I
had never heard of Ta Prohm until a friend told me about it earlier
this year. He said it was one of the places I should not miss. So, I
made sure our tuktuk driver would drop us off right after Angkor Wat.
And
true enough, when I got there, I was like, "take all my money!". It was
the best- much, much better than Angkor Wat - as far as my opinion was
concerned. There was something about the marriage between
architecture/or what is left of and nature that sparked my being. It
definitely felt like I was transported somewhere magical.
I tell you. There are a few things more painful than a broken heart. I've been through that sort of tragedy many a times yet still, each time seems more painful than the last. Sometimes, the stabbing hurt on the chest is too much that it feels like I'm dying. But before we go morbid and end up talking about death, why not we tackle on ways to deal with this unfortunate event.
Every girl (or boy) done wrong knows that nothing can get one through this phase better than LASLAS music. The term 'laslas' is Cebuano slang for 'suicide'. Yup, 'suicide' music can - one way or another - save lives, better than bawling-till-eyes-pop-out-of-the-sockets and drinking-like-a-fish sprees. It can also empathize better than people (well, sometimes).
But anyway, before I start telling you stories of my heartaches, let's go through the songs I recommend for the brokenhearted (and for those who share the same taste of music - cough*emo-angst* with me).
Breakeven (The Script)
Believe it or not, I have just recently discovered this song (loser!). I like it that it doesn't have that depressing tune and beat, unlike mostly every hurt song.
LASLAS factor: (I have said these exact words to someone.) "What am I supposed to say when I'm all choked up and you're okay." It's painful to see the love of your life move on gracefully while you're still back in Square One trying to pick up the pieces.
Don't Speak (No Doubt)
But of course, what's a suicide list without No Doubt. This has been my favorite since I was 11.
LASLAS factor: For the people stuck in denial stage. 'kidding! "Don't speak. I know what you're saying. So please stop explaining. Don't tell me 'cause it hurts."
I Go Crazy (DHT)
This song has countless revivals but this one's my favorite.
LASLAS Factor: Your life is finally back on track. And just when you thought you've already moved on after 5 long months, you bump into him/her at your favorite coffee shop. He says 'hi' and you feel you've slipped back to brokenness. Dern.
Because of You (Kelly Clarkson)
This beautiful song was introduced to me by a friend, who - at the time- was going through some unrequited love situation. A few months later, it became my own personal theme song. Haha.
LASLAS Factor: This is the song you sing at the peak of pain. It sums up everything a broken heart is all about.
You Ought to Know (Alanis Morissette)
If you're a fan, you'll agree when I say that Alanis is the Queen of Angst.
LASLAS Factor: This is for those who are in the ANGER stage. If singing - and half-screaming - your furious heart out is your thing, then this one's for you.
The Blower's Daughter (Damien Rice)
I came to know this song from the movie Closer. I was instantly in love with it, despite its sad, sad melody. The lyrics are oh-so-perfect, I.cannot.even.
LASLAS Factor: But anyone can have a different interpretation for this song. Personally, I think it's mainly about the delicate transition phase between holding on and (trying to, at least) letting go.
I will always love you (Whitney Houston)
This is everyone's favorite KTV/Singing Contest pick because of its "birit" styling.
LASLAS Factor: There are things that are just not meant to last, no matter how perfect they seem to be. It also holds true when it comes to love. Sometimes, people break up not because they don't love each other, but because they both know that such relationship will impede their growth as separate individuals and thus, won't work in the future. (speaking in behalf of my past experiences. ahem.)
Come Back to Me (David Cook)
This is send-off song of some sort.
LASLAS Factor: It's bluntly about waiting for someone who might not come back.
Okay, I'm too harsh. The whole problem starts with the lover who begins questioning his/her identity and consequentially needs a timeout to find him/herself alone. So the other lover sets him/her free, with the hope that they will be together again, once the whole identity crisis is solved.
Okay. I suck at explaining things. Haha.
Linger (The Cranberries)
I am seriously thinking of making this my wedding march song because it sounds stellar when played by a string quartet. Haha.
LASLAS Factor: For those in the everything-reminds-me-of-you phase.
Wrecking Ball (Miley Cyrus)
Oh please. Despite the nudity (which I find acceptable and artistic) and the licking, we all love this song.
LASLAS Factor: Though I rarely find impressive poetry nowadays, this song passed my breakup song standards. (Never mind the video.) The song is so emotional and relevant. If this had been composed decades before, it would still be a hit.
Phew. Going through that playlist somehow got my spirits down. Well, that's the whole point of the music. It understands and shares the pain and suffering. However, its role ends there. It should not become a permanent life anthem.
So after the LASLAS period, get up and get some sunshine (and whole new playlist). Time to move on and be happy!
Back in 2002 (when I was still in sophomore year in high school), I used to browse through old travel books about Asia in the school library. One time, I chanced upon an article about Angkor Wat (which was the topic of our homework at the time) and instantly, I was fascinated with its interesting history and unique architecture. Since then, it had been my dream to set foot in that renowned temple.
Last month, another wish was granted. I was able to stroll around the temple grounds and basked in its architectural beauty. Though some areas were closed due to restoration activities, all in all, it was worth eleven year wait and every penny of my travel fund.
Who knew that Asian history homework was some kind of premonition?
I am going to start with a disclaimer. I have never broken up with anyone and never had an ex-someone. Nevertheless, I almost got there and know people who have. I'm also sure that a lot of us can still relate to how it's like to try to get over someone or something we wanted so badly but couldn't have. Unfortunately, the wail-like-a-fool, drown-yourself-in-alcohol-and-sorrow and constant-replay-of-what-did-i-do-wrong are only valid for a short time and will not help us move forward. After all that, the decision to move on or suffer must be made.
And the right decision will always be, to move on. Whether that means forgiving someone then rebuilding your relationship or totally letting go.
But we all know that all I just said are blah because the secret to moving on is listening to Happy Move On music! Of course! That's what I wrote this entry for! Mehehehe.
1. Gonna Get Over You by Sara Bareilles
You can play this over and over again and you get happier by the minute. It's not a bitter song at all.
Fave Line/s: I'm not the girl that I intend to be. But I dare you darlin' just you wait and see but this time not for you just for me.
2. Tonight I'm Getting Over You by Carly Rae Jepsen
Just because I know someone who's been listening to this song during this phase of her life. I love that it's really upbeat.
Fave line/s: We're not lovers but more than friends.
3. Little Black Dress by Sara Bareilles
This is such a beautiful song. It's painful but hopeful.
Fave Line/s: I stand a pretty good chance to dust myself off and dance. I'll get my little black dress on and if i put on my favorite song, I'm gonna dance until you're all gone.
4. I Look So Good Without You by Jessie James
This is definitely for any guy or girl that has been wronged. Especially those with self-esteem issues. It's time to love yourself!
Fave Line/s: I look so good without you. I never thought that I'd be dreaming so much better without you in my head.
5. It's A Beautiful Day by Michael Buble
Now guys, just because a girl only wants you to be her friend and you want more doesn't mean that you can be a jerk to her from now on. Still for the guys who felt really bad, there are still other great people out there.
Fave Line/s: Cause maybe you may not believe that baby I'm relieved.
6. Stronger by Britney
Who doesn't love Britney? I grew up listening to her. And yes, one must not dwell on one's loneliness. Just remember the diva that you are!
Fave Line/s: Stronger than yesterday. now it's nothing but my way. My loneliness ain't killing me no more.
7. Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) by Kelly Clarkson
This is great because it reminds us that whatever we are going through doesn't have to make us bitter forever but stronger and more independent.
Fave Line/s: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stand a little higher. Doesn't mean I'm lonely when i'm alone.
8. Roar by Katy Perry
I love a lot of her songs especially Teenage Dream. Makes you feel unburdened by whatever issues you may have. She has a lot of self-love songs.
Fave Line/s: I got the eye of the tiger, the fire, dancing through the fire. Cause I am a champion and you're gonna hear me roar. Louder, louder than a lion.
9. You're Just Another Picture To Burn by Taylor Swift
Yes I am aware she has a song called We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together but this one I picked because of the teenage vibe. And a young girl's very first realization that yes, a jerk's picture is worth burning then forgetting about.
Fave Line/s: So watch me strike a match on all my wasted time. As far as I'm concerned you're just another picture to burn.
10. I Know We're Cool by Gwen Stefani
Here's for those who actually believe that they can forgive and let bygones be bygones. Wow, that's possible? This reminds me of married couples who divorced amicably and have managed to become good friends.
Fave Line/s: It's good to see you now with someone else. And it's such a miracle that you and me are still good friends. 11. Something About Us by Daft Punk
I just had to add this one. It isn't that happy in a sense but it's a saying goodbye song with a great beat and Ilove it love it love it so this makes the cut.
Fave Line/s: I might not be the right one. It might not be the right time. But there's something about us I've got to do. Some kind of secret I will share with you
Updated Sept 29, 2013 12. Don't Call Me Baby by Kreesha Turner
This song is is really all about that one important word: No. No more drama after this. Goodbye! Besides, who needs men when you've got your girlfriends? Or I guess for guys, who needs women when you have your best buds...or your beer, or dog or sports. You know what I'm saying.
Fave Lines: Nobody hurts like you.
I hope you liked this list. I'm sure there are a lot more happy get over songs out there. Stay happy ;p
Ah, that short weekend of majestic view of Mt. Mayon, of orgasmic (yes, it is!) Bicolano Cuisine and of surprisingly good company. Legazpi City (and a pinch of Sorsogon) was definitely a dream come true.
I swear I'll be back for more of the Bicol experience. Naga City and Caramoan on Summer 2014? Yes na!
Before July ends, here are some photos my sister Astrid took during Canada Day weekend. It's the summer season in this part of the world. We went on a camping trip with other members of a Filipino Cooperative. Naturally, the food was great. It was my very first camping experience which turned out to be more comfortable and enjoyable than I expected it to be (thank you air bed). It was what I would call an interesting Filipino-Canadian experience.
Summer is so lovely. I love how the photographs evoke a certain kind of nostalgia for a much simpler time.
To tell you the truth, this was not the best of Palaui Island. Survivor USA had rented most (meaning, the more popular areas) of the island. My boss, a new friend and I had already checked in a hotel- and were tired from the loooooong and scary (no streetlights along the way) roadtrip - when we found out about this. But anyhow, despite the bad news, we jumped on a boat and still explored the open islands: Snake Island, Nangaramoan Beach (part of Palaui) and Crocodile Island.
The mini-getaway was unexpectedly fun, despite that it was cut short (SURVIVOR had to film in a bit. And the staff had instructed that all tourists should vacate the vicinity a.k.a. Nangaramoan and that there should be no boat activity during the duration of the filming. gah). Yeah, it felt like I missed a lot of the good stuff. I honestly wished there was more places to see, more landmarks to cover and more beautiful pictures to take.
I know in my heart (tsar.) that Palaui Island is worth another visit. I swear I will be back soon, once the reality TV series packs up and leave. :)
