Must Watch: Jiro Dreams of Sushi

A great friend of mine recommended this documentary called “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.” Personally, I love watching documentaries because they tell significant stories out of normal everyday life. Plus, I was drawn to watching this film because it’s about an 85-year old Michelin-star sushi master in his quest to perfect the art of sushi. There’s something about watching artisans or masters of their own craft that thrills me. Will there also come a time that I will be a master of my own craft and set a high standard internationally?

“Once you decide on your occupation, you must immerse yourself in your work. You have to fall in love with your work. Never complain about your job. You must dedicate your life to mastering your skill. That’s the secret of success and is the key to being regarded honorably.”   -- Jiro Ono, Master Sushi Chef

These words move me during the first part of the film. I have always wondered what road to take in my life and what particular field I really want to be good on. But for Master Jiro, he sets an example for everyone as he has mastered a particular field on which he has dedicated his entire life. That is a life full of meaning and well lived.

Even if Jiro’s skills are unparalleled by anyone else, he thinks that he hasn’t perfected anything yet. He keeps on improving and relentlessly works hard every single day. The film shows clips on the perfectionist process of Jiro’s sushi making. You’ll be amazed at the finesse and grace of Jiro and his apprentices in serving sushi that is considered to be the best in the world.

“Always look beyond and above yourself. Always try to improve on yourself. Always strive to elevate your craft. “ – Jiro’s words to his son, Yoshikazu

Master Jiro, you have made an impact on me just by watching you in this documentary. You have made me realize that working on my craft is not just about the money, but also in the continuous improvement of my skills, which will make a difference in this world. Kudos!

Thoughts on World Famous Artists

Artist photos courtesy of Famous101.com

I grew up knowing that art is going to be a significant part of my life. Among the family, I was the one who showed an inclination to art and a great interest to the lives of artists. Learning more about famous artists thrills me, as this list of Famous Artists and Their Works shows the top ten artists that have inspired generations including myself.

First among the list of world famous artists is no other than the great Pablo Picasso. He is known for his cubist style of painting and his controversial life as an artist. Perhaps, it is inherent in artists to have heated love affairs, and Picasso upholds that distinction. Life is never boring for a passionate and talented artist.

Another one on the list is Leonardo da Vinci. His status as one of the greatest artists and inventors who ever lived cannot be overemphasized. No one has ever reached his level of talent and accomplishments in history, and up to this day his works continue to be one of the best highlights in museums. I always wonder what it would be like to be one of his apprentices, if ever I go back in time. How fruitful our conversations would be if ever he lives today. Moreover, how great his achievements would be if he lives today and uses the tools that technology already makes available.

One of the most intriguing artists on the list is Vincent Van Gogh. His colorful life resounds all throughout the years after his death. His paintings now sell for millions in upscale galleries all over the world. The reason for this is perhaps the dramatic artist’s life behind the artworks. His life gives us an important lesson to live by – that no matter how dark and painful one’s life is, there is still a chance for it to grow into something beautiful. Van Gogh may have not been happy most of his life, but he has touched the lives of others through his story and his works.

Another artist I most admire is Salvador Dali. Whenever I look at his paintings, it makes me stare at it for the longest of time trying to decipher the enigmatic stories behind it. It is said that his paintings often depict his dreams and he inspired me to tap into my dreams for art inspiration. He is also one very prolific artist, as he is known to create five paintings every week.

Other world famous artists that inspire me include Claude Monet, Pierre Auguste Renoir and Henry Matisse. I’m dying to go to Europe just to see the works of these artists in museums and be taken into a sightseeing journey to masterful creations. Italian artists such as Caravaggio and Raphael also makes me want to go to Italy myself and get a full immersion to how beautiful the work of their hands are.

Last but not the least on the list is Andy Warhol, a famous American artist that created a great shift in the art movement during the turn of the century. His achievements inspire me to create my own movement as well, no matter how big or small it is. There are so many instances that other artists copy his style, which just shows how influential he is.

 The lives and works of these world famous artists teach us that art is not just about paintings, but it is a lifestyle to live up to and a legacy to leave to the world. I also wonder if I'll ever come to a certain point wherein I'll achieve the same status as they do, or will I be my own great artist in my own right. It’s never too late to create art and touch the lives of others through it. 

Creative Adventures with a MacBook Pro

I have been a MacBook Pro user for more than a year now and I could say that I couldn’t live without it anymore. It is now an extension of my creative endeavors and myself. When I first wake up in the morning, it’s the first thing that I turn on and it is also the last thing that I use before I go to sleep. It is the very essential thing that makes me succeed in my work, studies, and other day-to-day activities. Yes, it makes my world go round.

So what makes a MacBook Pro a great tool for my creative adventures? Here are the top five things that I shall share with you as a testimony to its awesome functionality:

1. I can work and play on the go

I bring my Mac wherever I go – whether it is at a coffee shop or a seminar. I can work on my documents, open lots of tabs on my browser, edit pictures on Photoshop, and play music without compromising speed. I can even play Sims 3 without suffering lag time. I can also watch movies on it for hours without it getting cranky. With its long battery life, I can work and have fun with it as much as I want even without an electrical outlet nearby.

2. It has the best user-friendly features

Before I got a Mac, I was using a Windows-based laptop for years. But when I eventually moved on to becoming a Mac user, it was a smooth process that involves learning along the way. What I really like about it is its touch pad that allows you to move from one function to the next with great ease.

The MacBook Pro was designed in a way that is simple enough for users. It’s also made with great style without compromising functionality.

3. It is my work-efficient buddy

I cannot emphasize enough what a great tool a MacBook Pro is to creative professionals. This is a heavy duty, mobile workhorse that does wonders to your various projects. Editing photos, creating videos, preparing presentations, and making music can be done with great finesse. And it is all possible with a Mac.

As a workaholic, I can work on a lot of documents for long, long hours without my Mac slowing down. For so many times, my MacBook Pro has saved the day when it helped me finish projects to the last minute.

4. It is part of my social media arsenal

I’m an avid blogger and it takes a lot of work to edit and upload photos, draft and publish content, plus open a lot of tabs on my browser to promote my posts. With a MacBook Pro, all of these can be done effectively and efficiently.

5. It opens me to a whole new world of creativity

There’s so much more that I can do with a MacBook Pro that I haven’t explored yet. With the growing number of Mac users online, I have learned from them that I can actually do this and that with computer programs designed specifically for Mac. Apple has indeed designed products that enable people work at their best – whether it is for education, business or any other profession.

I’m very lucky to own a MacBook Pro. It has greatly benefited my life in ways I can’t imagine before owning one. Here’s to more great experiences as a Mac user!

Cine Europa at Cinematheque

 Photo courtesy of Davao City Tourism

Another great series of movie events is happening at Cinematheque this October as they celebrate Cine Europa. They’ll be featuring highly anticipated movies from Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, France, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Finland, Romania, Slovak Republic, Belgium, Denmark, The Netherlands and Norway. In short, you’ll get a full dose of European culture as you watch these movies from October 4 – 21, 2012. All movies have English subtitles.

What’s good about this is that admission is free so you can watch as much as you want without worries. So bring your friends and family with you to enjoy a wonderful series of European movies!

Cinematheque is a premier film venue located along Palma Gil Street beside the Pasalubong Center near People’s Park. If you see a Lino Brocka statue, that’s where the Cinematheque is. 

Dabawenyos Protest Against the Cybercrime Law at Freedom Park

It’s a black Wednesday here in the Philippines as one controversial law takes effect today.

The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, also known as R.A. 10175, is the reason why my country is on a hiatus. It has very vague provisions that endanger freedom of speech and human rights. It also makes you wonder what are the full intentions of the politicians that were behind in passing such bill. Questions such as did they really read the bill properly before signing it were raised.

GMA Network published an article regarding Digital Martial Law: 10 Scary Things About the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and enumerates what are the possible horrors that can be committed when the act takes place. Even the international online community is aware of such law in the article of CBS News on Facebook’s “like” may land Filipinos in Jail. Way to go, Philippines.

Everyone is making a stand, as this is a national issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Here in my hometown in Davao, many have come together to join a Cultural Protest and Candle Lighting Program against the Cybercrime Law at Freedom Park. Students from different universities all over Davao raised protests against R.A. 10175. Keynote speakers from different organizations gave solidarity speeches, which enlightened our understanding on this law and strengthened our conviction against it. Songs were played as part of the cultural protest. The program culminated with a candle-lighting ceremony that symbolizes our hope for a better amendment towards freedom of speech.

While the protesters started the candle-lighting ceremony, a flock of white birds flew above the night sky. I hope this is a sign of good things to come and that our prayers will be answered.

Max’s Restaurant Holds First Blogging Event in Davao

As one of the top dining establishments in the Philippines, Max’s Restaurant invited Davao Bloggers to its First Blogging Event in Abreeza Ayala Mall. I got the chance to reunite with my fellow bloggers from the bootcamp and enjoy great food with them.

The bright and engaging staff served us bottomless iced tea while Bobby Simborio, Corporate Media and PR Manager for Max’s Group of Companies, shared highlights on what’s hot and new on the premier food franchise. They already opened nine branches in the United States, which goes to show that Filipino-born food franchises can indeed get into the international market. They will also open another branch in SM Lanang this coming November 9, 2012. So watch out for that.

  Bobby Simborio, Corporate Media and PR Manager for Max's

As for their menu, they recently offered their Choose Your Own Merienda option for only 95 pesos. This is great news for students and young professionals who are looking for an affordable treat while hanging out in one of the coolest casual dining restaurants.

Max's 4Sharing Meals

To top it all off, they recently introduced Max’s 4Sharing Meals which include the classic Max’s Fried Chicken, a generous serving of either Adobong Baka sa Gata or Beef Caldereta, four glasses of iced tea, and four servings of rice. It’s an affordable treat that is good for three to four people. It’s the perfect bundle meal for families or groups of friends.

I’m proud to note that Max’s Restaurant is truly Filipino and they showcase the best of Pinoy-style meals. More power to Max’s!

Check out their website at www.maxschicken.com

And their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/maxsrestaurant

For deliveries in Davao, call (082) 285 0558. Minimum delivery purchase is 200 pesos.

P.S. I recently created a Food blog which is entitled A Plateful of Happiness. You can read more about my foodie experience on Max’s here.