it. But I’d like to still thank these people for making me feel bad that day because if not for them I would never feel what its like to be a human again.

           

Gentle Giant

           It’s almost always flattering when someone praises you because of your achievements and good work. But is sickening when someone criticizes you without any basis at all. It’s even worst when you know you’re doing nothing wrong and still that person wants to bury you six feet below to the point of leaving you with nothing to be proud of. Life really is unfair, there’s nothing I can do about that. If only I can be that insensitive guy, I wish I am but I’m not, then I wouldn’t be affected this way.

            I don’t want you to pity me because I’m not the type who will just allow this kind of degradation to happen to me. Just like a general who goes in a war with a plan, I’m more than ready and I know this day would come. The day when I know I have to face the ghost which has long been haunting me that I’ve been keeping in my closet for so many years. I don’t burst out easily but when I do, I can be your worst nightmare. I just hate this kind of feeling. I just don’t want to be the man I was before. But if its needed, I’m more than willing to shift gears and battle them all out in this game that they know they are good at. But then again, I’m reformed and more accepting now.

            I love a peaceful life; this is how I’m leaving my life now. So to finally leave these things behind, I’d rather choose to be quiet and calm. I’m a fighter but I love my life now. I don’t want to ruin it just like what I did before. You may think I’m a big loser for not fighting back, then be it. I’ve already wasted a lot of my time combating these kinds of people in the past and I don’t want to lose this serene and tranquil state that I almost wasn’t able to find that I’m happily experiencing now. 

Houston You Have A Problem!

       Sometimes life can be very fragile and complicated. Huh! What a relief? Finally, I’m back to my usual form because I’m blogging my thoughts once again. It’s been awhile since I last entered a blog. I just miss writing and freely expressing my sentiments. I tried to write several times before just to have a new entry but I just can’t do it. Honestly, nothing is popping into my mind…nothing is coming out of my imaginative senses. I could have written a lot but like any other writer, I can’t write something if I’m not in the mood or worst not inspired.

       Anyway, I’m here and what can I say. In last few weeks I’ve been preoccupied with things that concern my managing skills. I must admit that managing people is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. It’s stressing and sometimes can really get out of hand. Imagine leading a team with people having different personalities and attitudes. It’s a nightmare believe me. But I’ve been trying hard to balance everything, from being damn objective and emotionally fair to my subordinates. However, there are times that you have to break several rules to stay on the top of your game, if you know what I’m saying. This is where the problem starts. I for myself is a self-confessed emotional freak who gives more attention to emotions rather than facts of life. What can I do? I was born like that but I’m doing something about it.

       Honestly speaking, I’m very impatient, I like quick results and I want my staff to work exactly the way I do. That is how my superiors trained me. I’m a perfectionist and I don’t want people who can’t deliver. That’s why whenever they fail to reach my expectations, I easily get irritated and most of the time emotional and irrational. I would scold them and say things that sometimes are very hurtful and insensitive in nature. Okay, they are only humans and they are not perfect; I’ll buy that but what a lame excuse. If I can do my job well, why can’t they do theirs? I’ve been in their shoes before but I didn’t mess up big time just like what they are doing now. They are so unprofessional with their work. They don’t value time and even their reputation. I just don’t get it. I also had my fair share of mistakes in my work, who hasn’t? But I learn from them and promise not to repeat the same mistake again. If only they would understand where I’m coming then there will be no problem. I only hope for the best. God help them!

       Okay the problem is real and is worsening everyday. But I’m trying real hard to change the perception of these people on their work. I want them to be as dedicated as I am before it’s too late. I’m not being arrogant, but I’ve been there before and I don’t want them to commit the same mistake that almost ended my career!

Clueless Ride

      It has been a rough day for me. Everything was in place except my mind, which I guess has flown away, again out of my system.  I know shouldn’t be acting this way because to be honest I don’t have any problem. Yah of course I’m fine, I assume I am. But no, I’m not yes for a minute and the rest…confused and upset!

        I don’t know how to react. I’m here in front of my computer writing thoughts straight from my head without actually thinking. My fingers just keep on hitting the keys on this keyboard. It’s strange and it happens all the time. Actually, I don’t know what I’m typing. I’m not sure if this is right. I’m confused and I don’t want to stop because if I do, I don’t know where I’ll be going. This laptop is my refuge; this blank page is the only one who can take all my blows and hang-ups in life. Who the hell wants to be in the situation I am right now? See? No one.

        This is getting out of control. The signs are clear. The moment of truth is almost here. You probably don’t know what I’m saying. It’s ok; you don’t have to understand. I just need a little of your time. Read between the lines I dare you and if you succeed in getting my message, I’ll free my mind and finish what I am destined to do. 

Secrets of Success

       I must admit I had my own share of triumphant endeavors in my life most of which are in my work as a media practitioner. In the last six years of my career I have discovered a few secrets to become successful. Here are some of these secrets to help you find your own success.

1) Give in to your desires in life.

2) Never underestimate your potentials to succeed.

3) Enjoy your work and make it exciting everyday.

4) Respect the people around you.

5) Be humble despite your many achievements.

6) Be inspired.

7) Believe that there’s always a solution to every problem.

8) Don’t stop improving and experimenting.

9) Explore your options and when you find it grab it as if there’s no tomorrow.

10) Always include sex in your itinerary.