“My final reducing advice can be summed up in two words: think small. Don’t rummage around in your past–or your family’s past—to find episodes that you think are ‘important’ enough to be worthy of including in your memoir. Look for small self-contained incidents that are still vivid in your memory. If you still remember them it’s because they contain a universal truth that your readers will recognize from their own life,” Theo (Dr. Garneau’s preference) said as he read the excerpts from our reading assignment that the great William Zinsser wrote.

The loves that makes me whole.

What is still vivid in my mind, is seeing my dad at the side of the bed, brushing a peck to wake my up my mom, for the breakfast he prepares every morning. “First lady, breakfast is ready…,” as he kisses her on the forehead.

For 12 years, (my age when he passed away), in every morning of our lives, that’s what my father reminded me of the most-To love deeply, with no slightest fear, and fight for all the people, and things that you care about. And be passionate in doing it.

My parents love for one another has a huge impact in all facets of my life.

My father taught me to read books passionately, commit to learning (go for masters, PhDs, or other degrees as much you can), and make a difference in the lives of the people I come across with, most especially, the less privileged (as a lawyer, he represented all his low-income clients for free).

But among all the greatest things I have learned from him, it is to love deeply, that I truly cherish the most. For it puts all things in places, when you love and give your all.

LOVE CONQUERS ALL

A love that blossoms in spring.

My dad represented my mom, in a criminal proceeding, after she defended herself from an abusive relationship.

After winning the trial, they got married. And my father adopted my two half-brothers, and named them his own.

Because of their wide age gap, a lot of people, some are even relatives, made their stupid assumptions that their love won’t survive. And that if my dad dies, “guarantee,” they (nosy folks) said, she is going to marry anew.

Well, they’re wrong! For my mom never did. She was 45, when my father died. But my mom, didn’t even went to a single date, not once, and I am so proud of her.

But I am glad, my father did not listened to all those “bugs”. And you might be wondering why I tagged them bugs, but that’s what they are to me. In all it’s meanings, they are all bugs to me.

And they should be thankful, I was still young that time, that I just follow my mom, to just let it go,

With all those storms, and dangerous people, my parents survived it all.

My mom never left my dad side, for the whole one-month of being bedridden before his passing, my mom stood by him, holding his hand. Be they were awake or a sleep, my mom did not let go of his hand. And there’s a rosary in between those hands, for she never wants to give him up. I really admire her courage.

That’s what they reminded me of-A love so true that blossoms in spring, flourishes in summer, and keeps growing flowers in winter. And it is the love that makes me whole.

Looking naughty,
Hoppin’ clumsy,
I wondered what makes Bee
Always up and very happy

Hoppin’, smilin’
Crazy laughin’
Looks like, Bee is weedin’.

So one day I asked him
“Hey, Bee, are you weeding?”
But he just grinned,
And left me wondering.

Secretly,
I sneaked on buddy Bee,
I really had to do it quietly.

And guess, what I see?
Oh, my goodness!
Bee keeps poking something.

Geez,
No wonder, why he always screams “Yippee!”
For Bumble Bee, is too busy,
Just pollenating and making babies.

And now, although,
I am again, all alone,
But for love, I know,
We truly did it all!

In matters of fair and honest journalism, I approve to post the comment below:

Joel Espino commented on <strong HAWAII FAILS TO DELIVER ITS MISSION:

“Not sure why you bother to wrote about the topic but my advice for you Ms Baliba is to keep your mouth shut and just don’t expect for something to get better just because you cannot stop whinging. Just because a food chain opened its doors in another country doesn’t mean that it will have the exact same taste where it originated from. You obviously have no idea how difficult is the extent of opening a new food chain in a foreign contry. Hawaii will not have the same supplier as the Philippines, they have to make sure that food suppliers will deliver and be able to supply what was demanded. Your an idiot obviously, having no idea what you are talking about. You should take responsiblity and do not blame if servie is lame or slow. If im not happy with the service in a certain place, I walk out, I never bother to write about it, customers have their own minds and tongue, and if they do not like what the taste is or if the service sucks, this will reflect on the amount of customers that Jollibee will be having in the future. I really hate it when people complaints about the queue time but still waits there being misearble. My advise to you is: Go get a life. “Kung ayaw mo.wag mo”"

***

I am not wondering how a sore loser struggles, crawls, and suffer in vain of extreme agony to accept the repercussions of his own BONEHEADEDNESS. What a pity really! But I understand.

For who wouldn’t be mad and furious to a writer, whose honest evaluation caused one’s business of a fast-food chain turned into a dumpster? And, what’s worse, a dumpster that not even flies would dare to fly? Go figure.

***
My stepfather-in-law, Jerry just said this morning, during our breakfast that “Oh you know what? That Filipino (because he is a local with Okinawan ancestry) place you investigated, before yeah, lots of line, yeah, now no more! The foods suck that’s why, yeah?” And I just smiled to acknowledge.

Last month, few days before Christmas, my mother-in-law, Felipa and I went to meet my Aunty Generosa at Ala Moana to work on Mama’s retirement.

After 3 hours of going around Honolulu, Ma and I decided to treat Aunty at Jollibee Ala Moana.

So I said, “Aunty, let’s eat, coz I haven’t had my lunch and breakfast yet, when we went to pick you up and I am really, really starving. Let’s go try it! Please!” As I begged her. But Aunty Generosa’s answer was “No, balasan ko (which means my dear lady in Ilokano, a dialect in the Philippines used by most people from the northern provinces), ayaw ko! (I don’t like to!)”

Furthermore, Aunty said “My daughter in law and son, just brought me there. Naku balasan ko, hindi mo talaga magugustuhan!” She further stressed out, which means “You won’t really like it!”

***
Among all the negative attitudes in life, it is PREJUDICE that I hate the most! And this is why I base my evaluations on facts that resulted from my extensive, diligent researches, and supported by credible documentations, which made me earn straight “A”s from all of my writing and English classes.

I did researched so hard, and went through all the painstaking documentations to back up my story and claims of FACTS. And none of any of my reviews sighted below on Jollibee Hawaii was written out of mere PERCEPTIONS. Otherwise, I could have flunk my course. Thank goodness I earned an A! And folks, I guess, that rest my case!
***

So please, allow me to share my original evaluation essay below. It was required in academia, and graded A by an English professor. So, here goes:

JOLLIBEE HAWAII FAILS TO DELIVER ITS MISSION!

By Sabiniana Balagtas Baliba

05/27/2011

Jollibee, the Philippines’ No.1 fastfood chain, finally opened on December 14, 2010, its first Hawaii outlet. This company had enjoyed a non-stop phenomenal success, since it opened for business in 1975. Now on its 35th year, Jollibee has 703 stores all over the Philippines, with branches in 20 more other countries, and in the United States: 22 in California, 2 in Nevada, 1 each in Washington and New York. Their mission is “To serve great tasting food, bringing the joy of eating to everyone.” And its vision is: “We are the best tasting QSR…The most endearing brand…that has ever been…We will lead in product taste at all times…We will provide FSC excellence in every encounter…Happiness in every moment…By year 2020, with over 4,000 stores worldwide, Jollibee is truly a GLOBAL BRAND, and the Filipino will be admired worldwide.” However, both these statements would be meaningless, if all Jollibee outlets will do way beyond what they committed to deliver.

That two highly significant statements of Jollibee has caused this fast food chain not only a powerful impression, but also high expectations from all its patrons around globe. And unfortunately, Jollibee Hawaii failed to deliver that mission of serving great tasting food that could really bring the joy of eating to everyone for the following reasons: Foods were missing the authentic Filipino taste, just how those foods originally tasted back home, in the Philippines. What’s worse, customers have to bear the long wait from placing their order to serving, or having the foods on their table. And last, but not the least, the availabilities of all-time favorites like Champ (an upscale, quarter pounder burger), “Lumpiang Shanghai” (pork egg roll), Jolly Hotdog (a hotdog sandwich), Macaroni Soup and the Breakfast Joys (that can truly brighten someone’s morning); breakfast items consisting of fried rice, egg, “langgonisa” (pork link), or “tocino” (sweetened pork) and “tapa” (a Spanish inspired marinated beef) were missing. Those menu items were big hits in Manila; moreover, those are all time-favorites that make Jollibee distinctive to its competitors. For an avid patron like me, that was really disappointing.

I’m a big fan of Jollibee way back on the 80s, during my childhood days in the Philippines, when my Mom always treat us for a Chicken Joy (fried chicken) after a Sunday Mass. So when I migrated here in 2006, having at least one Jollibee in Honolulu had always been my dream. There were even days I craved and drooled for Champ (a quarter-pounder, upscale burger), Chicken Joy and Spaghetti Fiesta (sweet flavored spaghetti). The opening of the first Hawaii outlet of “Langhap-Sarap” (which means savory delicious in Filipino, and the famous slogan of Jollibee) seemed like an answered prayer for me. They opened strategically in the heart of Waipahu Shopping Plaza, and as expected, thousands and thousands of the Pinoy (Filipino) community went to check-out the place and had a taste of home (Manila).

To avoid the rush, my family and I visited the outlet on Saturday of January 22, 2011. But to our surprise, there were still long lines. We waited an hour to get to the counter and another 15 minutes to have our food on the table. I was so starved. While in line, we browsed on the big menu on top the counter and so with the little ones handed out by a young Filipina. I was dismayed not to see my favorites like Champ, Lumpiang Shanghai, Jolly Hotdog, and the ice cream sundaes not on the menus.

The Chicken Joy wasn’t as good as it was in the Philippines. It wasn’t as fresh, juicy and crunchy as it was famous for, and so with the french fries that tasted really old. The spaghetti was a little different too, although it has the sweet flavor, the garnishing wasn’t the same as the original Spaghetti Fiesta. The “Palabok” (angel hair noodles, topped with rich fish sauce, garnished with green onions, egg and pork cubes) came out too watery; the sauce wasn’t thick as it should be.

I had to convince myself for another visit, just to check if there was some progress in the promptness of the service and improvements on the quality of foods, but unfortunately there wasn’t any. I also spoke to families and friends who have gone to the place, just to check their comments with mine, and everyone agreed that the waiting time was unbearable, and the foods tasted different from how they tasted in Manila.

There were few good things though that I was pleased with Jollibee Waipahu. First, was the job creation. A total of 150 jobs were created from opening the business in the State of Hawaii. Second, was the neatness of the service crews; everyone was in proper uniform, with matching hair nets and name plates; they were all looking good and tidy. And they were all courteous. The gravy was good as always. There were add-ons like mashed potatoes and the pearl coolers, which were not available in the Philippines. In addition, most of the servings were huge compared to the ones in Manila. Last but not the least, the presence of the bus boys that kept tables clean and ready for the next customers. But all of these would be meaningless if the company’s mission and vision statement aren’t met.

The mission and vision statements of Jollibee served as their overall organization’s pledge of commitment to the Filipino people. Therefore, all outlets, be local or international have to live up fulfilling both statements. It should even strive to do more if possible, but there’s no way that they should allow themselves to do business less than what they promised. All outlets should uphold that legacy of bringing and warmly serving all the authentic “langhap-sarap” goodness that enabled them to endear our hearts, and made them successful all these years. For that’s the best way that Jollibee could give back and thank us, and all of our “kababayans” (fellow countrymen) all over the world for our priceless patronage and loyalty.

In conclusion, Jollibee Hawaii indeed failed to deliver its mission of serving great tasting food that could bring joy in eating. Because how can there be joy if the foods taste aren’t so great and different from what we, faithful patronizers have been accustomed to? How can there be joy if paying customers suffers from long hours of standing and waiting just to get to the counter, and only to get junky foods in the end? How can there be joy if we look at the menu and our favorites aren’t there? Well, I hope Jollibee Hawaill will fix all these careless lapses. It’s very doable, and of course, the sooner, the better. I truly hope it shapes up and give our money’s worth.

08/09/2011

As of this writing, Jollibee Hawaii now serving breakfast meals, and lumpiang shanghai (pork egg roll). But there’s still waiting time and it’s unbearable, despite over staffing of service crews. And the quality of foods compared to the ones in the Philippines, is not even close, very disappointing. I wonder, if anyone from the main office monitors the production of foods that are being served in all international outlets. Because even if is mostly franchise owners running the outlets, from my knowledge, there are policies or standards on the quality of foods that all outlets should adhere to uphold its reputation. I really hope that they do have a department that monitors the quality of food being serve in all international outlets. If none, they should really consider. For Jollibee is more than a fast food chain for us Filipinos. It is a part of our culture, part of every Filipino kid’s childhood, and the flag bearer of the Philippines in the fast food industry.

11/27/2011

Today, I just received a comment in response to this blog from a certain “Jollibee Kid.” And in matters of fairness, I would like to share it to all of you. Also, I want to give those folks a chance to explain their side. The comments stated as follow:

Fortunately, Jollibee Hawaii has overly succeeded to deliver that mission of serving great tasting food that could really bring the joy of eating to everyone for the following reasons: Foods have the authentic Filipino taste, just how those foods originally tasted back home, in the Philippines, they may not be perfect because no one food establishment is perfect to the tee but they definitely do try their best and their best should be good enough especially when targeting a mainland customer base delivering unique Filipino American flavor to the USA. What’s best, customers do not have to bear too much long waits from placing their order to serving, or having the foods on their table. They have you take a number and serve you promptly if they do not have it right away. And last, but not the least, the availabilities of all-time favorites like Champ (an upscale, quarter pounder burger), “Lumpiang Shanghai” (pork egg roll), Jolly Hotdog (a hotdog sandwich), Macaroni Soup and the Breakfast Joys (that can truly brighten someone’s morning); breakfast items consisting of fried rice, egg, “langgonisa” (pork link), or “tocino” (sweetened pork) and “tapa” (a Spanish inspired marinated beef) are slowly but surely emerging from their menu. Jollibee is truly growing and expanding in Hawaii/USA and now they have one in Ala Moana!

A piece of advice: I used dates to back up my story, reflected by receipts. So please, don’t you dare taint my credibility, because I would never allow you to! Stop washing your hands, and just admit you are at fault. And have the courage to say sorry instead, and shape up. For those are all that you can do to redeem yourself.

But if accepting your mistakes is something so hard for you to do, then don’t. But at least, learn to accept constructive criticism, for only in that way you can correct your lapses and improve yourself. And if you don’t recognize and acknowledge your mistakes, you are not only adding insult to an injury, but, likewise, making your own recipe for disaster.

And by the way, LEARN HOW TO WRITE IN YOUR OWN WORDS! And STOP COPYING (especially in verbatim) other people’s writings. For PLAGIARIZING IS STEALING. So please, HAVE SOME DECENCY at least!

Having that kind of junky attitude proves that YOU ARE NOTHING, BUT A SORE LOSER, bound to nowhere, but to fall and fail! So good luck!

I watched the movie Julie and Julia. And after watching, I really came to like Julia Child, the great American cook who introduced the elegant and very sophisticated way of French cooking here in the United States during and after World War II.

But I don’t like the writer, Julie Powell. And since my mother taught me and my sisters that if we have nothing better to say, we rather not utter a word about it, so I am not going to elaborate any further of why I don’t like her.

But that movie inspired me to blog and write more. Although I love cooking too, I realized that writing is my greatest passion in life. And more than anything else, I want to be remembered as a writer (and as a mother too).

So as Julie Powell was inspired to cook in 365 days the 524 French recipes of Julia Child, she (Julie) inspired me to write and blog everyday, in 366 days of this year, 2012.

I also commit to write something beyond the ordinary. And I intend to concentrate more on writing, along with anything that could make a difference, and that will inspire us all.

I already wrote a few, but definitely it hasn’t reach 18 yet. And if I want to make my blogging as current as the current date, I really have some catching up to do.

But, here’s what I can promise to all of you: I won’t let 2012 go without me completing the 366 blogs I committed to write. And I would like to ask all of you, my dear readers, to please help me accomplish something meaningful here, something worthwhile, educational, or at least informative for all of us.

I encourage you to comment for any typos or grammatical errors you see in my blogs. I will respond and acknowledge and do all your suggestions as much as possible. But of course, I hope and I will try my very best not to have any, because typo errors are one of my weaknesses in writing, and I don’t want you to feel that you are not important to me, just because of a typo error.

But please understand, that blogging is quite different from other forms of writing. Although, we bloggers have an enormous opportunity to be read, and enjoy the advantage being in the world wide web, we write on our own. We do not have editors with us; also, we do not have proof readers to catch all the tiniest details that could make a flawless article.

So please help me! Check my work, critique my work. And I would adhere your suggestions as much as I can. Your participation and interaction would be greatly appreciated.

Along with the errors, please feel free to suggest anything that could make my blog better. Because I want it to be meaningful, not just to me, but to all of you as well.

You may also email me at ss34@hawaii.edu for any and all of your suggestions. Or if you want me to blog on something or anything, please let me know. I will be more happy to serve you. Actually, for you to find time reading my blog, is already a privilege for me.

So folks, please join me in this wonderful journey. Join me in my 366 days of writing! And Aloha to you all!

A seemingly never-ending thug of political power had been the reason behind those pathetic acts.
Although I believe in retribution, I just find it so annoying and too disgusting that all those government officials, be elected or not, seemed to be ;stuck with greed and obsession to be in and stay in power.

In fact, even if their term is done, they would have everyone in their family run and vie for any race, or be their successor. And such kind of political dynasty is another root of irregularities in Philippine government system.

I don’t sympathize with any Filipino politicians, because the truth is, none of them is really fit (in all it’s meaning) to lead our country. But I do pity the Filipino people, my fellow countrymen who work extremely hard just to feed those beasts; the politicians who are all ill-driven by greed, money, and power. Really, none of them has that genuine concern to uplift the lives of our countrymen.

But still, and despite my frustrations on the kind of politics that Philippines has, I remain proud of my countrymen. For they have endured it all, thrived and still thriving in their own ways to rise themselves in such awful kind of living.

A lot of them, or should I say us, the Overseas Filipino ;Workers ;(OFWs) now work and live in different foreign lands. And because most of us send money every month or in a regular basis to our families and loved ones back home, we generate revenue in U.S. dollars. And that boosts our economy tremendously. It is just that ;those revenues were robbed ;over and over again, and ;always end ;up going to somebody else’s pockets.

But Filipinos in general, who aren’t in the government and politics, we are dedicated ;hard workers. We thrive not just to survive but to excel in anything and everything we do in life.

Weare driven by our deep love for our family; to give them a comfortable life, with a hope that we would be able to pull them out from living in the Philippines. For over there, they are not only exposed to crimes that are out in the streets, but the crime that our government does to our people. And I tell you, it’s very heartbreaking.

The only reason why we couldn’t overcome poverty, is that those people running our country are so corrupt and too greedy. From legislators to the executive officials, even just those clerks in government offices, they are all crooks. Corruptions and anomalies are their ways of life. Those folks doesn’t believe in morality. And hardly does any of them has the slightest integrity. Ironically speaking, they run for public positions (government public elected public officials) not to serve, but to be serve.

They are the ruthless robbers dressed in “barongs” (formal male attire, like that of suite and & tie).

Philippines is so badly infested of dirty politics and crooked government. And I feel sorry. But I do still hope and pray for the best.

And going back to the fate of former Philippine presidents, if someone, or a political party ask me to run (in the future, you never know) for presidency; seriously, I would vehemently say HELL NO! Not only because, I hate associating myself from those nasty Filipino politicians, whose crookedness is worse than a contagious disease, but likewise, I don’t want to end up with the same fate as Mr. Estrada and Mrs. Arroyo. I don’t want to be a president and end my life behind bars. I don’t think anyone would like it. They can keep the presidency to themselves.

And I want to end this writing with a message of hope and enlightenment to my fellow countrymen.
Up to when are we going to allow those disgusting politicians use and abuse us? Corruptions and anomalies can be corrected, if we, as a nation would step up and bravely deal with their crimes of robbing our nation’s fund and hampering our growth and our future for their own gains and benefits.
In my opinion of how the “now” Aquino administration is treating Mrs. Arroyo, yes, our people deserve justice, and that we should let justice takes its course. But it should be the kind of “justice” that isn’t influenced by the ones in throne and in power.

Have your own mind and consciousness of the good and bad, and then exercise your rights every election. Because that’s the only time we can make changes to our lives and to our nation. And we should always, always, always, think of our children, and our children’s children, every time we cast our votes.

The national elections are still far, PNoy has four more years to go. But that is not far enough to ponder and reflect as early as possible; to educate and sharpen our views of what is truly happening in our country. Likewise, not far or long enough, to come up with a rational basis in choosing the sound ideals that we should expect in electing public officials.

Let not wisdom nor intelligence be your sole basis in selecting leaders of our country. Choose the ones who has the heart, the genuine kind of heart of a public servant. Someone who would think about us, our concerns; our needs and welfare.

Please allow me to share this line:

“I want our people to know that they have a President that thinks about them everyday,” and those my countrymen, aren’t President Noynoy ;Aquino’s words to all of us. It was U.S. President Barack Obama’s message last Christmas to the American people.

Oh, how I wish PNoy has that same heart of Pres. Obama. I deeply hope and fervently pray that everything that he and his administration is doing right now, aren’t for their own pleasure’s and gains; for their obsession of power and moneyis based from their utmost concern for the goodness of the country and genuine love to serve the Filipino people.

Last, but not the least, I truly wish PNoy won’t end up in the same fate of Erap and Gloria.

God bless Philippines!

Just like Forrest, we all face challenges in life; crosses that seem to be life-long embedded on our shoulders, that whether we like it or not, we all have to endure and live by. But the ironic difference is, what could be a disaster to me, could be a blessing to you, or vice versa.

Regardless, I always believe that things happen for a reason.

***

Yesterday, January, 4, 2012, I completed 3 major certifications that means a lot to me: my VITA/TCE recertifications for the fiscal year of 2011.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderlies is a yearly public service program by the Internal Revenue Service, and in cooperation with various non-profit organizations across the United States of America.

When I lost my full time job in 2008 (due to a health condition and discrimination), the said financial “catastrophe” led me to the very rewarding field of volunteering. I have been blessed to have worked with various legal non-profit organizations here in Honolulu, like the Hawaii Paralegal Association (HPA), the Hawaii State Bar Association (HSBA), Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii (VLSH), Na Loio, Immigrant Justice Center, and the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii (LASH) on so many pro bono projects. I enjoyed the work, and treasures all of them. But among all, the one that is truly dear to me is preparing taxes.

***

I am marveled by how tax refunds make a difference in the lives of the less privileged: the elders who are eager to earn a little cash to supplement their social security benefits, and the low-income moms and dads who get their biggest paychecks only every tax season; the struggling working students who are most of the time short of cash; even to people with disabilities and the homeless who jump to glee for refunds of about $75 to $85 (from resident and food excise tax credit from the State of Hawaii). Oh boy, those folks make me whole!

And I wish I can tell you how really happy I am in having this privilege to extend something worthwhile to the ones who most need it. But I cannot. For the joy is overwhelming; way beyond and over my whole being. Especially, when I hear from them “Thank you for taking care of my tax last year. The refund really came so handy,” says a single mom with 4 kids. “You know, before you, somebody did my tax and I got audited. I already paid and still I got audited. But when you started doing it, I have been getting refunds and never heard from the IRS anymore,” says a small business owner, a Chinese lady from Maunakea, who brought 3 more friends (all small business owners) with her last year, to see me to get their taxes done.

Another regular client says “Really? $1800? Last year you gave me a refund of $1300, that was my first you know,” the haole lady told me. She is in her 50-ish, professional, single and does not have any dependent. “Oh, thank you! I appreciate that. But you have more refund because of these receipts (of medical expenses),” I explained to her as I struggle to hide my blushing because my supervisor was standing right next to me. “Yeah, you told me to keep them, remember? So I did,” she added. And those are just a few of my most rewarding moments in being a VITA/TCE tax preparer. But there are a lot more.

Some offered cash, which I always declined for obvious reasons. And because I declined, they ended up leaving teas, coffees, chocolates, snacks in the front desk of the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii.

But more than the goodies and the “thank you”, I am monumentally happy that I touched their lives in such a meaningful way, and just as much they have touched mines. And honestly, I have never been this fulfilled in my whole life. So thanks to VITA/TCE!

***

For when it came, I was a living dead- Far from home (Manila); away from my kids and my mom; was forced to abandoned a career (news writing) of more than 2 decades. Jobless, homeless (just staying with my in-laws), hopeless, lifeless, I felt I have no worth.

But God is good. And He is good all the time! For despite all odds, amidst darkness, the silver lining shined on me, and I was saved-VITA did made my day!

I regained my footing, recovered myself from a life-threatening emotional devastation. And what’s even better, is that I am back to school, and doing good in school.

And I know in my heart, that if not for those crisis (unemployment, sickness, and etc), maybe, I wouldn’t be volunteering right now. Perhaps I won’t even be in school too. For if not for those clouds I went through, maybe I won’t be enjoying this most beaming silver lining that gave my life a new meaning.

So thank God for this wonderful life, and to HIM be all the glory!

The Yuletide Season is officially over, and in less than 2 weeks, the Tax Season begins.

I know to some people, filing of income tax return is worse than a memorial day. Because of their anxiety they may have to pay Uncle Sam for whatever difference from their withholding taxes to the amount they supposed to pay the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

I deeply empathize with those folks, because I was once in their shoes for a while. And honestly, during those times, I felt like something ain’t right. I was haunted by the nagging question, as to why there are a lot of people who are making more than I do and have very little withholding, yet they get hefty tax refund every year. The feeling was awful, daunting, and too exhausting. But that frustration led me into a passion to learn tax and prepare taxes for free (only for the less privileged, the elders, and people with disabilities) for the rest of my life (a devotion and pledge to God).

In 2008 to 2011, I have been preparing taxes for free, as VITA/TCE (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, and Tax Counseling for the Elderlies) Tax Preparer for the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii and the IRS. And from then on, I realized that there were so many credits I missed, that could have saved me from being indebted to the IRS.

***

So, it is very important for all of us, taxpayers to know the credits that we could be entitled of. And there are changes or additions on tax laws every year to accommodate new tax credits. And where to find them? The answer is Publication 17.

For the Fiscal Year of 2011, my favorite items on “What’s New” section of the Publication 17 are as follows:

Deadline of filing: The deadline for filing tax return used to be April 15, but since it falls on a Sunday, and the following Monday of April 16 happens to be the holiday of Emancipation Day of the District of Columbia, the deadline to file 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ has been moved to Tuesday, April 17, 2012.

Increased on the standard deduction: Last year, the standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return was $11,400. And $5700 for single individuals and married couples filing separate returns; and, $8400 for heads of household.

The new rates are below:

For married couples filing a joint return is $11,600, which is up by $200;
For single individuals and married couples filing separate returns is $5800, which is up by $100;
And for the head of household it is now at $8500, which is up by $100. For more details on standard deductions, please click on the link below:

http://www.taxpolicycenter.org/taxfacts/content/pdf/individual_rates.pdf

These increases are in effect as mandated by law, to cover the rate of inflation.

Increased on exemption:, from what used to be $3650, it is now $3700.

And if you have a qualifying dependent(s), which could be a qualifying child or relative that has lived with you for more than half of the year, and didn’t made enough money to take care of himself, you then can claim the exemption for that person(s). But take note that he (qualifying dependent) can’t claim his personal exemption, in the event he has to file, or decided to file after meeting the wage threshold as set by the law.

No more Schedule L, which means less paperwork for all of us. The obsolete Schedule L was used to figure your standard deductions.

Health savings account and archer MSAs. For the distributions not used, an increased of 20% is now in effect.

Medical expenses now cover all drugs and medical procedures as prescribed by physicians. And insulins do not require prescription.

But along those good news, there are also changes on tax laws that could be at your disadvantage, that we have to take note of too. And they are as follows:

Roth IRAs. If you converted or rolled over an amount to a Roth IRA in 2010 and did not reported the taxable amount, the IRS requires you to report half of it in your 2011 return, and the rest of it in 2012.

Alternative motor vehicle credit is no longer available, with the sole exemption of a purchase of a new fuel cell motor vehicle.

No More Schedule M. Also known as the stimulus, the Making Work Pay Credit has ended. Therefore, there is no need to attach a Schedule M in your return.

Changes on mailing for paper filers. If you tend to paper file, you would have to check the “Where to File” guide at the IRS website, www.irs.gov, just to make sure that your return would get to the right IRS office.

In conclusion, being ready to file your tax return 2011 means that you know your rights and responsibilities as taxpayer of the United States of America. Also, keep in mind that tax credits are laws enacted to our advantage. Therefore, assert your rights, and fulfill your responsibilities as taxpayers. Keep them both in mind, because that’s the best way to stay out of trouble with the IRS.

And, regardless if you would have to pay, or that the IRS owes you a refund, it is highly recommended that you file, not just to avoid penalties (even charges or lawsuits), but likewise enjoy the tax credits you might be entitled of.

Lastly, please don’t dare to tax evade. Never underestimate what the IRS is capable of. It’s a crime! Perpetrators will be punished to the full extent of law. So don’t even think about it!

If you need help, seek help! And then negotiate. But never tax evade!

***

In need of help? The IRS 1-800-numbers are listed below.

Live Telephone Assistance
When calling, you may ask questions to help you prepare your tax return, or ask about a notice you have received. Please be aware that when you conclude your discussion, our system will not permit you to return to your original responder.

Telephone Assistance for Individuals:
Toll-Free, 1-800-829-1040
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).

Telephone Assistance for Businesses:
Toll-Free, 1-800-829-4933
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).

Telephone Assistance for Exempt Organizations, Retirement Plan Administrators, and Government Entities:
Toll-Free, 1-877-829-5500
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Local Time.

Telephone Assistance for people with hearing impairments:
Toll-Free 1-800-829-4059 (TDD)
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).
For further information, see Tax Topic 102.

Telephone Assistance for Individuals who believe they may be a victim of Identify Theft: No Tax Administration Impact – Did not receive a notice from the IRS. Toll-Free 1-800-908-4490 (Automated and live assistance)
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time). For additional information, refer to our Identity Theft and Your Tax Records page.

Telephone Assistance for people who live outside the United States
Hours of availability vary by location. Please see our International Services page.

Face-to-Face Assistance
In certain areas, IRS also has local offices you may visit to receive assistance.

Disclaimer: The author of this article does not intend to give legal advice. Rather, this is merely dissemination of information, as listed at the IRS portal. For more information, please visit www.irs.gov.

Hello, 2012! And goodbye, 2011!

The New Year looks so promising to me. I don’t know exactly why, but I’m half-Chinese and I grew up with so many traditions and mythical beliefs, like Feng Shui, in which 2011 doesn’t really look so good, as it ended in double one (11),

Based on Feng Shui, a number that is written going up actually signals growth, like numbers 8 and 0. And numbers 1, 3, and 7 signal losses or downfall. And although 2 does not end with a stroke going upward it signals stability. What does this mean to the United States of America and our economy?

During the last months of 2011, jobs started to pick up. In a recent report by the ABC news, a lot of economists have seen improvements not only in employment, but in housing as we’ll. And 2012 could be a great year to improve our finances.

In Chinese astrology, 2012 is the year of the water dragon, the element of Yang. He’s mighty, intelligent, ever courageous, full of life and strength, and highly determined. The dragon is a symbol of wealth and power. So, it is very promising indeed!

***

But in Christianity, it is best to put our brightest hopes only on our faith to God. Of course, none of us would be exempted from problems; stress and the likes. But we should always remember, that there won’t be any issues that can’t be resolved. Although solutions aren’t always in our hands, but guarantee, there are, or there would always be solutions. And as the old saying goes, let’s just do our best and let God take care of the rest!

Stay hopeful! That’s very important! And believe in the limitless possibilities! For Heaven has its magical ways to delight the hearts of the righteous.

We can’t expect that all of us would have halos on top our heads, but we should try our best not to have horns.

When in doubt, in doing things and making decisions, always use your hands to weigh both good and the bad. Then search your heart, and listen to the little voices coming from within, because those are your guardian angels trying to lead you to the righteous path.

***

As for me, this year had been a good one. And thank you God for a wonderful year! I wish I have a glass of champagne to toss, but although I don’t have one, seriously, I am very satisfied with how my 2011 went.

I went back to school from spring to fall, and ended the year with a cumulative GPA of 3.8. But more than the grade, I am actually more thankful in meeting the wonderful people from my professors to my classmates at Kapiolani Community College, of the University of Hawaii.

My school brought me back to life. And it’s now my sanctuary! It used to be the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii (where I do a lot of pro bono works for the less privileged), but now it’s KCC!

And although, I know I have a long way to go in pursuing the degree that I really wanted, but hey! I’m on it, right? I already started it, and finished my 1st year in a pretty decent shape. With 3.8, I don’t think I can go wrong. Thanks to my professors who have given me a lot of hope and encouragement.

I know I shouldn’t stop from here, and I can’t be complacent. Moreover, I know should persevere more. And more means more sleepless nights! Oh yes, dear readers, you heard me right, sleepless nights to do home works, projects, and assignments! Because those are my responsibilities in school. Honestly, when I do those, I don’t look at them as burdens. Hardly were there moments that I felt settled with my efforts, because I always want to give more, and do more! Simply because, this is my dream! I really I have to give my all, because if there is one great decision I made in my 39 years of existence, it is this; my going back to school that means the most to me.

What is sad is that is that there are people who have seen my efforts, and seems close to me, yet doesn’t understand at all why am I giving this much of me into this schooling that I am into. But I guess, one would never be able to understand me, if they don’t know me enough, to know why am I giving this much. I can’t tell things in detail, but please, keep in mind there is reason for everything. And I have my own reasons too.

Anyways, let’s have a deep sigh as we let all bad things go. And let’s welcome 2012 with high hopes!

Personally, I want to welcome the New Year with a deep commitment to excel in school and in all of my endeavors. I know there’d be rocks along the way, but I will remain steadfast and loyal to my dream. And I should not falter, for this is all I have. So I will not! And so help me God!

***

Nonetheless, I wish everybody a happy New Year! And May 2012 bring all of us peace, love and prosperity! God bless everybody! And a very happy New Year to all!

Thank you God for a very wonderful year! And to You be all the glory!

Here’s an excerpt:

A San Francisco cable car holds 60 people. This blog was viewed about 1,200 times in 2011. If it were a cable car, it would take about 20 trips to carry that many people.

Click here to see the complete report.