Online Resolution

Christmas is a time for family warmth and home coming, but for some people, it is the season of much stress with traveling, spending, preparing, among other reasons. Thankfully, these days, keeping in touch is no longer limited to a telephone call or occasional meeting up. We can stay connected with our loved ones and friends through channels such as the social media or online video calling. We can also communicate, share text, photos, videos, music and other media files with just about everybody around the world using mobile phones, digital tablets, or computers.

Nevertheless, when we share about our private lives to the public, we need always to be careful because such sharing can affect others and how they think of us. Our bosses, colleagues, relatives, and friends, for example, might see us as weak or ill-mannered reading some of our status update on social networks. Leaks through words of mouth by people sharing what they read from our social media postings and blogs can also spread and cause damage to relationships.

When I first started a blog, it was not something I wanted to do, but because I was assigned as a journalist by my editor to write an article on blogging and to interview people to find out their thoughts on the subject. A number of people I interviewed gave their reason for blogging as wanting to make friends who share similar interests, while some said they blog to de-stress or fight for a cause.

“Of course, we run the risk of facing ridicule and criticism from people posting their comments,” said an ardent blogger. “But we can deal with it.”

Like many bloggers, I frequently offload my burdens writing about the things that happened in my life. Many people came to know me and my innermost thoughts reading my blog. Today, my life is an open book, found within the pages of my writings. Blogging is my medium of choice to reach out to the masses in the world. With my blog linked to various social network communities, every blog entry I post gets to reach out to the masses and the targeted people.

Of course, once in a while, I would receive some argumentative or negative comments at my blog or social network pages. Thankfully, those were dealt with without quarrel or hurtful feelings.

What about the rest of us? How do we participate online?

As we prepare ourselves for the coming year, let's remember not to let negative words proceed from us, for such can hurt others and expose us to ridicule.  Whether we are conversing, sharing videos, images, music or other types of media files, let's share only whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, or praiseworthy.

Merry Christmas 2013

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father.

Lost and Not Yet Found

Ten years ago, I have the confidence that if I dropped something without knowing, someone behind me who saw it would pick it up and give it back to me or at least inform me I've dropped something. Today, I cannot say the same would happen in this nation-state.

Just yesterday, I unknowingly dropped a fanny pack. After walking more than 50 meters, I realized it was lost and quickly walked back the trail to search. I also went to where I suspect I dropped the fanny pack as I felt then something came loose.

Unfortunately, nothing was found. I've lost my ATM/Debit card, driving licence, Android phone, and a few other items. A police report was filed and I am praying that some kind soul would return the items to a police station.

It was a sad day for me after canceling my debit card and obtaining a replacement SIM card. Till now, I am still hoping that I don't have to do the same for my driving licence and a few other cards.

What do you think? Is it possible there is still some redeeming grace for the people living in this nation to do the right thing?