(Note: Since the launch on July 8th, 2011 of NASA's space shuttle orbiter Atlantis, the last shuttle/spaceship to orbit the Earth and to dock with/at the International Space Station (ISS), I got interested in learning more about NASA's space programs via the internet, specifically on YouTube. Yes, I somehow got hooked on knowing/watching the latest happenings of the Atlantis and the International Space Station, specially now that the latter has six residents on board. The Expedition 28 crew of ISS are Russian cosmonauts Andrey Borisenko (commander), Sergei Volkov (flight engineer), Alexander Samokutyaev (flight engineer), Japanese astronaut Satoshi Furukawa (flight engineer), NASA/American astronauts Ronald Garan, Jr. (flight engineer) and Michael "Mike" Fossum (flight engineer, who will be the next commander of ISS- Expedition 29). It's unbelievable what cooperation and collaboration can do! Together is the future, as NASA stated.
Reading/researching and watching more about NASA on newspapers and in the internet, I came to know that this final flight of Atlantis also culminates the end of the space agency's shuttle mission program that has been in existence since 1981. This 135th shuttle flight is, therefore, historical. The NASA/American astronauts that made up the STS (Space Transport System)-135 crew of Atlantis are US Navy Captain (Retired) Christopher Ferguson (commander), US Marine Colonel Doug Hurley (pilot), and two mission specialists Dr. Sandra Magnus and US Air Force Colonel (Retired) Rex Walheim. Their mission to ISS, according to NASA, is to "deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module containing supplies and spare parts to sustain the orbiting station or outpost's operations once the shuttle retires" and to bring trash back to Earth. After 12 or 13 days in orbit, Atlantis is scheduled to be back to Earth on July 21, Thursday morning. And, thereafter, the spaceship becomes a museum piece/exhibit like the other space shuttles Enterprise (at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York), Discovery ( at Smithsonian's National Air & Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, and Endeavor (to California Science Center in Los Angeles, CA. The shuttle-orbiter Atlantis will be housed or on display at Kennedy Space Center Visitor's Complex in Florida.
On the other hand, NASA's abandonment of the space shuttle program doesn't mean the end of space program for the United States. On the contrary, private/commercial companies, such as Virgin Galactic (by Sir Richard Branson, founder and CEO of the Virgin Group), Blue Origin (by Jeff Bezos, CEO and founder of Amazon.com), and Bigelow Aerospace (by Robert Bigelow, owner of Budget Suites of America hotels), will take over the building and flying of space vehicles, and building of private space stations for space "tourists or travelers" while the National Aeronautics and Space Agency will focus/concentrate on sending mankind to an asteroid, and again to the moon, and other planets like Mars. Yes, the quest for space exploration continues. Indeed, collaboration and cooperation, togetherness, unity and harmony are the keys to a successful space exploration. Hence, I wish NASA and its partners all the best in their future endeavors for humankind!Thank you to all of our world's astronauts, cosmonauts, scientists, engineers, and explorers, past, present, and future, for your undying vision and mission of venturing into space and beyond the next frontier. Hail to you all heroes of space exploration for all your efforts, contributions, and sacrifices! And to those who have gone before us, leaving their legacy of awe and wonder, excitement and discovery, for the sake of Science, may you rest in peace! May your legacy live on and on...
Capturing the moment in the history of space exploration, I have scribbled the following lines for posterity's sake.)
Space Exploration Collaboration
Russia's Sputnik started it
then America followed
the quest for space
and the challenge was set
thus, space race began
with Yuri Gagarin into orbit...
followed by Alan Shepard and John Glenn
of Project Mercury, and then
Guss Grissom and John Young
of Project Gemini...
Then the Apollo astronauts went to the moon
Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins
and others, the rest, like Sally Ride
the first American female astronaut in space
they all made history
in the name of space exploration...
Early on, USSR and USA in spotlight
two powerful countries became enemies
two rival powerful countries became friends
partners to collaboration and teamwork
Mir and Skylab in joint partnership
then, Soyuz and space shuttle missions
from dreams to reality
fifteen countries in unity
working and sharing together
hopefully, forever and ever.
Now, the birth of the ISS
the International Space Station
the largest artificial satellite on Earth
so far an orbiting laboratory
a product of ingenuity
and unity for all humanity.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration
the Russian Federal Space Agency
the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
the Canadian Space Agency
the European Space Agency
they all have joined together
and with others, hopefully, forever
to make the ISS a beauty in the sky
an object visible to the naked eye
over two hundred miles above the Earth
orbiting every ninety-two minutes
continuously, without stopping
day or night, night or day
working and exploring
testing and researching
for peace, for a better life
here on Earth and beyond
the outer space...
copyright 2011 by chris alibin quilpa
Friday, July 15, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Hello, Goodbye*
hello, goodbye
welcoming, departing words
the alpha, the omega
the beginning and the end
how glad, how sad
to come and go
leaving something for others to know.
hello, goodbye
but, why?
there's got to be
a reason why
we live, we die
only to be born again
to be forgotten in the end...
hello, goodbye
but, why?
copyright 2011 by chris alibin quilpa
*Appeared in Skipping Stones 2005 (an anthology of Hampton Roads, Virginia poets, artists, & photographers), published/produced by Chesapeake Bay Poets.
welcoming, departing words
the alpha, the omega
the beginning and the end
how glad, how sad
to come and go
leaving something for others to know.
hello, goodbye
but, why?
there's got to be
a reason why
we live, we die
only to be born again
to be forgotten in the end...
hello, goodbye
but, why?
copyright 2011 by chris alibin quilpa
*Appeared in Skipping Stones 2005 (an anthology of Hampton Roads, Virginia poets, artists, & photographers), published/produced by Chesapeake Bay Poets.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
On Summer Safety
Now that summer is in full swing in the U.S. and other countries in North America, like Canada, there is this important issue that you and I are concerned about. It's Safety! Yes, folks, SAFETY is the keyword to enjoying our summer (vacation), whether we're vacationing somewhere or having fun out there under the sun, sea-surfing and/or swimming in/outdoor.
Word of caution, my dear folks. If you're out there under the sun, on the beach or in the park, please cover your head and body (no pun intended!) if you have something available, i.e., a ball cap, a hat, or whatever, a newspaper or magazine, maybe. Have that bath towel handy to cover your shoulders. But if you have an umbrella, that's much better. I know what's in your mind, folks. But, why pay attention to what others may say when they see you in that para sol umbrella? After all, that is what it is for anyway. likewise, if you have sun (tan) lotion, just apply it over your face and whole body that's exposed to the sun. As you know, prolonged exposure to the sun is dangerous. You may get skin cancer or melanoma, as what dermatologists used to say. Furthermore, to protect yourself from being sun-burned, wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirt. If you don't cover yourself, sooner or later, you'll look older than your age.
Many agencies, associations, organizations have posted lots of safety tips or information, in their website, that we can observe while enjoying our summer (vacation).
For water safety, while swimming, the American Red Cross issued the following safety guidelines: 1) Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. 2) Always swim with a buddy, even at public pools or life-guarded beaches. 3) Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well. Enroll in age-appropriate Red Cross water orientation and learn-to-swim courses. 4) Never leave a young child unattended near water and never trust a child's life to another child. 5) Do not let anyone play around drains and suction fittings and do forbid swimmers from have breath-holding contests. 6) Avoid alcohol use, as it impairs judgement, balance, and coordination; affects swimming and driving skills; and reduces the body's ability to stay warm.
For boating safety, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers these safety tips: Life jacket must be worn at all times when on boat or near bodies of water. Also, when having fun in the sun, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater that protects you against UVA or UVB rays.
Moreover, the American Red Cross recommends the following safety precautions: 1) Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Eat small meals and eat more often. 2) Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun's rays. 3) Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Postpone outdoor games and activities. 4) Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat. 5) Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles. Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
Among the heat-related emergencies that we need to be aware of are the following:
1) Heat Cramps---these are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen. They are caused by exposure to high heat. heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.
2) Heat Exhaustion---typically involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity. The signs, or what to look for: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness, and exhaustion. What to do: a) Move the person to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. b) If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911 or the local emergency number.
3) Heat Stroke---also known as sunstroke, this is a life-threatening condition in which a person's temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself. The signs or what to look for: hot, red skin that may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. What to do: a) Heat stroke is life-threatening! Call 911 or the local emergency number immediately! b) Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person's body by giving care as you would for heat exhaustion. If needed, continue rapid cooling by applying ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits.
For more information, please visit www.redcross.org and/or www.AAP.org. Have a safe summer, everyone!
Word of caution, my dear folks. If you're out there under the sun, on the beach or in the park, please cover your head and body (no pun intended!) if you have something available, i.e., a ball cap, a hat, or whatever, a newspaper or magazine, maybe. Have that bath towel handy to cover your shoulders. But if you have an umbrella, that's much better. I know what's in your mind, folks. But, why pay attention to what others may say when they see you in that para sol umbrella? After all, that is what it is for anyway. likewise, if you have sun (tan) lotion, just apply it over your face and whole body that's exposed to the sun. As you know, prolonged exposure to the sun is dangerous. You may get skin cancer or melanoma, as what dermatologists used to say. Furthermore, to protect yourself from being sun-burned, wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirt. If you don't cover yourself, sooner or later, you'll look older than your age.
Many agencies, associations, organizations have posted lots of safety tips or information, in their website, that we can observe while enjoying our summer (vacation).
For water safety, while swimming, the American Red Cross issued the following safety guidelines: 1) Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. 2) Always swim with a buddy, even at public pools or life-guarded beaches. 3) Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well. Enroll in age-appropriate Red Cross water orientation and learn-to-swim courses. 4) Never leave a young child unattended near water and never trust a child's life to another child. 5) Do not let anyone play around drains and suction fittings and do forbid swimmers from have breath-holding contests. 6) Avoid alcohol use, as it impairs judgement, balance, and coordination; affects swimming and driving skills; and reduces the body's ability to stay warm.
For boating safety, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers these safety tips: Life jacket must be worn at all times when on boat or near bodies of water. Also, when having fun in the sun, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater that protects you against UVA or UVB rays.
Moreover, the American Red Cross recommends the following safety precautions: 1) Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Eat small meals and eat more often. 2) Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun's rays. 3) Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Postpone outdoor games and activities. 4) Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat. 5) Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles. Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
Among the heat-related emergencies that we need to be aware of are the following:
1) Heat Cramps---these are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen. They are caused by exposure to high heat. heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.
2) Heat Exhaustion---typically involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity. The signs, or what to look for: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness, and exhaustion. What to do: a) Move the person to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. b) If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911 or the local emergency number.
3) Heat Stroke---also known as sunstroke, this is a life-threatening condition in which a person's temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself. The signs or what to look for: hot, red skin that may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. What to do: a) Heat stroke is life-threatening! Call 911 or the local emergency number immediately! b) Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person's body by giving care as you would for heat exhaustion. If needed, continue rapid cooling by applying ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits.
For more information, please visit www.redcross.org and/or www.AAP.org. Have a safe summer, everyone!
Monday, July 11, 2011
On Summer Reading
For all of us in the U.S. and in North America, we're undoubtedly encountering or experiencing the summer heat, literally. Thanks to God that our centralized air conditioning (AC) unit in the house is functioning well. That adds a lot to the comfort of our home. (I do hope and pray that it continues to work for the duration of summer until early fall or autumn.) And, what a nice feeling to sit down on a quiet corner of the house, with a book or any reading material on hand! This brings me to the topic on summer reading, my friends. By the way, I'd like to know what (book/s) are you reading this summer, if you won't mind?
It has been customary for me to have something to read while using the restroom at home. Just this morning, I happened to get hold of this PARADE magazine, a supplementary publication to Sunday's edition of The Virginian-Pilot or any designated daily newspaper that comes out Sundays in newsstands. In the front page/cover of PARADE, July 10, 2011 issue, it reads, in bold letter SUMMER READING! It shows a picture of a book with a pair of shades. "What to read on the beach, in the airport, or by the pool" That's what's printed on the front cover of the book, in upright position, with the sand with seashells and a towel on the background depicting the beach. Aha, that gave me the idea and here it is...writing about the topic from the above-mentioned magazine.
Being a neophyte then in the use of Facebook, I still recall/remember a quotation I shared with you, my FB friends, on my FB page wall/status in mid May this year. That quotation by a University of Oxford (England)-educated, English essayist, poet, and statesman Joseph Addison (1672-1719) reads, "Reading is to the mind, what exercise is to the body." It is such an inspiration to me, and I love it. The fact is, I try each day to practice it just as I do pray daily. The quotation is quite self-explanatory, you know. Just as our body needs physical (fitness) exercise, i.e., engaging in sports, walking, running, jogging, our mind needs exercise and nurturing, too. That means that we need to stimulate our brain to be able to use its full potential. Our brain has the capability to do so many things productively. And, reading is one way of exercising our brain power.
Three years ago, I had a short article published in Suffolk News-Herald, July 24, 2008, entitled "The Joys of Summer Reading which I'm happy to share with you. Sit back, and relax as you peruse it, with hope that you'll be inspired to keep on reading, even for fun, like me. Here it is...
Have you ever thought of spending your summer reading, while enjoying (or trying to enjoy) your summer?
Summer reading is a wholesome, mental activity that can make your summer (vacation) more interesting, challenging and, quite frankly, stimulating to the brain or the mind.
Reading is fun, and it helps sharpen our mind and makes us more knowledgeable about current events, issues affecting us and our livelihood, stories that are inspiring and entertaining, and educational.
Let's indulge ourselves imagining, wondering, especially when we're reading a travelogue or an article about this or that place. While reading, say for example, a newspaper, like Suffolk News-Herald, The Virginian-Pilot, USA Today or The New York Times, we learn not only the latest news, and events, in our community or country but also gain insights and understanding into other people's lives, their thoughts and ideas. Likewise, when we're reading a biography, for example, we come to know how and when that person lived and what legacy or contribution/s s/he made. Let's read anything that helps exercise our mind to think, to analyze issues, to be critical and judgmental, to be active and proactive.
While reading an article by Michael Kelly of Albany Times Union, I found this 2008 Kids and Family Reading Report by Scholastic (a children's book publisher) alarming and shocking. It states that children are reading less and less for fun while many kids now are reading for fun on the Internet!
Kelly offered the following ways or tips to get our kids to read for fun: 1) Read to your children. 2) Praise your child for reading. 3) Find out what your kids are interested in, and help them find books that match up. 4) Factor reading time into your children's schedules. 5) Help your child find a book series he or she enjoys. 6) Encourage kids to read at a young age, when they're most enthusiastic about reading. 7) Set aside time yourself, and read in front of your children. 8) Urge your kid/s to start a book club with friends. 9) Stick them in the library. 10) Use a book list to help your child choose age-appropriate, interesting books.
(Even though I have two young adult children already, I still read, aloud, most of the time, especially when reading newspaper in our kitchen table. Somehow, I feel like I have to do this reading aloud activity not only for me but for others in my family, you know, especially my wife if she's around the kitchen preparing food. Even when I'm all alone in the house, I read the papers aloud. But, of course, not as loud as disturbing the neighbors or that creates a nuisance, you know what I mean.)
It's obvious what reading can do to/for us. In a split-second, it can change us and our whole perspective of life and things around us. It can motivate us to do positive things for others. It can illuminate our narrow viewpoint of life and, therefore, open our eyes to new horizons, new possibilities to improve our lot and our world. It can help transform us and our world.
You and I will be amazed at the power of reading, whether reading a book or via the Internet, or on Kindle. It will ultimately transform us into a well-informed and concerned citizens who have the power to change our lives for the better. Thanks, and keep on reading, folks!
It has been customary for me to have something to read while using the restroom at home. Just this morning, I happened to get hold of this PARADE magazine, a supplementary publication to Sunday's edition of The Virginian-Pilot or any designated daily newspaper that comes out Sundays in newsstands. In the front page/cover of PARADE, July 10, 2011 issue, it reads, in bold letter SUMMER READING! It shows a picture of a book with a pair of shades. "What to read on the beach, in the airport, or by the pool" That's what's printed on the front cover of the book, in upright position, with the sand with seashells and a towel on the background depicting the beach. Aha, that gave me the idea and here it is...writing about the topic from the above-mentioned magazine.
Being a neophyte then in the use of Facebook, I still recall/remember a quotation I shared with you, my FB friends, on my FB page wall/status in mid May this year. That quotation by a University of Oxford (England)-educated, English essayist, poet, and statesman Joseph Addison (1672-1719) reads, "Reading is to the mind, what exercise is to the body." It is such an inspiration to me, and I love it. The fact is, I try each day to practice it just as I do pray daily. The quotation is quite self-explanatory, you know. Just as our body needs physical (fitness) exercise, i.e., engaging in sports, walking, running, jogging, our mind needs exercise and nurturing, too. That means that we need to stimulate our brain to be able to use its full potential. Our brain has the capability to do so many things productively. And, reading is one way of exercising our brain power.
Three years ago, I had a short article published in Suffolk News-Herald, July 24, 2008, entitled "The Joys of Summer Reading which I'm happy to share with you. Sit back, and relax as you peruse it, with hope that you'll be inspired to keep on reading, even for fun, like me. Here it is...
Have you ever thought of spending your summer reading, while enjoying (or trying to enjoy) your summer?
Summer reading is a wholesome, mental activity that can make your summer (vacation) more interesting, challenging and, quite frankly, stimulating to the brain or the mind.
Reading is fun, and it helps sharpen our mind and makes us more knowledgeable about current events, issues affecting us and our livelihood, stories that are inspiring and entertaining, and educational.
Let's indulge ourselves imagining, wondering, especially when we're reading a travelogue or an article about this or that place. While reading, say for example, a newspaper, like Suffolk News-Herald, The Virginian-Pilot, USA Today or The New York Times, we learn not only the latest news, and events, in our community or country but also gain insights and understanding into other people's lives, their thoughts and ideas. Likewise, when we're reading a biography, for example, we come to know how and when that person lived and what legacy or contribution/s s/he made. Let's read anything that helps exercise our mind to think, to analyze issues, to be critical and judgmental, to be active and proactive.
While reading an article by Michael Kelly of Albany Times Union, I found this 2008 Kids and Family Reading Report by Scholastic (a children's book publisher) alarming and shocking. It states that children are reading less and less for fun while many kids now are reading for fun on the Internet!
Kelly offered the following ways or tips to get our kids to read for fun: 1) Read to your children. 2) Praise your child for reading. 3) Find out what your kids are interested in, and help them find books that match up. 4) Factor reading time into your children's schedules. 5) Help your child find a book series he or she enjoys. 6) Encourage kids to read at a young age, when they're most enthusiastic about reading. 7) Set aside time yourself, and read in front of your children. 8) Urge your kid/s to start a book club with friends. 9) Stick them in the library. 10) Use a book list to help your child choose age-appropriate, interesting books.
(Even though I have two young adult children already, I still read, aloud, most of the time, especially when reading newspaper in our kitchen table. Somehow, I feel like I have to do this reading aloud activity not only for me but for others in my family, you know, especially my wife if she's around the kitchen preparing food. Even when I'm all alone in the house, I read the papers aloud. But, of course, not as loud as disturbing the neighbors or that creates a nuisance, you know what I mean.)
It's obvious what reading can do to/for us. In a split-second, it can change us and our whole perspective of life and things around us. It can motivate us to do positive things for others. It can illuminate our narrow viewpoint of life and, therefore, open our eyes to new horizons, new possibilities to improve our lot and our world. It can help transform us and our world.
You and I will be amazed at the power of reading, whether reading a book or via the Internet, or on Kindle. It will ultimately transform us into a well-informed and concerned citizens who have the power to change our lives for the better. Thanks, and keep on reading, folks!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Home Alone on Independence Day, Three Years Ago
Happy Fourth, everyone!
As the United States of America celebrates her Independence Day (from Britain), 235 years ago today, I remember vividly what happened to me on July 4th, three years ago...
My wife and our college-bound daughter were at our friend's house attending the Fourth of July party. My young adult son was picked up by one of his college friends to go to their friend's house in the Peninsula to watch fireworks. My sister-in-law, who flew all the way from Hawaii to attend my daughter's high school graduation in late May, and has been with us since, was picked up by our "comadre" and "compadre" from Chesapeake a day before the Fourth to spend a week with them. (That's what comadre and compadre said.) So that all members of the family household was out on the Fourth of July. Except me!
You bet, I was home alone on Independence Day, while everybody was out there with their family and friends celebrating July Fourth. I never anticipated/expected to be home alone, watching fellow Americans partying, picnicking, enjoying, and having fun outside. Via our television set, that is. What happened, you ask? Well, it's not that I wanted to be home alone.Nope, I'm not that antisocial. On the contrary, I consider myself a people person, you know. C'mon, folks, who wants to be home alone, left out when there's this Big Party nationwide, out there, where everybody is proud to share his/her freedom and liberty, and patriotism, and bountiful blessings (received and enjoyed) to everyone, strange or familiar, small or tall, rich or poor?
I didn't have a choice but to stay home alone. I know, it's not fun. Not cool, either. But, I have to be home alone, though. I have to stay home for a reason. Or a couple of reasons, maybe. But why, you ask? Dare or not to ask, I tell you anyway.
I've been sick before and after the holiday. Frankly speaking, I'm still in the recuperating mode/mood? No, please, I don't need your sympathy (or empathy?). It just happened that I got sick with this unseasonal, or unseasonable, flu syndrome and acute sinusitis infection. Thanks to God that I, along with my wife, went to the hospital two days before the Fourth and was given antibiotic and other medications. But, man, I tell you. It's no joke to be sick, or kinda bedridden, especially if it's summertime. I don't like it! I hate being sick, especially on a national holiday such as the Fourth of July. Who would dare miss that feeling/experience of camaraderie, watching the display of spectacular fireworks live with family and friends? I missed having fun, being out there under the morning sun, doing my routine, walking, stretching out, and doing my physical conditioning. I tell you, how I love to be outdoor, close to Nature, appreciating the beauty and wonder of God's creation. Be it on the way, in the parking lot, at the grocery store or chain store, I love to meet people from all walks of life, young and old, black or white, yellow or brown, talking with/to them and sharing with them my thoughts and ideas. That's just me. That's my nature, matter-of-fact. If you aren't convinced, why don't you ask my wife or my children to find out. They'll quick to tell you about me, you know. I'm not kidding nor trying to brag or boast. As I've been telling to others, what you see (in me), is what you get. Plain and simple.
Anyway, I don't regret having been ill or sick, or not feeling good/well before and after the Fourth. In fact, I take it as a blessing. I do believe that it was God's will. I really do. Truly, I didn't have ill feelings. On the other hand, I thanked God for the opportunity to be home alone, on the Fourth, resting and trying to regain strength and health. As we all know, our body is like a machine and, constantly, it needs maintenance, check up, and repair. Just as we need relaxation and fun and entertainment, we also need rest and long hours of wholesome sleep for our body to recover. Yes, we need time to replenish our energy, especially if we're constantly on the go always. (I remember those early summer breaks my family and I have had in June. We went to western part of Virginia, to Farmville, to Natural Bridge, to Charlottesville, and spent a couple of days/nights in those historical places of interests.We had a lot of fun, notwithstanding meeting new friends and learning something more about those places we visited. Probably, it's exhaustion or fatigue, or that smoke from that Great Dismal Swamp fire that lasted for over a week? I don't know. But what I do know is that my body and mind were telling me to slow down. Yes, I felt so tired after those road trips/travels, especially if I have chronic lower back problems and other medical conditions.)
Somehow, I came to the realization that I was not the only one, after all, who didn't go out with family and/or friends to enjoy/celebrate the Fourth of July. I thought of those who have been sick or ill, like me, in their homes, at the hospital, or in the battlefield. I prayed for them. Likewise, I thought of those who worked that day, holiday, rendering service to others and to our country, keeping us healthy and free, safe and well. Yes, I thought of those who are/have been working to keep America going and moving forward.I realized how blessed we all are, as one nation; how great we are a free nation, despite the insurmountable crises/problems we're facing, i.e., economic downturn, rising cost of fuel and food, housing slump/foreclosures, severe weather, fire, flood, etc.
I do believe that I was destined to be home alone on Independence Day. No pun intended, though. No, I didn't watch that Macaulay Caulkin's movie "Home Alone" nor Will Smith's "Independence Day." Anyhow, I celebrated the Fourth watching The Capitol Fourth on PBS and partly that Macy's 4th Of July Fireworks Spectacular on NBC, on our television set at home...alone. One thing worth-mentioning, though, was that I saw the manifestation of greatness of our freedom in all those performances. I did enjoy, in all humility and honesty, the holiday celebration despite my unpleasant condition, and the thunderstorm outside. (I wonder if the weather that day/night commiserated with me?)
There you go, folks, my detailed recollection of my Fourth of July "home alone" celebration, three years ago. This year, my family and I are well, thanks to God. Yes, we're all together having a simple celebration or observance of Independence Day. A simple luncheon/dinner, (consisting of baked pork chop and beef steak, baked milkfish, pizza, and steamed rice, and "pinakbet" prepared by my wife Freny), with a short prayer of thanksgiving. And, surely, we'll watch the concert celebration, on our TV sets, when it's time for the display of fireworks in designated areas.That's all, folks. Again, Happy Fourth to all! May God bless us all, and May God bless America!
As the United States of America celebrates her Independence Day (from Britain), 235 years ago today, I remember vividly what happened to me on July 4th, three years ago...
My wife and our college-bound daughter were at our friend's house attending the Fourth of July party. My young adult son was picked up by one of his college friends to go to their friend's house in the Peninsula to watch fireworks. My sister-in-law, who flew all the way from Hawaii to attend my daughter's high school graduation in late May, and has been with us since, was picked up by our "comadre" and "compadre" from Chesapeake a day before the Fourth to spend a week with them. (That's what comadre and compadre said.) So that all members of the family household was out on the Fourth of July. Except me!
You bet, I was home alone on Independence Day, while everybody was out there with their family and friends celebrating July Fourth. I never anticipated/expected to be home alone, watching fellow Americans partying, picnicking, enjoying, and having fun outside. Via our television set, that is. What happened, you ask? Well, it's not that I wanted to be home alone.Nope, I'm not that antisocial. On the contrary, I consider myself a people person, you know. C'mon, folks, who wants to be home alone, left out when there's this Big Party nationwide, out there, where everybody is proud to share his/her freedom and liberty, and patriotism, and bountiful blessings (received and enjoyed) to everyone, strange or familiar, small or tall, rich or poor?
I didn't have a choice but to stay home alone. I know, it's not fun. Not cool, either. But, I have to be home alone, though. I have to stay home for a reason. Or a couple of reasons, maybe. But why, you ask? Dare or not to ask, I tell you anyway.
I've been sick before and after the holiday. Frankly speaking, I'm still in the recuperating mode/mood? No, please, I don't need your sympathy (or empathy?). It just happened that I got sick with this unseasonal, or unseasonable, flu syndrome and acute sinusitis infection. Thanks to God that I, along with my wife, went to the hospital two days before the Fourth and was given antibiotic and other medications. But, man, I tell you. It's no joke to be sick, or kinda bedridden, especially if it's summertime. I don't like it! I hate being sick, especially on a national holiday such as the Fourth of July. Who would dare miss that feeling/experience of camaraderie, watching the display of spectacular fireworks live with family and friends? I missed having fun, being out there under the morning sun, doing my routine, walking, stretching out, and doing my physical conditioning. I tell you, how I love to be outdoor, close to Nature, appreciating the beauty and wonder of God's creation. Be it on the way, in the parking lot, at the grocery store or chain store, I love to meet people from all walks of life, young and old, black or white, yellow or brown, talking with/to them and sharing with them my thoughts and ideas. That's just me. That's my nature, matter-of-fact. If you aren't convinced, why don't you ask my wife or my children to find out. They'll quick to tell you about me, you know. I'm not kidding nor trying to brag or boast. As I've been telling to others, what you see (in me), is what you get. Plain and simple.
Anyway, I don't regret having been ill or sick, or not feeling good/well before and after the Fourth. In fact, I take it as a blessing. I do believe that it was God's will. I really do. Truly, I didn't have ill feelings. On the other hand, I thanked God for the opportunity to be home alone, on the Fourth, resting and trying to regain strength and health. As we all know, our body is like a machine and, constantly, it needs maintenance, check up, and repair. Just as we need relaxation and fun and entertainment, we also need rest and long hours of wholesome sleep for our body to recover. Yes, we need time to replenish our energy, especially if we're constantly on the go always. (I remember those early summer breaks my family and I have had in June. We went to western part of Virginia, to Farmville, to Natural Bridge, to Charlottesville, and spent a couple of days/nights in those historical places of interests.We had a lot of fun, notwithstanding meeting new friends and learning something more about those places we visited. Probably, it's exhaustion or fatigue, or that smoke from that Great Dismal Swamp fire that lasted for over a week? I don't know. But what I do know is that my body and mind were telling me to slow down. Yes, I felt so tired after those road trips/travels, especially if I have chronic lower back problems and other medical conditions.)
Somehow, I came to the realization that I was not the only one, after all, who didn't go out with family and/or friends to enjoy/celebrate the Fourth of July. I thought of those who have been sick or ill, like me, in their homes, at the hospital, or in the battlefield. I prayed for them. Likewise, I thought of those who worked that day, holiday, rendering service to others and to our country, keeping us healthy and free, safe and well. Yes, I thought of those who are/have been working to keep America going and moving forward.I realized how blessed we all are, as one nation; how great we are a free nation, despite the insurmountable crises/problems we're facing, i.e., economic downturn, rising cost of fuel and food, housing slump/foreclosures, severe weather, fire, flood, etc.
I do believe that I was destined to be home alone on Independence Day. No pun intended, though. No, I didn't watch that Macaulay Caulkin's movie "Home Alone" nor Will Smith's "Independence Day." Anyhow, I celebrated the Fourth watching The Capitol Fourth on PBS and partly that Macy's 4th Of July Fireworks Spectacular on NBC, on our television set at home...alone. One thing worth-mentioning, though, was that I saw the manifestation of greatness of our freedom in all those performances. I did enjoy, in all humility and honesty, the holiday celebration despite my unpleasant condition, and the thunderstorm outside. (I wonder if the weather that day/night commiserated with me?)
There you go, folks, my detailed recollection of my Fourth of July "home alone" celebration, three years ago. This year, my family and I are well, thanks to God. Yes, we're all together having a simple celebration or observance of Independence Day. A simple luncheon/dinner, (consisting of baked pork chop and beef steak, baked milkfish, pizza, and steamed rice, and "pinakbet" prepared by my wife Freny), with a short prayer of thanksgiving. And, surely, we'll watch the concert celebration, on our TV sets, when it's time for the display of fireworks in designated areas.That's all, folks. Again, Happy Fourth to all! May God bless us all, and May God bless America!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
On the Fourth of July
Since July 4th, this year, falls on Monday, it is definitely a three-day holiday weekend here in the United States. That means that many residents or American travelers/vacationers are on the road again. Yes, they're on their way to their summer destinations, either to join in the celebration with their families and/or friends in other cities or states, or to spend their summer getaways somewhere. To others, they may have already made hotel reservations, in advance, especially to those areas near the beach or oceanfront. I won't doubt at all if the rows of hotels and resorts at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront or at Nags Head in North Carolina are already fully booked up. Apparently, people love the waters so much especially now that it's summertime! Believe me, you'll be amazed to see the city parks and beaches filled with beachgoers, visitors, guests from other states, and even from other countries, again.
The entire nation celebrates with pride and patriotism the 235th U.S. Independence Day. As expected, the Stars and Stripes, or The Old Glory, with its distinct colors of red, white, and blue, is proudly displayed everywhere. Outdoor festivals and festivities, programs, parades, and/or concerts are held to celebrate the greatness and independence of America, the Land of the Free, and to commemorate the bravery and the patriotism of the men and women in uniform who sacrificed their lives fighting for and preserving our freedom and liberty we now cherish and enjoy.
Lately, while perusing a volume of Funk & Wagnalls New Encyclopedia, I came across these information: Independence Day, in the U.S., is an annual celebration commemmorating the formal adoption by the Continental Congress of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. Although the signing of the Declaration was not completed until August (the first draft was written by Thomas Jefferson, who later became the third president of the United States of America), the Fourth of July holiday has been accepted as the official anniversary of the U.S. Independence (from Britain) and is celebrated in all states and territories of the United States, including Guam and Puerto Rico.
Furthermore, the holiday was first observed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 8, 1776, at which time the Declaration of Independence was read aloud, city bells rang, and band played. It was not declared a holiday, however, until 1941. The Fourth is traditionally celebrated publicly with parades and pageants, patriotic speeches, and organized firing of guns and cannons, and displays o f fireworks. Early in the 20th century, public concern for a "safe and sane" holiday resulted in restrictions on the general use of fireworks. family picnics and outings are a feature of private Fourth of July celebrations.
Therefore, as we celebrate America's Independence Day, let's pause for a few moment and pray for, and give thanks to our valiant veterans, dead or alive, for our freedom and liberty we now enjoy. Amidst the funfare, and holiday festivities, let's observe safety and vigilance, folks. Happy Fourth, everyone!
The entire nation celebrates with pride and patriotism the 235th U.S. Independence Day. As expected, the Stars and Stripes, or The Old Glory, with its distinct colors of red, white, and blue, is proudly displayed everywhere. Outdoor festivals and festivities, programs, parades, and/or concerts are held to celebrate the greatness and independence of America, the Land of the Free, and to commemorate the bravery and the patriotism of the men and women in uniform who sacrificed their lives fighting for and preserving our freedom and liberty we now cherish and enjoy.
Lately, while perusing a volume of Funk & Wagnalls New Encyclopedia, I came across these information: Independence Day, in the U.S., is an annual celebration commemmorating the formal adoption by the Continental Congress of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. Although the signing of the Declaration was not completed until August (the first draft was written by Thomas Jefferson, who later became the third president of the United States of America), the Fourth of July holiday has been accepted as the official anniversary of the U.S. Independence (from Britain) and is celebrated in all states and territories of the United States, including Guam and Puerto Rico.
Furthermore, the holiday was first observed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 8, 1776, at which time the Declaration of Independence was read aloud, city bells rang, and band played. It was not declared a holiday, however, until 1941. The Fourth is traditionally celebrated publicly with parades and pageants, patriotic speeches, and organized firing of guns and cannons, and displays o f fireworks. Early in the 20th century, public concern for a "safe and sane" holiday resulted in restrictions on the general use of fireworks. family picnics and outings are a feature of private Fourth of July celebrations.
Therefore, as we celebrate America's Independence Day, let's pause for a few moment and pray for, and give thanks to our valiant veterans, dead or alive, for our freedom and liberty we now enjoy. Amidst the funfare, and holiday festivities, let's observe safety and vigilance, folks. Happy Fourth, everyone!
Fourth of July*
Each year I celebrate my Freedom,
My Independence and Liberty
Cherished and enjoyed by all
My people of different colors
From all corners of the world
Who desire to live with me,
To share with me their hopes,
Their sentiments and frustrations,
Their dreams and aspirations
To make our world a better place,
To let others live and be free,
United and liberated like me---
The United States of America!
With pride and power
Valor and vigilance
I celebrate my birthday
With fond memories of my past,
My history that I inherited
From my forebears and forefathers;
The history that I wrought
For all my generations to keep.
With spectacular fireworks all around
And parade of colors here and there
My Independence reigns everywhere
And I exult with glee and jubilation;
With open arms and loving heart
I welcome all who seek refuge,
Who long for peace and brotherhood
Offering each and everyone my Freedom,
Justice, Liberty, and Equality,
Power, Prosperity, and Security,
Pride, Beauty, and Democracy;
Wishing all a fair and equal share
Of all my blessings from Above!
Today is such a special day
To commemorate my Independence;
A day of unity and victory,
A day of remembering our men and women
Who have sacrificed their lives
From wars fought and won,
From crises overcame and resolved;
A day of sincere thanksgiving
To those who served and are serving me,
Protecting me and others' lives,
Keeping me strong and always ready
To watch and lead our world!
copyright 2011 by chris alibin quilpa
*Appeared in Sandpointer, a newsletter publication of then Naval Station Puget Sound, Seattle, WA, July 1991. The above poem was registered in The United States Copyright Office, The Library of Congress, Dec. 23, 1997.
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