A Storyteller for That Girl

This storyteller is not affiliated to Maine Mendoza in any way. Views and opinions are strictly mine. I'm a writer who dreams and a dreamer who writes. Click "Archive" to read past blog posts. Thank you for visiting this fangirl blog! God bless you! (Twitter: @rj1421 | Background photos: credits to the owners)

[astorytellerforthatgirl]

“Namamagitan talaga ang Diyos” - How these words of my mama reminded me of God’s works in Maine’s life

It’s been a while since I last wrote a blog for Maine since tons of opportunities went into my way.

It’s still surreal that God started giving me signs He knows the desire of my heart since I saw Maine twice last year and she remembered me as the “RJ” who did that informal speech in her birthday party.

I had this idea again to write a blog for Maine after hearing these words from my mama: “Namamagitan talaga ang Diyos” (God intercedes). The context is my little brother experienced a miracle as he passed the Licensure Board Examinations for Civil Engineering. Out of 3 subjects, he was only sure with 1. 

My little brother who isn’t expressive of his emotions cried out so loud, knelt down on his knees until his face touched the floor and shouting “thank You Lord! Engineer na ako ma, ate” It’s a fulfilled dream of our late papa who wished one of us will be like him, a civil engineer too.

At that moment upon knowing his uncertainties and struggles in the exam, my mama said “Namamagitan talaga ang Diyos”.

Few days after our joyous celebration, mama’s words lingered in my thoughts...until I remembered how God also interceded in Maine’s life.

We all know Maine has bashers dragging her family, friends, her choices. They also mock Maine for all the irrelevant reason that I felt logic went out of their way. Not saying this as a fan of Maine because I do appreciate people who objectively can give her criticism. But because bashers do not have a coherent reasoning and sound argument to defend their point. We also know how some people with connections attempt to sway others into thinking she is someone worthy to be hated, loathed, and despised.

To consider all the painful factors, it’s easy to say for others her career will end soon or she might thought of leaving showbiz to have a more private life away from the eyes of those irrelevant people.

But she’s still here...standing out and standing proud.

Maine is not a perfect person. No one is. She has her flaws, mistakes, and shortcomings. What’s amazing is how she wears her battle scars and face again the challenges without her heart getting hardened or bitter.

It’s impossible that she’s still here after all those trials if she’s on her own. This is why I truly believed that God worked and continuously works in Maine’s life.

She has a limited TV exposure and limited social media PR contrary to her counterparts. We’ll just be surprised if she has something in the pipeline because Maine doesn’t say thing ahead unless it’s finalized.

It’s impossible to think how a young star can become a solid endorser of brands spanning for the masa to the sosyalera. Imagine, from Zonrox to CitiGlobal condo, from SIP purified water to Shell, from Hygienix Germicidal Soap to Mac Cosmetics. But Maine did it.

God had also blessed me through Maine. Meeting fans from different backgrounds tend to intimidate me at first (Para akong batang yagit kapag katabi nila charot! hahaha!) But seriously, they’re very warm and comfortable to be with. Naeexercise pa nga brain cells ko at vocabulary kapag sila kausap. haha! I even had a few exchanges on Twitter about stock investment since I encouraged fans to consider buying stocks from companies who trusted Maine as an endorser. That’s how diversed and classy they are.

I also remembered how Maine has tons of awards in just her nearly 4 years (as of this writing time in May 2019) in showbiz. Other celebrities are still struggling to make a name for themselves but here is Maine, with awards from Blockbuster Queen to Influential Endorser, etc. I won’t even be surprised if she’ll get quadruple diamond awards soon for her soon-to-be-released album or an international acting award. Well, I do feel Mac Cosmetics is just the first of her many “international” recognitions.

Imagine also how at 24 yrs old, she has Mcdonald branches. Girl, ganyan edad ko nagbbreak down ako sa quarter life crisis at clueless sa ginagawa ko sa buhay ko?! Tapos itong si Maine parang nagtatayo lang ng tent sa ginagawa sa Mcdonald branches?? hahaaha!

On top of all her hectic schedule, she always finds time in her private (but not secret) life. So paano di ba? ang ganda na, blessed pa sa career, may negosyo pa, may time pa para sa sarili, in Paolo Ballesteros words “sarap itumba!” hahaha!

Despite all the odds stacking up and trying to work against Maine (by some people with ill intentions), she is still here.

God intercedes in Maine’s life. God showed to me how He can turn anyone the David against the Goliath of any forms.

Maine is not just a celebrity for me but I felt she is a college bestfriend I am rooting for. This is why I am more than happy seeing the glow and radiance of happiness in her. Whenever she smiles now, her eyes also sparks with that true joy.

I am privileged to see how God turned things around for Maine even if she did not take revenge or put things in her own hands.

One of my favorite Bible verse clearly reflects in Maine’s life: “The Lord will fight for you. You only need to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) This was the time Moses was clueless how to get away from the Egyptians chasing them. God demonstrated His mighty power and protection afterwards by parting the Red Sea.

God fought for Maine...and she became still and remained in God.

These things I shared now are just what I observed...Imagine what more from the side of her family and friends...they have seen for sure a closer perspective of God’s miracles in Maine’s life.

For as long as your heart is in God, you don’t need any alliance from people with influence, wealth and power. God will take care of you.

For as long as your actions pleases God, you don’t need to worry if your truth hurts other people who only live in fantasies, lies, and illusions.

Namamagitan talaga ang Diyos...at isa ang buhay ni Maine sa patunay nito.

I do hope you feel blessed upon reading this. If there is anything bothering your mind and heart, I pray that you’ll see how God will work for you too like how He did in Maine. 

Hayaan mo mamagitan din sa buhay mo ang Diyos tulad paano naniniwala at nagtitiwala si Maine sa Kanya. 

[astorytellerforthatgirl]

Who is Maine Mendoza for this Storyteller?

Maine is just a simple celebrity for me as I watched her first in July of 2015. Few months after that, I started venturing in my inconsistent freelance career. I’m a home-based content writer submitting my outputs through email or uploading in a Wordpress admin account. I’ll make sure at 12:00, I have to watch Eat Bulaga to have a glimpse of her. As the days passed by, I just find myself laughing and smiling at the slapstick comedy and funny antics of her silent character relying on Dubsmash.

I did not know it was a point of no return of my fangirling on Maine.

Being in a fandom is not new to me. I was an active UAAP vball fan before to the point I would even watch highschool vball games to know who are the prized bluechip recruits all UAAP teams want to have in their program. I made my Twitter account almost a decade ago to follow the Gosiengfiao sisters (Alodia and Ashley) to interact with them via tweets. Also, through Twitter and other socmed sites, I got to be in a fangroup of Pinay American Idol finalist Thia Megia and saw her in person. Through social media too, I met other fans of our Olympian Yan Lariba and met her in a friendly encounter.

I know the good side and also the bad side of fangirling. I’ve been into useless arguments with online trolls and I admit their words get to me…until I just learned to be indifferent and not mind it at all. Then here comes Maine. I was hesitant to be a vocal fan because of her immense popularity but again she just have that “something” in her that I want to root for.

I started profiling Maine like how I used to in the other celebrities I look up to her public accounts like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Ask.fm and lastly her blog….

MAY BLOG SI MAINE!!!

MGA KAPITBAHAY MAY BLOG SI MAINE!!!

Yes, I was surprised to know she has a blog!! My writer heart is leaping with joy!! That was the conviction I told myself it would be easier to fangirl for her since writing is my core and passion.

I started following her and knowing more about her like how she is close to her family, the rumors she went to PBB Auditions, and her other past Youtube uploaded videos. But I was still a silent fan back then since I am clueless how to handle a barrage of comments from other fans once I begin to be vocal. I am happy as a silent fan until the inevitable thing happened…

Maine released her Open Letter in November 26, 2017.

Yes, I won’t forget how I cried after reading it and not enjoying the ice cream I am eating on a Sunday afternoon. I began to connect the dots. I wanted to hate some people and wish them to have double, triple the pains of whatever Maine felt. I do want to start expressing my support for her to prove there are still like me…”isa sa sampu” fans of Maine.

The problem though is I am still at a down moment by that time. I failed to handle the pressure of a teaching career. I love the kids inside the classroom but the paperworks overwhelmed me. Attendance, quizzes, understanding the lesson plan, submitting other requirement, etc---those did not fare good for me. I just realized I only want to be with the kids even if I am with them 6-7 hours straight, I don’t get tired at all. I found out I like to be a public speaker but I cannot cope up with the tremendous responsibilities of the teacher.

Being an overthinker, I felt I failed again not myself but my family and everyone who believed in me. I was down for months and clueless what to do next. I even think if there would still be a company or business owner who would take risk with me seeing my resume with months of no work as I rested after resigning from the teaching post.

I thought of how I am a burden again and have no direction in my career, whereas my batchmates might already be settling down with their partners, finishing their master’s degree, or exploring more of what they can do abroad. There I was, clueless and do not know again where to start. I am just thankful I have a supportive family and set of friends who waited until I got tired of being afraid and overthinking.

There were even days I wish I can just sleep forever and not wake up to those clueless and empty days again. I was also telling God that time I wish I was the one He took instead of my papa who passed away in 2007 due to an illness. Because my papa would be able to help my family instead of my inconsistency, fears, and overthinking. I was in that bargaining stage and I am too blinded, hurt, and tired to see my own worth and potential.

In those dark times, I would pray for a direction…for an enlightenment. Angels in the form of my friends and my family gave me words to fight back. It was enough to hold on….until I saw an excerpt from Maine’s book through an online article of cosmo.ph promoting her book:

“Things may go from bad to worse and you might feel like it’s never going to change, but believe me when I say it will get better. Everything will be all right, I promise you. We may have our own different battles, but remember there is only one God. He is always looking down on us wherever we go and whatever obstacle we face. You may currently be in a lot of pain, but you never know what God has in store for your future.

Marami pang magagandang bagay ang mangyayari sa buhay mo. Magtiwala ka. Kapit lang, laban lang.

P.S.  If you are looking for a sign on whether you should still hold on or give up, this is it. Hold on tight, my dear. Don't you ever give up; never ever give up. “

I cried and smiled after reading it. “Ikaw talaga Lord ha, si Maine pa pinadala Mo rin para sabihin kaya ko pa.” The darker those moments are for me, the brighter are all the Bearers of Light shone in my life. I begin to see more how my mama is patient with me, how my brothers would ask what do I want to eat or where do I want to go, friends who would tell me they will meet me anywhere I wish to be…and that excerpt from Maine’s book.

So I told myself: May laban pa ako. Isang subok pa.

It took me until January to gather all my guts. I started editing my resume. I came back to my freelancing career by looking for homebased jobs. It was also the time I just thought of blogging for Maine. I was still doubting if I am ready to be a vocal fan…but I know in my heart if God is telling me to do something even if I am still scared or doubtful of it.

I posted my first entry about Maine on this tumblr account. What comes next are series of unexpected blessings coming in my way…I did not look for them but the opportunities found me instead. Here are some of them:

(a)    Got a DM asking if I can write for Clairedelfinmedia.com after they read my blog about Maine and Nadine parallelisms

(b)   Got invited twice to Maine’s bday party by generous fans. First is when I told her she is a Bearer of Light and we are her 10th heartbeat in the #EnchantressMaine23. Second is when I co-host in the #DearMaine bday event.

(c)    An anonymous fan who works abroad gifted me a Microsoft Surface Tablet just because she is thankful for my support for Maine.

(d)   Meeting some fans who are as level-headed and as classy like Maine I felt I attended a business conference instead of a fan event.

(e)   Getting back on my feet again to find the direction in my career.

Also, I am grateful my mama is a silent fan of Maine. You see, I am already in my late 20s but she treats me like a pre-teen kid and I find it difficult to ask permission to go to different places and stay late. Kung pwede 6pm sa bahay na ako at may number si mama ng lahat ng kasama ko para mapanatag siya. So I was surprised it was easy for me to ask permission going to Maine’s bday event even if I come home late at evening. As my mama said, “May swerteng dala sayo si Maine, puntahan mo lang pag meron.”

Of course, going back to my freelance career is not as smooth as what I expected. Rejections and no follow-up interviews came, some would even ask me to stop writing for them and they would just pay me for the weeks I wrote, or I have already written an article then suddenly my contact person said the client forgot to ask for the specific writer and that isn’t me.  

It was still difficult but I am grateful to find this new courage, thanks to God’s constant faithfulness in my life and to all my Bearers of Light. In 2018 too, I found CCF, a Christian church whom I am comfortable with in sharing my flaws and mistakes. They focus more on God’s grace, justice, and mercy for everyone than other close-minded religious people or groups who condemn sinners.

Thanks to Maine too, I started to try new things which I still hesitated before. I remembered reading her IG post on her skydiving experience. She encouraged us to try things out even if we are still scared. In 2018, I tried acting workshop and auditioned in a production house for a voice-over artist. I even tried if I could be a female reporter in an FM station. Although these things haven’t yet prospered for me, I am happy to try it out and see what else I can try aside from writing.

At present, I invested in a copywriting module and joined an uplifting and supportive Filipino community of freelance copywriters in a Facebook group. I am determined to venture into copywriting because it is parallel to my passion in storytelling and writing. The process of improving myself excites me.  I am a homebased content writer (as of this time) who still have a lowpay rate but I am enjoying the flexibility of my time. Plus, the company I work for recently gave me incentives and gift certificates.

Going back to one of the dark times in my life and just want to give up, God sent His angels in different forms to remind me I still have to fulfill His purpose, His story, and His plans in my life. He intended to break my heart and dreams so He can form it with a new one. In those times, God chose Maine too to tell me I can and I will be able to do it with God’s help.

This is just a fraction of what Maine did for me. I am more than thankful and will always support her even in the future that she is a private citizen and enjoys that under-the-radar life away from the fame and attention of public.

Salamat talaga Maine sa lahat lahat! 

Bearer of Light, please keep on radiating! 

God rewarded your sacrifices and good heart.

Embrace the genuine happiness you have now.

[astorytellerforthatgirl]

Dei’s Treasured Trophy

Author’s Note: This is my entry to the English Division and Short Story Category of the 68th Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. This is a draft story years ago but I cannot proceed with it yet because I am looking for a strong character profile. Until this early 2018, I decided Maine is the fitting inspiration for that character. She knew I will join Palanca as I told her the first time we met. Afterwards in our second meeting, I showed her the receiving copy of my submitted entry. I now wholeheartedly share this story to you after the committee announce the winners. Enjoy reading! - RJ T. Vargas

Synopsis

          To describe Dei, she is a hardworking freelance worker, responsible student, and loving daughter and sister. She balances her time between her all responsibilities no matter how busy she is. Out of all her priorities, taking care of Rionne, her younger sister, is the most important one for her,

           A memory from last year still haunts Dei for the fear it may happen again. She does everything she can to prevent it. She shall do whatever it takes to protect everyone she cares for, most especially her sister.

           Fear is a deceptive emotion Dei has to deal with. Either it may immobilize her from carrying out the things she must accomplish, or it can turn into a driving force for her to gain the strength she needs to overcome the challenges.

          This short story is an attempt to raise more awareness and fight against the stigma about an issue. Dei’s Treasured Trophy shares values about resilience, self-love, friendship, family ties, and faith in God.

Dei’s Treasured Trophy

           “CONGRATS for your great performance in Olympics Ann! Ibang level ka na talaga!!!!THAT’S MY BESTFRIEND!!!!Share your stories about your games and experiences sa bonding natin ha. I miiiiiss youuuu! Let’s catch up soon please!”

           Dei types her message and presses the enter button. Last time she saw her was a week before her month-long training in South Korea then Ann flew to Hong Kong for the competition. Her best friend replies, “As soon as we get back home, promise! See you soon Dei! (^_^)”. It’s amusing how Ann still adds emoticon even when most online users choose emoji nowadays.

           She switches the tab from Facebook to a WordPress login page. She finishes her deadline for one of her regular freelance projects. Her blog posts about the top 10 most romantic Coldplay songs is due tonight. Dei transfers her revised draft and saves it there for pending review of her editor. It was hard for her choosing her top 10, as she loves all their songs. Also, she is a huge fangirl of Chris Martin. ”Iba talaga feels ng mga kanta nila!Oh I hope Coldplay comes back here…” she mutters to herself.

           She then opens Audacity and polishes an audio file by reducing the noise background and adding more echo. No matter how confusing the uploaded files are in the track control panel, she handles everything like a pro. She saves and sends the audio file to a client who hired her as a voice-over talent.

           Her spare time for this month is more than what she scheduled first. Dei wonders if she can do an additional freelance project. She opens her Facebook and scrolls down to see posts in a group of local freelance talents searching for auditions and casting. She finds a workshop offered by an entertainment agency. A director Dei will never forget in her life will conduct it. She has been a talent appearing in commercials and TV shows. Several months has passed but she still remembers his response after she told that director she is just an extra in those projects.

           He asked her experiences because he mentioned her familiarity despite her lack of self-confidence. The director likes her wit and spontaneity in an impromptu comedic act she did for her audition.

           “Anak, support ang tawag sayo, hindi extra.Those scenes need your role as a support to be complete. I see a future phenomenal star in you. We can further improve your talents once you believe more in yourself.”

           He was willing to train her under his talent pool. Dei wanted to say yes and commit that time because it is one of her dreams to enter the showbiz industry. However, she is still an incoming fourth year student in college that time around. She cannot afford to fill her schedule more than what she can do and what her time allows.

            “Well, I cannot get sad over a missed opportunity. Priorities first!”She browses her own YouTube channel. It is one of her so-called happy distraction when she feels down or is about to feel that way.It has been a long time since her last posted video.

             “I miss sharing more videos to my ten supporters.” She laughs loudly.

             Dei positions her camera with the tripod. She acts like a model in front of the mirror. Her full bangs almost covers her expressive dark brown eyes. Her black hair is an inch past her shoulders. She thinks of dropping by a salon to trim her hair next week. Her brown and fair complexion epitomizes a morena Filipina beauty. Her sunshine smile shows her excitement for her next video.

             She tries to mimic first different artists’ voices and body languages. Then, she impersonates Jessa Zaragosa, Shakira, and Jaya as she sings their songs. Next, she records herself dubsmashing to Kris Aquino’s lines. She gets distracted whenever she laughs hard so she pauses first the recording. Dei decides to record everything in one go for each personality. It takes a longer time for her editing the raw videos because she finds herself funny for her all out on-cam performances. Indeed, she loves making people happy and this is one of her unique ways to do so.

             In the middle of uploading her newest video in YouTube, Skype notifies an incoming call.Their parents calling her. Dei expects this call as their parents do it every day.

             She answers the call and she’s thrilled to tell them a good news. Her parents are smiling as she sees them on her laptop screen despite of their tired and drowsy eyes. She kisses and touches them through the screen. “Hello po Ma! Pa! I love you so much! I miss you po!” She wishes to take away their tiredness with her simple gestures.

            “Dei, how is our ever responsible daughter? Do you even have enough hours of sleep? Do you rest between your busy schedule? Sobrang dami mo kasing ginagawa.” Her mother cannot hide her concerns.

             “Of course po Ma! I need my beauty rest so I should not be stressed with school and my freelance projects.Di po ako pwede magmukhang haggard!”

              Her father laughs as if he did not laugh for a long time. “We feel like we are with you whenever we video call. By the way Dei, what is the good news you want share? You chat about it last time.”

              She tells them to wait for a minute. Returning with a small trophy, she exclaims “Here it is Pa, Ma! This is from our college department. I can’t believe I am one of the three President’s Lister! They gave a trophy to each of us. Umaasenso di ba? Di na lang po sila pa-certificate.They said not every semester they have President’s Lister so this is how they celebrate it with us. This is my treasured trophy!”

             “We are so proud of you sweetie! Keep up the good work! This is why we support your freelance projects. You know your priorities well, Dei. You told us before about how difficult are your school works. Here you are now! Your sacrifices are rewarded! Ang galing at sipag mo talaga!” her father beams with much pride.

             “Thank you po, Ma!Pa!Uhmmm…May I…May I ask something?”

           “What is it?”

           “I know I asked this last time but…when will you come back home? If only Dubai is just a tricycle away, I and Rionne will visit you there every day.”

           “Dei…” her mother tries to smile as she holds back her tears. If only they have a choice, the couple will stay with their two daughters. “Dei, we love to be there with you and Rionne but we still need to save more. We used almost all our savings for the medical bill of your sister last year. We want to go home too, believe us…but I hope you will understand.”

           “How is your little sister doing recently? Do not forget her medicines. Ask her if she feels anything wrong and tell us if you need more help. We will do everything to prevent what happened last year, whatever it takes.” Her father gives her assurance.

           “I always take care of Rionne, Ma, Pa. Don’t worry about her. She knows when she must take her medicines. I don’t even need to remind her about it. She is doing well in school. Her grades are within line of nine. Her weekends are filled with either her extra-curricular activities or bonding with her friends or with me. She enjoys doing everything! I’m happy hearing stories of how her day went. If she feels bad about something, she opens up to me. She fulfills her promise of not keeping any secret from me. If only she knows you will call this time, she will not attend her meeting in Student Supreme Council. She misses you too so much! ”She tells them honestly about her sister’s current situation.

           “Thank you for taking care of her Dei no matter how busy you are. You always make time for people you love. We are so blessed to have you and Rionne as our daughters.”

           They talk for hours until she did not notice her video is uploaded in YouTube.

                                                          ***

           “Every time you look at that trophy, Ate, you’re very proud of that achievement and clean the dusts off every week. Ang cute mo! Hahahaha!” She teases her Ate Dei when she sees her cleaning in their living room. She offers to help her but her older sister just requested her to wash the dishes, into which she follows. Rionne enters her room after her sister cleaned their entire house. She wants to finish her school works and other tasks in her extra-curricular activities.

           After Dei cleaned, she knocks at her sister’s room. Rionne says she can come in. She sees her sister with her books, handouts, and other paperwork while she keeps away the seven book-series about themagical journey of the chosen boy to defeat a dark lord. Her Ate Dei gave that book set.

           Rionne sits down and focuses on her laptop. Maybe she is finishing a schoolwork, as Dei thought. She bought the book set last week and her sister already told her the summary of every book this morning. Her sister even delivered lines, word by word, from her favorite scenes and characters.

            “How did she finish it all? Didn’t she just prepared and competed for her inter-school general knowledge quiz bee last week?” Dei cannot imagine how her sister, a junior highschool student, balances her time as if she is a working adult.  Then, she recalls Rionne’s doctor told her before it is normal for her to excel in multitasking, a common ground of those with her medical condition. Dr. Mejia even emphasized they are natural achievers and majority of them have high IQ but they need to improve more their EQ.

             Suddenly, A loud hit distracts Dei.

             Rionne hits her table hard with her first that it surprises them both. She is used seeing her sister blaming herself with her mistakes but the pains never lessen every time it happens. When things do not go well according to what she expects, she do things impulsively which she regrets later on. Dei wishes her words and hugs are more than enough to remind her sister that her worth is more than all her achievements combined and every setbacks she encountered. Deiloves Rionne so much for who her sister is.

             Dei puts away her other books. Her sister’s collection includes fictions from contemporary Filipino writers like Grace Chong, Merlinda Bobis, Miguel Syjuco, Cristina Pantoja-Hidalgo, Dean Francis Alfar and from Filipino classic writers such as Jose Garcia Villa, Nick Joaquin, Liwayway Arceo, and Lualhati Bautista. She also has non-fiction books about self-help and financial literacy from Bro. Bo Sanchez and Chinkee Tan, respectively.

           Dei scans her sister’s laptop and notices she just posted a question in a Facebook group about photography and another opened tab is Venus Raj’s testimonial about her Christian faith. Her sister is very open to her after what happened last year. It was her doctor’s advice to read her online posts. It was their parents’ request to see her browsing history given if her sister shows unusual behavior. She opens a recently closed tab, sees an email, asks permission if she can read it. Her sister nods. The email is a short notice of thanking Rionne for her participation but they regret to say her sister did not make it in the cut-off for their school’s final selection of their debate team. Now she understands what made her hit her fist so hard on the table.

            Dei looks over the room trying to find anything, which can help her, to make her sister feel better. She stops at the books she bought for Rionne. It is her sister’s first set of books from a foreign author. Her sister placed them at the center space of the cabinet turned to a mini-library. She can’t forget how much her sister loves to have it but the complete set is too expensive for her. It was just like yesterday when her sister jumped out of joy when she gave it on her birthday.

             For Rionne, she saw again how generous and thoughtful her Ate Dei is. For Dei, she bought the books not only because her sister wants it but because she always sees the magic in her as she excels in things she does because of her passion. She sees the magic in her heart because she never loses her sincerity, goodness, and faith in God…despite of everything that happened last year. 

             “Last year? Why am I still thinking about it Wala na yun! Rionne is okay now. We are happy now...”she tries to pacify her own fears.

              She approaches her sister slowly. She needs to make sure first her sister wants to be hugged. At times, Rionne pushes her away not because her sister likes to do it but because it is one of the impulsive reactions of her extreme mood swings brought by her medical condition.

              Dei shakes her head and reminds herself,“I must pull myself together! This is not the time to be scared! Rionne needs me more now!”

               She needs to be strong for her because they do not have anyone with them. She needs to be strong because the situation will get worse if she gives up. She needs to be strong because she loves her so much, she cannot bear to see her sister getting more hurt and angry.

              She pats her sister’s head gently. Her sister looks at her and hugs her so tight. Rionne cries on her older sister’s shoulder. That is her haven and refuge. It is and always her Ate Dei who comforts her immediately in times she crashes down in her own thoughts and feelings. She keeps on reminding her sister she is doing her best. She is very gentle to Rionne. Slowly, her sister calms down and stops overthinking.

              Unexpectedly, her sister breaks the silence and changes her tone. “You are so sweet and kind Ate! Whoever you choose among those guys who tries to win your heart, he’s such a lucky one!”

              Dei laughs and pinches her sister’s cheek. “Dear, your Ate Dei has a lot of priorities and lovelife is not included in it! Hahahaha! Pinapamigay mo na ba ako? I am happy with my life now and I do not need a guy to complete me. Bonus na lang pag may ibigay si Lord.I am happy chasing my dreams. I am happy with our family. I am happy you are here with me, Rionne.”

              “The way you call my name is my favorite unlike how everyone else calls me, Ate. It rhymes with lion and your pronunciation feels like I am a royalty.” her sister chuckles.

              “Out of everything I said, that’s the only thing you heard? Hahaha!” Dei giggles and hugs her sister. She loves her so much. She realizes she loves her more after she wasn’t home last year for two months. Her giggles and smiles turned to a neutral expression. Fear crawls in her heart. If only it was that easy to forget why Rionne was away from them for two months... She will make sure it will not happen again. She will cross all the oceans just for her sister. 

              “Lord, please make that the last time…Do not ever let it happen again…”Dei prays as she pleads in her deepest thoughts.

                                                        ****

           “That is the end of my report. Do you have questions? Any clarification?” Dei tries to stand confidently in front of their class. Her blockmates do not have a single clue about her cold and uneasy hands. She prepared enough for this report but she is not sure if she did well. She believes she gave her best but this report is different because their professor has a higher standard compared to what she was used to with her other subjects.

           Dei feels awkward with the deafening silence in their room that she can hear the AC unit and ticking of the room’s clock. Her blockmates are active participants but she feels they are too timid now to share their ideas. She clears her throat and asks instead about their personal goal in relation to self-actualization according to Abraham Maslow’s theory, which was about her report. One of them raises his hand and shares his ultimate dream to serve his hometown by becoming a successful businessman. She nods and smiles as he answers because she admires his generosity.

           ”Parang autistic talaga yang nagmamarunong na yan. Ang bipolar ng mood.”Dei hears someone from the front row whispers to his seatmate. It gets into her nerve but she maintains her composure. She says thank you to her classmate who shared his personal goal.

           “Guys, I want to share you one of my personal goals. I want to be a vocal and active mental health advocate with my own foundation to raise awareness about this issue and fight the stigma in our country. I dream that one day, no one will be scared to consult experts as people might say they are going crazy. I want to see that day we will validate everyone’s feelings to prevent triggering them. We may start doing this by avoid using words like autistic and bipolar to mock and insult those we don’t like.Please, let’s be more sensible in our words.” She says it all firmly without mentioning about her blockmates whom she heard those words from.

           “Ms. Dei Archangel, I like how you delivered your report even if you did not discuss further the other details. Nevertheless, what I like most from what I heard today is your mental health advocacy. Make that dream of having your own foundation into a reality.”their professor commends Dei.

                                                        ****

              Rionne storms in their living room as soon as she comes home from school. Dei hears her ranting about the periodical exam she failed in the subject she struggles most after her adviser talks to her privately. Her sister expects a low score but not below the passing mark. In her entire student life, that is her first time to fail an exam. It shocks Rionne because she did not see it coming.

              She sees her sister’s eyes turn berserk, as if this is another person and not her sister at all.She recalls all the painful words she heard long before. Her sister curses her classmates and yells angrily how insensitive they are for smart-shaming her and calling her names.

               Rionne becomes hysterical and impulsive. Dei sees how she grabs that trophy and flower vase. She tries to stop her but her sister throws both on the wall. Its sharp pieces scratches and wounds her. She runs toward her sister to prevent hurting herself more. Her sister shouts the words she is scared to hear the most.

              “I AM A FAILURE!!!! I AM USELESS!!!!! I WANT TO DIE!!!!!”

              Rionne becomes uncontrollable. Dei did not feel her tears flowing when she sees her sister gets hurt, scared, confused, and mad at herself.She wipes her tears and tries to calm down her sister in her arms. She hugs her tightly even if her sister pushes her away. She remains strong even if she is hurting, physically, emotionally, and mentally. She endures it all rather than not to see her sister again in their home for two months.This is the non-negotiable promise she plants in her heart and she will never compromise it no matter what happens.

              In the middle of pacifying Rionne, painful memories last year floods back in Dei’s mind. It was as if everything happened yesterday. She remembers clearly how her sister broke down because a friend she trusts backstabbed her. They cannot calm her down easily.

              She started to hurt herself. Minutes later, she punches her parents and Dei. For the next hours, she tried to rush out of their front door. She keeps on shouting she wants to die. She wanted to end it all by running towards a fast moving car. Their father hugged her tight despite all the struggles she is doing to fight against him.

              For Dei, it felt like an eternal torture to see her family that way until her sister tires herself. Their mother caresses her hair and hugs her until she calms down. Dei kisses her on the forehead and says, “Everything will be alright dear Rionne. Sleep and rest first.”

              Their parents contacted her psychiatrist. Dei saw how her parents cried and hugged each other as if the world turned its back on them. She asked why and what did he said, but they did not answer her.

              “Dei, we will go to Dr. Mejia. He wants to see Rionne as soon as possible.” Endless questions and thoughts run across Dei’s mind but she cannot do anything except to oblige to her parents’ instruction.They waited for her to wake up and give her the first aid medication the psychiatrist recommended to help stabilize her mood in a breakdown episode.

              Inside the clinic of Dr. Mejia, he talked first to her sister. It went for more than 30 minutes perhaps, as Dei estimated. She was outside and became more impatient while waiting. She stood up and walked back and forth in the hallway. She got more anxious because the regular check-ups with Rionne’s psychiatrist do not usually take this long.He then asked for their parents in the clinic. Dei wanted to barge in that door separating her and her sister whom she feels is terrified silently. She wanted to know everything. What treatment will the psychiatrist give her this time around?

              At last, after more than an hour of waiting, Dr. Mejia asked Dei to be inside the clinic and sit beside Rionne. Her sister hugged her, turned to her doctor, and said, “Can my Ate be with me there? If she is not allowed to stay with me, then please let her visit me at least every week…” Tears formed in her sister’s eyes.

              Confusion, shock, fear, and betrayal---Dei does not know what exactly she feels at that moment or if she feels everything at once.She loses her temper and firmly said, “Where will you bring her??!! What is going here??!! CAN YOU JUST PLEASE TELL ME EVERYTHING RIGHT NOW??!!” Her emotions took its toll on Dei. If there is something worst to happen, then she needs to know it right at that moment.

              Dr. Mejia waited for her to calm down. When she came back to her senses, he explained in details. “Dei, we need to treat Rionne in a psychiatric facility. Her bipolar disorder becomes full blown with the recent event that triggered her. I cannot guarantee how long she must stay there because it will depend if she responds better to the treatments we will give. We need to do this to observe her round the clock to provide her immediate attention. Do not worry, the facility has trained and kind staffs. They have different worthwhile activities on a daily, weekly, and monthly routine. Your family can visit her regularly within the hours they allow. If you have questions and concerns, you may ask now or contact me in the mobile number I gave your parents.”

              Dei’s heart sank. The thought of not seeing Rionne for a day already worried and scared her to death. Who will take care of her? Can they handle her if she has her episodes of breaking down and impulsiveness? Will they know if she is depressed like how she feels her sister just by looking at her in one glance? Do they have the patience to comfort her in her worst and darkest days? She wanted to refuse. She wanted to shout and say they will just bring her home.

              However, the harsh reality slapped her in that moment---their family cannot take care of Rionne’s worsening mental health condition. That was why her psychiatrist recommended admitting her there as the best or probably the only option left for them.

              Dr. Mejia continued, “People with bipolar disorder are a gift for everyone but they see themselves as a curse for themselves. Their extreme mood swings can affect their normal lives which is why we need to balance it. They love sharing their time and efforts doing things they love and for the people they love.” He looked at her sister and smiled, “In most cases, those diagnosed like Rionne are achievers. They want to aim high every time and make people happy. Failing on that exam hurts her so much and triggers her condition, so she feels it is the end for her. The bright side though is even if there is no known and proven cure yet for bipolar disorder, treatments are available for them to live a normal and productive life. Stories of successful personalities with bipolar disorder such as Demi Lovato inspires her.

              “Dei, Rionne aims to have a balance life. She believes she will overcome her mental health challenges. Let us give your sister a fighting chance.” Dr. Mejia said those words as if it was so easy for her to just let go of her sister and allow other people to take care of her. It did not sit well with her. She wants to refuse but she cannot think of a better way to treat her sister.

              Rionne hits her chest lighty with her fist. “Ako pa! I can do that Ate Dei! Don’t worry about me. I will behave there so I can go home soon and we can bond again!”

              Dei did not hold back her tears anymore. She cried while smiling and hugged her sister. She feels ashamed of herself for not trusting Rionne enough. If her sister is this strong, then she needs to be stronger too for her. She agreed to the option after seeing the courage in her sister’s eyes.

              For the following days, it has been a regular routine for their family to visit her every day. On weekdays, they went there together in the psychiatric facility. Their parents wanted to see her every single day but their free time is only after their office hours. The visiting hours in the psychiatric facility only allow from morning to afternoon.

              On weekdays, Dei went there after her classes. On other days, she was too busy with her school works but she still found ways to visit even if she needs to leave earlier from the psychiatric facility.

              Rionne shared different stories based on what happened that day. She told Dei excitedly how it was easy to be friends with most of the patients in the psychiatric facility. She hated how she must drink her medicines every morning, lunch, and night. She enjoyed the activities too like outdoor and board games, arts and crafts sessions, acting workshop, dancing lessons. On some days, she ran towards Dei crying because she said other patients inside shouted at her and they want to pick a fight against her. There are times too when she apologized to her Ate Dei for not behaving well that is why the staff need to isolate her from the other patients until she calms down.

              “When will I come home Ate? I miss papa, mama, and of course, I miss you so much!” Not a single day that passed whenever Dei visits, Rionne asked this question with much longing and impatience.

              “Soon…just promise me you are behaving every day here so Dr. Mejia can see you are ready to come home soon.” Dei smiled at her with much love and assurance.

              In all her visits to Rionne, she was all smiles in listening to her story. She was thrilled too sharing her own experiences, as if catching up with a friend she did not see for years even if she visits her sister every day. Whenever the staff reminded them visiting hours is over, her sister always asked for just few seconds to hug her and tell her she loves her Ate Dei so much. She hugs her back and sees her going inside. A thick metal door closed wherein she feels the patients are like are prisoners. One of the staff explained to her psychiatric facilities need that design for the doors in case anyone breaks down and tries to escape. The staff lets visitors watch the patients through the CCTV monitor. Dei refused to look at it because she does not want to have a memory of her sister inside the psychiatric facility.

              As soon as she left the main gate of the psychiatric facility, she cried silently. She failed containing those overwhelming emotions even if she was already used to that exhausting set-up. She did not know anymore at that moment if those tears are out of longing, pain, regret, or hatred at herself for not protecting her sister enough. What she was sure of is she will never give up because Rionne herself is fighting with all she got. Indeed, Dei is the greatest pretender whenever she visits her sister.

              This routine went on for days, weeks, and two months.

              Finally, Dr. Mejia called them. He called them every week to give update about their youngest daughter’s progress and lapses. That time though, was a different phone call. “Mr. and Mrs. Archangel, Rionne responded positively to the treatments we gave her. In fact, I earlier estimated she might stay for at least six months. Her determination to be well and desire to come back home sped up her treatment. You may settle her bill in the psychiatric facility so she will be discharged within this day.”

              Their family went hurriedly to the psychiatric facility to tell the good news to Rionne. Their parents went to the billing department. Few minutes later, they came out with worried look on their faces. The bill cost nearly half a million pesos. They can pay for the amount but that means they have to sell their hard-earned property in the province of their parents and use their savings. Without any hesitation, they started calling their friends who said before they wanted to buy that property.

              “Dei, please stay here first. We will find means to get Rionne out and bring her home within this day.” Their parents gave her assurance.

              Dei went to her sister first while waiting for their parents. “Uuwi na tayo mamaya! You are brave and strong Rionne! Dr. Mejia said many good things about you. Ate is so proud of you, dear!”

              “What did I tell you Ate! Ako pa! At last, I can come home!! Yaaaay!! We will watch movies, cook meals, bike around the village, or just sleep all day long! Hahaha!” Her sister hugged her so tight she felt she was about to be squeezed.

              “I promise you Ate Dei, I won’t come back here again as patient. If I will return here, I want to help others enduring bipolar disorder too like me.” Rionne beamed with much confidence.

              “Yes, you will not come back in a psychiatric facility again…”

              The medical bill almost left their family with nothing in their finances. This pushed her parents to accept the offer to work in Dubai so they won’t struggle in their everyday needs. This is also the same reason Dei works as a freelancer in her spare time from school. Despite all the challenges they experienced last year, it made their family ties closer. She loves the improvements from her sister after the treatments inside the psychiatric facility.

              Never did Dei anticipate her sister might have another breakdown.

              She continues to pacify her sister after she shakes off those memories she do not want to happen again.“Sssshhhh, everything will be alright dear Rionne. You promised me something last year…You will not come back there again. You can cry. You can tell me everything. Just ple--- just please don’t hurt yourself. I love you…Ate Dei loves you so much and I will do everything to take care and protect you…even from yourself.” She whispered lovingly to her while her voice cracks.

              Dei starts humming Rionne’s favorite song. It was from a popular animated movie about a Greek demigod’s journey as he believes he can go far in reaching his dreams.Few minutes later, her sister stops struggling. She gives her the medicine into which she takes in. She sings the lyrics and she looks at her.Her sister hugs her and cries in her shoulder. She is too tired so they sat on the couch as she continues to singing. After the song, Rionne sleeps comfortably in her Ate Dei’s caring hug. She wraps her sister’s right arm on her shoulder and supports her upper body. She brings her sister to her room in that position and tucks her to bed.

              “I love you talaga Ate Dei...”Rionne murmurs in her sleep.

              Dei brushes her hair and sings her a lullaby. “Thank God she calms down.”She thought. She treats her sister’s scratches and tiny wounds from breaking the vase and trophy with their first aid kit. Her mother reminds her to prepare that in case something happens. She wishes before she will only use it on herself, and not on her sister.She is too tired as well so she tucks herself beside her sister in bed, hugs Rionne gently, and closes her eyes to rest.

              It has been a long day for Dei.

                                                           *****

              “I always need to be strong enough for them but I feel like I am about to give up soon…” Dei types these words and clicks the tweet button.

              21 people follows her private account. All of them are her close friends. She trust them with her life. Although, most of them are inactive in Twitter so Dei finds it more comfortable releasing her thoughts in that social media platform.

              What Dei doesn’t know is Ann sees that tweet after 5 hours. Her bestfriend replies to her tweet and sends her a direct message in Twitter. Ann feels anxious just waiting for her to reply to she calls her through mobile phone. Dei stares blankly at her phone. Her athletic best friend has fast reflexes in sports and sharp intuition in connecting to friends. She knows at that point Ann would want to ask if she is okay and what is happening. She wants to pick up her phone and talk to her but she does not know what to say at all. She just turns off her phone and stares blankly at the ceiling of her room, contemplating about her thoughts and emotions.

              Suddenly, she feels her tears flowing but she is not sobbing. Her neutral expression seems to show her mind and heart made her numb.

              Did she become too strong that she did not notice her tears anymore? She doesn’t know but she is certain she wants to fight more.

              She needs this time all alone for herself, even just for while. She does not track of the time because at this moment, she wants to clear her mind to gather her strength and focus again.

              When her emotions subside a bit, Dei comes out of her room to prepare their dinner. She likes cooking more than Rionne does. Even though her sister does not cook much, she always help her in kitchen. She checks the ingredients. Some are not enough so she sends her sister to an errand to buy some ingredients for their meal.

              Not long after her sister went out, she hears repeated doorbells. She thinks may be Rionne gets confuse with the list she gave and will ask about it.

              She opens the gate and sees Ann. “We are supposed to meet next week with our catch-up lunch but you made me so worried today! You aren’t replying to my texts and chats. You didn’t answer my calls until your phone becomes attended. I called your landline and it was Rionne who answered. She said you were in your room this whole afternoon. I told her not to mention to you I will visit tonight.” Ann catches her breath after talking too fast.“We’re best friends! Why did you not tell it to me? Since when did you start feeling that way…I mean like what you tweeted?” Ann motions they enter their home to talk about it. Her best friend lets her sit on the couch first.

              Ann softens her voice and with a more gentle tone, she says, “Ano bang nangyari? How can I help you? I know there is something wrong the moment I saw your tweet…If you are not yet ready to share it now, we can watch movies here with these DVD copies I bought.”

              Dei sighs and turns to her. Her best friend sees her gloomy eyes. “I need to fight back. I must be stronger but it feels like I am running out of strength to fight anymore. Nakakapagod pala.It feels like I am about to lose myself even if I still want to fight.” She admits.

              She badly wants to cry but she feels her heart toughened from everything she went through especially in taking care of Rionne. It is nearly a year now since she looks after her sister all by herself. Their parents hesitated to go to Dubai but she assured them she could protect her sister.

              Ann lets her best friend vent out all her thoughts to her. They are childhood friends and they went to the same school until they graduated from high school. Dei’s university gave her a 50% scholarship. Ann chose her current university because the table tennis and other sports programs impressed her. Even if they are not from the same university now in college, their friendship remains strong as ever. They even consider themselves twin sisters by heart. Ann knows something is bothering her best friend even before she posted that tweet. She listens intently to her. Her best friend looks at her as if Dei is waiting to hear an advice or words of encouragement.

              “Before I reached my dream of playing in Olympics, I experienced failures, rejections, disappointments, and setbacks.” Ann clears her throat as she feels her voice becomes shaky.“I even questioned myself that even I love playing table tennis, can I still continue? I realize Dei you cannot really stop from doing what you love. You just need to rest first, gather strength, and pray every day to focus on your goals.”

              Ann sees the photo of their family beside their landline phone. She takes it and shows to her best friend. “I know how much you love you love your family. Let that love become the driving force for you to continue whatever happens. All of us, your friends, are always here to remind you how strong you are but sometimes you need to take a break and rest first. I cannot imagine how difficult your responsibilities are but I know you can do them all.

              “I believe in you. God trusts you so much and He never gives more than what you can bear.” Ann smiles and gives her the photo. Dei hugs her and smiles. No need for her to cry more after she feels lighter in her heart.

              “Thank you Ann for always telling me the words I need to hear at the most crucial times. Para kang si Doc Gia na level kung makapag-advice.” Dei laughs heartily. Thank God, she has Ann as her best friend.

                                                        ****

              Dei is uncomfortable with Rionne’s silence. Her sister seems to be thinking too much again. She calls her attention.

              “Dear, what’s wrong? I know when you are overthinking. I know when you are uncomfortable with anything. What is our promise? No secrets, right?”

              “I can’t really hide anything from you Ate…I am sorry for breaking your favorite trophy when I---“

              Dei is relieved. At least, Rionne worries over a less important thing. She stops what her sister is saying as she pulls her closer and looks into her eyes.

              “That trophy is nothing compared to the treasured trophy I have. Do you know what it is?” Rionne shakes her head gesturing no as a response. Dei smiles widely, pats her head, and hugs her tightly.

              “Seeing you live your life in the best way you can. You accept your flaws and turn it into your strength. That is Ate Dei’s treasured trophy, Rionne. That is my true trophy. I couldn’t be more proud of you!”

              “I will fulfill all my dreams and I will always say thank you for everything Ate Dei. Watch me shine and fly!”

                                                                  ****

[astorytellerforthatgirl]

Dearest Maine, Thank You So Much (Last of 4-part Blog Series)

I apologize for the delay of this last part of my blog series. I just need to craft the right words to express what I feel for this concluding part.

The #DearestMaine event is indeed successful. From my personal observations, I come into two major realizations. Let me explain in details why I come up with these two.

Maine’s Light Shines Brighter Than Ever

I saw Maine for the first time back in March 14, 2018 for the enchantress themed party. She was overwhelmed with the support of different fans. It was in that event she tried to fight back her tears as she gave her message for us all. That message was for everyone who continues to believe in her through thick and thin, highs and lows, ups and downs. It’s a roller-coaster ride but it is definitely worth it to support a personality like Maine. I feel she cannot believe the tremendous and relentless support she personally witnessed through that event. Maybe for her, it was so surreal. It warms my heart to see her getting all those love, care, and support.

Fast forward to May 30, 2018, Maine has a change a bit in her demeanor and aura. She is still and always thankful for the support the we gave her. What is heartwarming this time around is I feel she accepts wholeheartedly the overwhelming support for her. I did not feel again the same observation last time wherein she cannot believe everything she’s experiencing. It warms again my heart seeing her in that way---but this time, with full acceptance she is indeed love by true supporters. Sabi nga niya, sana wala daw expiration date yun pagtanggap natin. It was just a span of two months from the first and second time I saw her upclose personally. It was just two months but her light shines brighter than ever.

Exchange of Gifts and Gratitude

#DearestMaine event became the bridge to exchange both gifts and gratitude between Maine and us, her supporters. Little did Maine know her funny antics, wise words, impeccable timing in comedy, improving acting, hosting, and singing skills, pictures and random thoughts shared in her social media, warm interaction with fans, and so many more brought that bright light for numerous supporters worldwide. She is more than just a celebrity or social media influencer. Maine became someone’s daughter, friend, niece, granddaughter, tita, ninang, etc for each of us supporting her. Those are the gifts Maine gave us without her even knowing or noticing it at all. 

In #DearestMaine, we were able to show again to Maine how much we are grateful for her gifts as she embraces her purpose to touch lives. She heard those touching and powerful testimonies from strong-willed people who saw Maine as a source of inspiration to battle out against the challenges of life. She has now the book which holds all our stories, messages, and well-wishes for her. She accepts those gifts with a wide smile and thankful heart. Her impact is more than the quantitative data in Twitter engagements, sold-out magazines, endorsements, views in feature or news articles, TV ratings, and supporters lining up for her public events. Her impact is a permanent mark in each of our hearts and lives...and how we become a stronger and better person becomes our gift and impact for Maine. 

Describing the turn of events as happy is an understatement. I am elated and joyful seeing Maine being appreciated and accepted that way. She deserves so much love and care from those who genuinely do. 

Thank you to everyone who endlessly love and support Maine.

Let us all join her in her journey as she spreads her wings and flies farther.

Mahal ka namin Maine...at alam namin mahal mo rin kami. :)

[astorytellerforthatgirl]

Dearest Maine, You Are Our Beloved (3rd of the 4-Part Blog Series)

Now that you have an idea of what happened in #DearestMaine event, I would like to share now my observations of Maine that night. There’s too many notable moments that it’s difficult to compress it with my previous blog entry. So let’s go back to the events with the perspective focusing on Maine.

Maine surprised everyone as she enters the room very casually and giddily. As if she isn’t a mainstream local celebrity at all! Some of us met her before and others met her for the first time but everybody’s facial expression looks the same as if the words “ANDITO NA SI MAIIIINEEEE!!!!” were painted all over our faces. No one rushed to hugged her or took a selfie with Maine because: 1.) We were all so surprised since no one(not even I, as one of the co-host) notice she’s approaching the door of the room, and 2.) it’s dinner time. 

That shade of red looks good on her, I mean what she worn that night. It gave off an in-between-a-teenager-and-a-young-adult-vibe-on-her. What she first did when she arrived at Relish restaurant is to hug and play along with Matti as if she did not see her for months. Maine sure does missed her nephew, after all he’s a little ball of sunshine. As we were having our dinner, I notice the level of comfort Maine has with her family. It’s the first time I saw her with her parents and siblings. She even has Matti on her lap and offering him the sweets in the buffet. I know she has a soft spot for kids as I saw in pictures and videos of fan interaction, but to see it personally warmed my heart. Not everyone has that patience and affection for kids and it’s nice to see her to have that soft spot.

After dinner, the program started. We invited Maine to sit on the designated couch for her at the front. She received the bouquet of fully-bloomed yellow roses from one of the members of Maine Group of 18. She sat down and leaned on her right side. I suppose she did it to be more comfortable while she’s listening and watching. 

Mainewas intently listening to the flow of the program. There were times she would even randomly share her side comments. hahaha! Cutie Maine indeed. With every AVP, I noticed she has few kinds of smiles and delightful expressions. She has this wide smile (kita ngipin), shy smile, and smile of someone holding back her emotions. Maine isn’t the type to show huge emotions in front of everyone, being the introvert that she is. I like best when she paid close attention to the AVP about the messages of different contributors for the book project. Konting beses lang kasi siya kumurap noon. I can’t help but wonder that maybe this is how she is whenever her friend tells her about anything. 

One of the highlights of the events, the live testimonies, showed again more of Maine’s listening and caring attention. She did listen intently to each of them. Every testimoner got up on the front and they were standing literally few feet away from Maine. I understand their overwhelming emotions to stand there and they were speechless at first before they shared their story. Most of them have written or printed it on papers, probably so they won’t forgot everything they want to say to her. I admired their bravery to tell their stories of courage directly in front of Maine without completely losing focus at all. To be honest, if I were them, I won’t be able to finish everything telling my own life battles. I might even break down there out of overwhelming emotions. Maine listened to every testimoner and we encouraged them to have a photo opportunity with her. Nahihiya kasi sila lumapit pagkatapos nila magshare. They have a little chat with Maine and I saw them smiling and laughing, maybe Maine tried to make the mood lighter by telling them something to smile and laugh about. She even hugged each of them. That kind of hug with a back rub, as if reminding them to smile more than to cry in facing life’s challenges.

With the turnover of the book to Maine, I love her immediate reaction to it. She looks like a kid who just received a Christmas or birthday gift and she checks it at once. I saw her taking out the cover, peeping through that cover, opening the pages of the book, and smiling while scanning the pages.

True enough, she is delighted to have that book: a collection of our heart’s messages for her.  I hope that when she feels down, one way to make her feel better is to open that book to remind her of our endless love and relentless support.

During the messages given by Tatay Dub and Nanay Dub, I saw a sort of shy kind of Maine as her parents reaffirm their love and support for her. Thus, they are also thankful to each of us supporting Maine. It seems like I even saw Maine looking to the floor and looking back to her parents, like how a shy child is whenever she hears her parents talk about her to other people. Hahaha! Mga 7-yr old na little Maine siguro yun ganun gesture niya. 

When it’s her time to say her message, she even thought “Ano pa ba sasabihin ko? Parang nasabi ko na kasi lahat.” (non-verbatim). She thanked us again for the support we gave her. She said thank you for accepting her and she hopes this won’t have an expiration date. Syempre palakpakan lahat! Hahaha! It feels good to see Maine that she feels, knows, and acknowledges the love, care, and support from us. 

The program ended after that and the attendees took the chance to approach Maine. Different requests were given by Maine. I even heard some of the video greetings like “sa totoo lang, nababasa ko tweets mo sa akin”. Napaisip tuloy ako na baka lahat tayo nabasa na niya mga tweets. Fans are very creative too with where Maine signed like her book, magazine, their artworks, etc. One even asked on her jacket! If I were her, I might not wash that jacket again. hahaha! I also approached Maine and let her sign the copy of the program and I asked her if she remembered my promise about Palanca. She said yes and I showed her the receiving copy of my entries given by the Palanca Foundation. She held it for few seconds, smiled, and said to me “Goodluck!!” Maine does remember. Thanks too to my co-host as she said I was the one whom she mentioned in her blog. I did not say my name again but when I got back the copy of the program with her signature, I saw my nickname there. 

While all of these are happening, a duo sang in the background. Maine picked up the mic, listened to the song, and dropped the mic. I’m not sure but I think I heard her say “Hindi ko alam yun kanta” Maybe she’s in the mood to sing. Ano ba yan, bakit hindi ako humingi ng sample nun program mismo! Ano klaseng host ba ako!! hahaha! I regretted I didn’t thought of it. 

We saw Maine checking the decorations especially the porcelain dishes with her pictures on it. Almost everyone took pictures of her and it felt like she’s in the red carpet with different camera lights flashing. She gamely posed for the camera, much to our delight again. Then Matti came running to her, saying she left her bag. It was the yellow bag fan gift with customized design painted by @ArtsyBits, Maine took the bag and posed again with that bag that time around. The fan who made that bag is at the side with an all out smile. We told her she can take pictures beside Maine but she was shy at first. Many insisted and she went beside Maine to have her friends took picture with them. It was not only like an idol-fan interaction but a designer-model interaction too. 

Maine and her family and management team left the venue and I was there with the members of Maine Group of 18. I did not know what happened afterwards but I read in a Twitter thread that Maine even becomes so makulit as some fans wait for a ride going home. 

Maine is indeed very energetic and happy that night. I guess she’s more comfortable if there are less people in an event. #DearestMaine is one of the best and most memorable nights for me in my lifetime. I am humbled and grateful to be in that event.

Salamat ulit sa lahat, Maine! 

Thank you for reading part 3 of the blog series!

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Dearest Maine, Let’s Celebrate the Gift of Your Life (2nd of 4-Part Blog Series)

May 30, 2018 is the date set for #DearestMaine event at Relish restaurant. The program will start around 6:30pm. We have to be there earlier to take care of the details. Aside from this, I have to be hours earlier too to familiarize myself with the venue since i am one of the hosts. It helps in taking out the nervousness once you are at home with the venue before hosting the event proper itself.

I arrived there at around 5pm. The venue is a two-storey establishment. I told the staff the name of our contact person who booked the venue. Then he replied with, “Ah yun kay Maine po? Dito po kayo akyat.” I went up the stairs, maybe around 12-15 steps? I felt delighted upon seeing the venue but there are no one yet around but I heard voices inside a separate room. I knocked at the door and stepped inside. The other members of Maine Group of 18 are there, decorating the room, checking the technical system, and looking after all the details. I smiled at them and it felt like I just met respected colleagues from the same field of literature, linguistics, and creative writing. They all have warm smiles and I am more convinced that time Maine is indeed blessed to have supporters like them. I won’t divulge more description here about them to retain their mysterious anonymity.  

I went around the venue and marvel at the intimate and elegant set-up. The main function room is probably around 30-40 sq. m, good for maximum of 50 pax. The 9 tables were arranged close to each other that you may only walk around through the center aisle. You can call the attention of a friend sitting across on the other table and he’ll still hear you well. The centerpiece is a beautiful and elaborate centerpiece made up of hardbound books, laces, pearl-like beads, flowers, and scrabble tiles spelled with Dear Maine. At the back, fanarts of Maine as the subject were displayed as these were tied on to the LED one-colored Christmas lights. Also,the trio band were rehearsing there. The trio is composed of a professional keyboardist, cellist, and violinist.

At one side, artworks inspired by Maine are placed as if those are for art exhibit. At the other side, the porcelain plates attached on the walls are included in the Relish restaurant venue. What these creative members of the Maine of Group of 18 did was to turn those plates into a photo gallery. Various pictures of Maine from her social media posts and taken by her skilled supporters in photography brought more life to the decoration of the venue. At the right part of the front side, a white marble stand holds the copies of the Dear Maine:A Testament of Love, Happiness, and Miracles book while on the left side, there were the antique decorating items like the treasure chest box, circular intricate red carpet, lamp, and old telephone unit, figurines, and candle holders on a short glass-top table. Seeing the lounge chair where so close to attendees made me excited because supporters can see Maine that near. A bouquet of yellow roses was placed there too for her. Outside the function room is an extension of the venue wherein the Relish staff arranged the buffet catering and the set of cupcakes topped with strawberry which served as the birthday cake. 

As the clock tick nearing 7pm, more attendees were coming. I saw those creative people too behind the fan arts like @nimfasmacabitas and skilled official photographers like @tius_day and @shewishU who all love Maine. These photographers are some of those fans who capture different shots of Maine in her public events, barangay, and interaction with other fans. Their expertise is noticeable with the way their actions is familiar with their DSLR camera, as if those were extensions of their body.

The management team of Maine and the Mendoza family came around 6:30pm. I thought I’ll be shy saying Hi to them but their presence feels like they’re a family friend whom we personally know for years. That’s how down-to-earth the Mendoza family members are. 

I noticed a copy of the program printed out by Relish staff so I ask for a copy to practice the flow of hosting I’ll do with another member of Maine Group of 18 too. I went out of the function room to release all my nerves. I am used to speak in front of a crowd but I always have that nervous moments minutes before the event itself. 

Not long after, we got the cue to start the program by inviting the attendees to have their dinner. We were hyping up the mood of the event by interacting to the attendees and making them more excited for the event when suddenly....

A lady in crimson red giddily rushed inside the room, bent down to hug and play with Matti...and there I was silently stunned as my brain immediately processed and my heart recognized at once who she is.

Besh, di ako naorient nandyan na pala si Maine!!! KALOKA!!! HAHAHA!!! 

I don’t have time even just a jiffy to get my brain stuck while thinking what I’ll do next and looking at her. “Focus RJ, co-host ka dito, bawal mawala composure.”, I told myself. Good enough, it was my second time around to see Maine so I already knew the feeling rather than being overwhelmed on the spot as I am co-hosting the event. I realized more at that moment how casual and private this event is to see Maine more in her candid and outgoing character. It helped me lessen my nerves knowing the event isn’t very formal and I can do more of my makulit and kwela kind of hosting. The attendees took out their phones and captured photos and videos of Maine while their smiles are so wide I felt that for the whole year of 2018, they will not be sad again. Nakalimutan na nila kumain at wala na yata gusto kumain hahaha! So we reminded them they can now proceed to the buffet catering for the dinner. I told them “Bayad po yan, kakain tayo lahat!” hahaha! The attendees were serenaded by lovely sets of songs from the trio band. The way they played those songs soothed everyone. It gave an ambiance of a fine dining experience.

After the dinner, we started the program with a doxology from a talented duet. Then we thanked everyone and acknowledged the distinguished guests for the event. I want to commend her as my co-host for her composed aura and words of wisdom shared while explaining or commenting in the event. She gave the balance to my makulit and kwela hosting that night. She shared a glimpse of the book and how we, the Maine Group of 18 came together for this purpose. In the next part of the event,my co-host transitioned that Ma’am @fiddlerOc has sent an audio message about the background of the project. Again, let me reiterate that she is the one who thought of the coffee table project as a birthday gift for Maine from us, her supporters. She is living in another country with her family but the distance did not feel she was far with the heartwarming message she shared, especially for Maine.

The next portion of the event is a special AVP video made by a member of Maine Group of 18 from another country. The AVP has the “Success” poem of Ralph Waldo Emerson while screenshots, pictures, and videos for each line highlighted its significance. Here is the poem:

What is Success? To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty; To find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived; This is to have succeeded. - Ralph Waldo Emerson 

I am in awe as I was so amazed with how every second of the AVP became a storytelling in itself. For example, in the line “ To earn the appreciation of honest critics”, there were screenshots of tweets from the likes of respectable personalities like Sir Teddy Boy Locsin Jr. as he fanboy over Maine. It was an AVP less than 10 minutes but I witnessed a glimpse of how Maine evolved within nearly three years in showbiz industry.

What came next is the sharing moments of the live testimoners. This is one of my favorite part of the event, especially when I saw they shared their own experiences that night through a Twitter thread. Reading those threads from @imjessiebarrios @dearfriendcan @adopted_weasley and @ThinkingParrot made my heart lighter and warmer. Another testimoner is from a wise elder who also is a huge supporter of Maine.

That part of the event wherein they presented live testimonies felt like showing Maine an excerpt of the book. They were given time to tell Maine everything they want to say, most of them have prepared letters for her while they read the message. What was Maine’s reaction? Let me share about that more in the next part of this blog series. Everyone listened intently to each of their testimony. 

Different stories. Different backgrounds. I observed the similarities between the stories of the 5 testimoners and this was what I concluded:

They are like us too. They are like everyone else who experienced the challenges and pains in this life. At some extent, they were pushed beyond their limitations. They experienced the lowest points of their lives and even doubted themselves if they can live again with joy, passion, and enthusiasm. As they struggle to fight back and get back on track, they found out about Maine through different ways. (Aldub, dubsmash videos, etc) She has a certain pull of charisma wherein they found themselves looking forward to see more from her. They noticed slowly they were smiling, laughing, and embracing their lives again.

We may have our different reasons and stories but one thing is for sure....she has touched our lives.

In that moment, I heard again how Maine became a Bearer of Light.

The testimonies are so moving that you will be in awe how God orchestrated everything, that there are no coincidences, but rather His grace, will, and chosen time to send inspiration and motivation. 

For the last testimoner, @dearfriendcan is one of those who spearhead the ADN Scholarship Drive. She shared how initiatives from countless fans made it all possible most especially in challenging times. They meticulously choose their recipients as well and I am glad that one of the beneficiaries is with them that night. If you want to know more about their moments, you may visit their twitter profile or ask them to share the thread of their experiences in #DearestMaine

I am in awe witnessing all those moments that everyone of us were blown away. I know how much Maine and us, her supporters, love and care for each other. What I didn’t know is the magnitude of Maine’s influence and with God’s guidance, she touched lives, fans started initiatives and created friendships. 

Of course, since not everyone who contributed for the book project can attend the event, an AVP of their messages was presented. Fans from all ages and different parts of the world send their greetings to Maine, most are in video while the rest are in audio. There’s this kid in that AVP whom I can’t forget as she proudly showed in the video all the medals she received from her achievements in school and thanked Maine for the inspiration to study well. Again, I’m fighting back my tears for how the AVP moved me. 

For the last AVP presented, it was the preview of the Dear Maine: A Testament of Love, Happiness, and Miracle book. We saw a quick glance on the chapter highlights of the book for Maine to have an idea of its contents. 

If you saw the picture of Maine (courtesy of @tius_day) in dim lights and black and white filter effect from that event while looking somewhere and smiling, that’s the time she saw those AVPs.

Nearing the end of the event, the two copies of the books were turned over to Maine. Afterwards, Nanay Dub and Tatay Dub gave messages. They reiterated their gratitude for everyone of us as we continue to support Maine in thick or thin, and despite all her flaws and imperfections. Tatay Dub remembered how Maine is really used to do a lot of facial expressions since she’s younger. Little did they know it will be a way for her to be known, as he said. As for Maine, she thanked us all again for the acceptance, she hopes that our support has “no expiration”.

The event ended on a high note. Since the attendees is a small number, everyone was able to approach Maine, talk to her, have a selfie, asked for a video greeting, etc. Maine is very energetic and sobrang kulit at kwela that night. I forgot the times she mentioned she is an introvert. hahaha! I guess, she is more comfortable with a smaller group in an event? Well, that’s just my guess.

Before they leave Relish, Maine went closer to the porcelain plates with her pictures displayed. Of course, it was a chance for us to take more pictures of her into which she gamely posed and projected for the camera. 

May 30, 2018---One of the best moments of my life both as a believer of God and a supporter of Maine. I promised myself that moment will be one of the reminders how goodness can still prevail in a world dimming in chaos. The #DearestMaine event brought together people who believe in goodness and continue to live and embrace life in the best way we can.

Thank you again Maine Group of 18 for making it all possible!  @LiveGiveLive @fiddlerOc @lola_valeriana @MYRNS25 @0HunnyPot @earnestviewer @akosiliyann @sheisthecomet  @ndeicm @deivisuals @candey_waley @Mommies4Maine @reallyrabbit @wanderlust1222 @leezasm @offofunofficial @eun_caien @rj1421

Thank you for reading Part 2 of this Blog series!

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Dearest Maine, Here is Our Gift (1st of 4-part Blog Series)

Maine has been (and continues) to be a blessing and inspiration for all of us, her supporters, for the nearly 3 years she’s in showbiz. Each of us has our own ways of expressing our gratitude for her through ways we know like sending her messages via her social media accounts. 

It is not surprising for me to see fans throwing out different birthday celebrations for her spanning from March to May of this year. Each party carefully organized and painted wide smiles on Maine’s face. Truly, she is abundant with the support and love we all give as our way of saying thank you for the countless ways she makes us joyful.

Creative minds and wholehearted efforts were placed in every fans’ special gifts for Maine. Little did I know, another wonderful gift is about to be given to her with such an utmost love and sincere intentions. 

In this 4-part blog series, allow me to share how the Dear Maine coffee table book project and #DearestMaine event come into fruition. 

A Glimpse of the Book and Preparations of #DearestMaine

As early as February, I got an invitation from both Hope (@LIveGiveLive) and Ma’am Ochie (@fiddlerOC) to work with this possible book project for Maine. This book project is the brainchild of Ma’am Ochie as she knows Maine likes reading books and it would be lovely to give her a book from us, her fans. At first, I thought it would be like the journals given by publishing press of universities to their students. 

I thanked them for the invitation and it became the start of a great adventure. 

Along the way, I found out the invitation grows into rhe Maine Group of 18 and here we are: @LiveGiveLive @fiddlerOc @lola_valeriana @MYRNS25 @0HunnyPot @earnestviewer @akosiliyann @sheisthecomet  @ndeicm @deivisuals @candey_waley @Mommies4Maine @reallyrabbit @wanderlust1222 @leezasm @offofunofficial @eun_caien @rj1421 It amazes me, the 17 of them are closet fans and yet we were all able to share our ideas and brainstorm in the group DM for the project. 

The book will be the collection of different messages, be it in letters, poems, stories, or testimonies. Maine will have a physical copy of a book with her supporters’ messages. 

Imagine Maine reading a book....and inside that book includes your heartfelt personal message for her. 

Imagine Maine keeping that book...and whenever she feels down, she may think of opening that book to remind herself how much we love her.

Imagine Maine holding that book...and trying to hold back her tears out of so much gratitude and joy because the messages inside are from some people who did not give up on her.

And imagine how Maine could stop for minutes or hours to read, re-read, and smile while reading our messages or look in awe at the pictures and artworks.

The idea itself initially gave me goosebumps and I was just in awe. It is such a beautiful and sincere intention because first of all, this is another unique way to convey what our hearts would love to say for Maine. Secondly, the book project is open to everyone who loves Maine. Third, there is no specific format, meaning you can write in any unique way you wish.

I always believe that everything we do through letters, messages, or artworks hold a special meaning for us. 

I believe a part of our heart is within those creations made out of love, crafted with time, and made even more beautiful with efforts. 

It becomes more special if we already have a person or group of people to dedicate and give our creation...which in this case, is for That Girl, Maine.

Contributions were welcomed from anyone who delightfully wants to give her a message of hope and support for That Girl. At first we set a certain deadline but more contributions poured out in the [email protected] or DM requests. Hence, the need to move the deadline to accommodate all requests, as much as possible.

The response is overwhelming. Contributions came from all over the world, different ages, twitter handler, fan groups(even team no groups) filled up the initial draft. At first I thought it would only be around 80 pages but from the updates I read in our group DM, the book pages reached more than 200 pages. 

Hope told us most of the contributors requested anonymity and only Maine would get to read their messages because of personal matters. We understood it all, thus, we all decided to just make 2 copies: One for Maine, and one for her parents. We, the group of 18, don’t even have soft copies of our own.

I would love to dedicate this portion too for the 17 wonderful people I worked behind with this project. Our profession ranges and each has certain skills, knowledge, and time to complete and make the coffee table book a beautiful artwork. Layout artists, visual artists, writers by heart, familiarity of quality publishing press, financial management and expert, and so many more. I am impressed too because I see these magnificent people making time for the coffee book table such as checking it in the publishing press and giving updates of the developments. Mind you, I would even see an organized and polished excel file in our group DM about those updates. It felt like I am working with people experienced in handling event-related projects. I am simply blown away with the amount of dedication and effort each placed to it. Iba ka talaga Maine, We did discuss with one another without anyone asking for proof of identity because as what I mentioned earlier, the 17 of them are closet fans. The complete trust is there as we know each other for such a long time. For the Maine Group of 18, thank you so much for the privilege and honor to work with you. I am humbled.

Around the last week of April, we are almost finished with executing the plans for the book and we are just waiting for the printing to be done by May. So now, we focused on how do we give it to Maine.

The #DearestMaine event is the result of the decision as to how we will turn the book over to Maine. We want it to be a simple and private event in celebrating her Maine with our gift. 

I also would like to commend here how quick and composed these people whom I work with. Certain challenges arise and instead of panicking, I saw how each would suggest alternatives to our earlier plans (be it in the venue, decorations, technical aspects, schedule, etc). Again, they impressed me and I believe since day 1 I discussed with them, that this event will be successful.

We looked forward to May 30 with mixed emotions---excitement, nervousness, joy. I imagined different scenarios in my mind and all of which are beautiful...

But even the most creative scenario this storyteller thought of is nothing compared to everything that happened on the day itself of #DearestMaine...

Allow me to share the event on the next part of my blog entry based on my perspective. :) Thank you for reading this part 1 of the blog series!

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The Hero’s Journey of Maine Mendoza : An Analysis Using Joseph Campbell’s Monomyth Theory

We all know Maine is an inspiration to all of her supporters and even for people who are not her fans. She is a hero in her own special way. Analyzing how Maine becomes a hero is a subjective or opinionated approach for each fan.

However in this blog post, I will apply an existing theory to analyze how Maine can be deemed a hero. This is the “Monomyth theory” or “Hero’s Journey” formulated by Joseph Campbell. For a clearer explanation, here is a TEDed animation of this theory: 

To recall, there are different steps a hero undertakes in his or her journey namely status quo, call to adventure, assistance, departure, trials, approach, crisis, treasure, result, return, new life, resolution, and new status quo. You may disagree with me in some of the content and I do understand as we may have different interpretations. In the next section of this blog, I will draw a parallel in Maine’s career to each of these steps.

(Previous) Status Quo

Maine is an average young adult who graduated from college. She helps in the tasks of their family businesses. She just enjoys doing dubsmash videos to kill time out of her boredom.

Call to adventure

Maine becomes a viral online personality with her dubsmash videos. Her funny lipsynching and comedic facial expressions attracted online users to like, comment, and share her videos. She started to make a name for herself in the online world.

Assistance

Maine always have her family, friends, and loved ones to guide her in her everyday life. They are the core support system of Maine to help and remind her, as she slowly becomes known through her viral videos.

Departure

This is the audition in Eat Bulaga. This is the departure from her low-profiled lifestyle. Later on, she traverses showbiz industry all the way to the phenomenal star life she has now. This departure also provides the spot for Maine in the mainstream showbiz industry while she still shares online contents through her social media accounts.

Trials

As her popularity increases drastically, Maine faces trials. Bashers are nitpicking her every move and questioning her worth in the showbiz industry. Other negative elements I don’t want to further discuss keeps on indirectly dissing and dragging Maine down.

Approach

Maine stays true to herself. Her genuine character shows in every challenging situations such as speaking bravely her supportive stance for depression, working hard in every work commitment, and interacting warmly to fans.

Crisis

Maine wants to stay true to herself while some people continuously limits her inside a box. Last November 2017, she speak out her hearts’ desire despite knowing the possible consequences. She released the Open Letter in her blog. The immediate negative responses of other people took its toll on Maine as she tweeted with “You are all right. I deserve all the hate in the world because I am such a coward and a selfish little brat. I get it and I understand..” To date, this is the most challenging point in her career and can be considered a crisis. Her one month hiatus is the longest crisis for her supporters.

Treasure

Contrary to fictional heroes who found the treasure in new powers, skills, or weapons, Maine has a different treasure. Her core support system (family, friends, and loved ones) resonate their care for Maine. True fans stays by her side and a new wave of support from different people whether new fans or casual observers are additional treasures to her core support system.

Result

What her detractors thought as her downfall through the Open Letter full of truth, it becomes the springboard for Maine to slowly spread her wings and fly. She slowly regains back her focus and comes back on track. The truth from Maine’s Open Letter hurts others but it definitely sets her free.

Return

Maine returns after a one-month long hiatus. She has a lighter, more free-spirited, and cheerful aura. Companies continue to trust her as their endorser and she gets new endorsements including Mac Cosmetics. Fans become more expressive in showing their support including the 6 extravagant birthday parties organized for her by different fan groups.

New Life

She keeps her values of staying true to herself despite of all the challenges she went through. The smear campaign worsens after her return but she does not mind these irrelevant ones anymore and focuses on things that truly matter.

Resolution

Maine embraces more her flaws and rekindles her passion and intentions. She posts more encouraging social media messages, she retweets those who needs medical assistance, she manages an online auction of her pre-loved items as proceeds go to a champion cause, and recently she launches Humans of Barangay.

New Status Quo

Maine is more than the average young adult slash dubsmash online personality from the beginning of this journey. She is the phenomenal star with a newfound purpose. She accomplishes those tasks related to her purpose through the same way, which is online, as to how she was discovered before.

To end this blog post, I would love to share (The Queen) Lea Salonga’s timeless rendition of Hercules theme song “Go the Distance” from LSFP Youtube channel as this is appropriate for Maine’s heart as a dreamer before she started her own Hero’s Journey. 

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Maine Mendoza and her Diverse but Unified Supporters (Blog Entry#7 of 7)

#EnchantressMaine23 is a successful birthday party organized by Solid Maine Fans. Everyone were happy as we celebrated with Maine. It was such a wonderful banquet-like party for the royal enchantress as she turned 23. It was a bonus to see a different side of Maine that night—a glimpse of her vulnerable self as she thanked everyone who continues to support her and explained she only said the “sampu” so she won’t get hurt if one by one her supporters leave. She thanked all her fans in advance for the support and love we will give her in her future endeavors.

Opening the Party for Everyone

This is an announced birthday bash for Maine wherein the organizers opened it for everyone. For as long as you love Maine, you are welcome to join the party. The organizers made me remember the Hufflepuff house in Harry Potter. A glimpse background of the reference I used: Hufflepuff is like a class section in the school of Hogwarts. In Hogwarts, students are classified into houses (class sections) by the magical sorted hat based on their personality. The founder of Hufflepuff namely Helga Hufflepuff welcomed everyone in their house (class sections) for as long as they want to learn in Hogwarts. Unlike the other three houses wherein the Gryffindor wants brave ones, Slytherin lets ambitious ones join, and Ravenclaw allows wise ones to be a part of them. Oh, Hufflepuff’s symbol uses color yellow, very reminiscent of Maine’s favorite color. 

#EnchantressMaine23 opened the party for everyone who love Maine especially those who really wish to see her but do not exactly know how. The main goal is to let more people celebrate with Maine too...exclusively for the pure love and sincere support for Maine.

We all know the result of the #EnchantressMaine23. To be honest, even I have already written in details everything I remembered that night in this 7-part blog series. it will never be enough to exactly describe how I truly felt that night. Overwhelming is an understatement.

Challenges and Risks

I am…well scratch that, I was a silent fangirl of Maine before. As a silent fangirl, it heightened my senses to observe the different factions of Maine by their words, tone, stylistics, and consistency of how they use these three. Some factions tend to clash with one another due to their differences and heated arguments. At some point, it becomes personal because they don’t stay to the topic of their discussion or argument. They sometimes uses ad hominem with those personal and offensive remarks. Well, what’s new? Coming from different fandoms since 2010, some keyboard warriors are too brave in a wrong way. People tend to argue rather than listen. These clashes are common too in different platforms such as in politically-affiliated support. The cycle needs to stop.

Because of this sad fact happening online, there are indeed huge challenges and risks that the organizers faced in allowing anyone to join the party. Ill-mannered and malicious people questioned their intentions and even accused them this party is a scam. I am aware of the aftermath. I heard right from the horses’ mouth that several fans demanded for a refund. The organizers need to work double time for this backlash. However, as what I always say, the Universe always reward pure hearts. God knows the sincere intentions of these organizers. Generous anonymous sponsors pledged for the remaining expenses. A huge portion of those expenses could have already been settled if those useless and baseless allegations against the organizers did not happen. The sadder fact is because of those accusations, many fans who have already paid and asked for a refund, were all robbed out of the chances to see Maine as an Enthralling Enchantress that night. For all I know, if only the organizers themselves can pay for everything, they will do so. The entrance ticket is nothing compared to the tons of magazines, product purchases, fares going to places where Maine is, etc for that exclusive party in a 4-star hotel. Also, the committee members and organizers wholeheartedly dedicated their time and effort for this party, out of love and support for Maine. In addition to this first issue, another wave of malicious issues were pelted out against the organizers because some accused they invited a guy which some people linked to Maine. Common sense…would someone who care and truly love Maine do something that will drag her down? Why do people allow themselves to be gullible with what they just heard? Yes, I am stern now in my tone because I am challenging everyone of us to guard our heart, discern, think, and decide with both our heart and mind.

I, myself, was hurt with these challenges. I saw how the organizers and committee members handled meticulously the details of the party. Never did they deserve this treatment. But yup, God let this to happen and I believe one purpose is to test the organizers and committee members how determined they are in pushing through with the event. I am more than proud of all their efforts, dedication, and hardwork. 

How It All Paid Off

The following day after the event, I saw different accounts sharing the video wherein Maine shared her personal message for everyone of us. When I said us, not only those who are in the party, but those who truly care and love her after everything that happened. She hold back her tears and make a lighter mood out of it. I do understand Maine does not want us to see her tears. One of my favorite twitter handler, another Solid Maine Fan, analyzed that maybe…just maybe, Maine was teary-eyed in that personal message because she wasn’t familiar with the people who have attended the #EnchantressMaine23. Majority are Team No Group who even rarely shows up in her exclusive parties. The timing also added significance because aside from the remaining Aldub fans who love her and the Solid Maine United, who for me is the closest refuge fan group of Maine, here is a party made up of different fan factions. Most of us who attended that party are not even affiliated with any fan group at all. 

To see these people who are proudly vouching our support and care for Maine might appear to be surreal and unbelievable for Maine. We know how ruthless the online smear campaign against Maine, the once fanatic supporters who are now her bashers, and other painful transitions after she released the Open Letter. Maine’s Open Letter is like Pandora’s Box that let go of the evil. On a brighter note, the Pandora’s Box also allowed Hope to spread around the world. Yes, Hope in the forms of newly-found support from once silent fangirls (like me!), casual observers, and more appreciation from those who claimed they are not a fan but they do respect and admire Maine for her authenticity. Maine as a Bearer of Light triumphantly overcame all these challenges as she continues her showbiz journey. I believe God rewarded Maine after she passed the forging process brought by the Open Letter. This new wave of support is louder, more sincere, and more relentless in protecting and taking care of Maine. Grabe ka Maine, ako nga nanahimik sa gilid-gilid, biglang napatweet at blog vocally sa’yo. I truly believe other fans show their support and love for Maine in distinct and special ways we know. Yes, you are That Girl we will continuously rally our support because in one way or another, you are now like a daughter, little sister, ate, niece, tita, ninang, mars, kumare, bestie, beshywap, frenny, etc to each one of us. 

A Promising Potential: Complete Unity

#EnchantressMaine23 proved we can work together. Our diversity is not meant for us to be divided but for us to collaborate, share, and cooperate. We can embrace each other’s strengths and weaknesses as we support one another. Eliminate the negative. Accentuate the positive. Just like Maine becoming a gamechanger, her supporters can be gamechangers too by showing this unity. Conflicts just happened because of the fear, hatred, stereotypes, prejudices, and indifference, We can all throw it away and be united as one. Imagine what else can we do if we are one? I believe not only parties can be organized for Maine with this newfound complete unity, if we consistently sustain it all together.

Guys, are you up for the challenge? Are you ready to listen more? Are you ready to find the compromise? Are you willing to reach out? Are you prepared to apologize first for miscommunications? This will not be easy but I am telling you it is possible. If #EnchantressMaine23 showed this promising potential, then imagine more what will happen once we embrace these possibilities.

In our common ground of supporting Maine, we solidified our distinct diversity. 

In our diversity, we found our unity.

As soon as we find our complete unity, we will be a force to reckon with.

Thank you for reading parts 1 to 7 of my blog series. :D God bless you all guys!

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Maine Mendoza and Her Enthralling Enchantress Moments last 3.14 (Blog Entry #6 of 7)

With all the previous blog entries I have written for this 7-part blog series, this one, I bet, will be your favorite. As much as I want to describe and narrate Maine in details during #EnchantressMaine23 in part 1, I decided she deserves a lone and separate blog entry dedicated for her moments from that special event.

All superlative adjectives may have already used to describe Maine by her fans, casual observers, colleagues in showbiz industry, credible writers, and respected personalities from other fields. They used those adjectives too even in the past birthday parties prepared by fans for Maine, 

For all the moments I saw Maine in #EnchantressMaine23, I will use enthralling to describe her enchantress-like moment. Enchantress means a woman possessing magical powers. In some context, it is used to describe a beautiful woman captivating people’s heart as if an unexplained magic just happened. Enthralling means fascinating and captivating. 

It is a good thing I am aware I will see Maine. At least I know how to prepare myself. Na-orient ako kung baga. I just got my dinner plate from the buffet and I haven’t even yet got back to my seat when people crowded the main entrance of the venue. They were all smiling and putting their phones up. Some in video mode while others in photo mode. In just seconds, I heard them all adorably saying, “Maine!!!” I was heading back to my seat with the dinner plate on my hand when I turned towards the direction where I heard them calling the celebrant’s name. She wore a gorgeous yellow silky gown with black details in a free-flowing cut design. I know nothing about make-up so I tapped a friend’s help who is adept with beauty essentials: ”High-raised bun with fringed full bangs. Eyeshadow, a mix of grey and black smokey eyes with a hint of brown. A basic thin lined eyeliner, not too overpowering but emphasizes her long false eyelashes and the shine in her colored eyes. V-shaped mauve pink blush on that emphasizes her cheekbones and mauve pink lipstick. Overall, her makeup is a mix of basic to doll up. In between, not too thick to cover everything but not too thin to not emphasize her features.” Maine is stunningly beautiful that night. She fascinated everyone with her enchanting charm. I was surprised for a while and as Maine slowly walked from the main entrance to the red carpet. I briskly walked back to my seat, put down my plates, and stood there to see her closely. Table #5 is where I sat and the red carpet is just on my right side 2-3 feet away.  She walked graciously as she waved to everyone. Her other hand held her gown for her to avoid tipping over. Maine took her time walking towards the stage, took the steps, and sat on the couch. Official photographers approached Maine, arranged her gown by spreading it, and let Maine posed for the camera. With numerous magazine covers and other photoshoots, she is so familiar with how to project for the camera. Maine clasped her wrists together, opened her palm as if forming a bud in her hands, and placed it below her chin. She looked like a doll, a princess, and a personified sunflower that moment.

Maine was so immersed with every moment in that party as I saw her reactions. Her laughter is one of the best reactions for me. Her eyes became small as she laughs, it’s as if you can just draw a single line if you sketch her facial features. She laughed heartily too as she opened her lips wide to let those laughter come out freely. Maine listened intently and sang along to the different songs and with every performer that night. I would love to hear more of her jazzy voice soon not just with few lines but through albums, digital streaming, singles, music videos, and concerts. She reacted too with every funny antic of the hosts. I like Maine’s rapport with Oreo, she really trust him enough as shown with her comfortable body language towards him.

I witnessed more of Maine’s appreciative and grateful heart in some of the magical moments that night. She felt at ease as the organizers and committee members sang “I Can”. Maine sang along in the chorus while she smiled at everyone and looked at the projector screen. It was a trip down memory lane for me seeing that AVP with their pictures together with Maine. I sensed familiarity and comfort between them.  She marveled at both the edible cakes and the projector cake. She even uploaded that projector cake in her IG stories. Maine’s connection to fans is special as well. Aside from hugging and holding the hands of Singing Angels Quartet, she hugged elderlies too in the photo opportunity per table. Her expressive eyes showed she truly care for her supporters and Maine has a soft spot for us.

I saw her childlike heart more when she gave the heartfelt message. Everything is so surreal for Maine. She admitted it is still unbelievable, despite being nearly three years in the industry. She kept on thanking all of us for the support we gave for the continuous support we will always give. When she said that the only reason why she said sampu is to prepare herself if one by one, her supporters leave, it will not be that painful. Her voiced cracked a little, tears were slowly glistening in her eyes, and she stopped for few seconds. That is the closest moment I personally saw her in that glimpse of her vulnerability. Afterwards, she changed the mood by childishly saying no she won’t cry. She then twirled around and sat on the floor as her gown spread. In that position, Jester placed Oreo beside Maine and said, “Oh Beauty and the Beast!” Maine laughed heartily again. I understand in a way why she does not want to cry. It is truly heartwarming to see Maine in that shift of vulnerability to laughter.

Even when Maine left the venue, she waved at us and smiled. She were saying some words but I wasn’t able to hear clearly because she doesn’t had a mic. That 3.14 is indeed a cut above the rest from all the recent memories I have in my life.

I do hope and pray Maine will always be an enthralling enchantress. May that magic in her heart, and her childlike personality overflowing with love and gratitude, nurtures more as she traverses in this journey we all call Life.

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Maine Mendoza and This Storyteller’s Three Fulfilled Dreams (Blog Entry #5 of 7)

As I write this blog entry, I want to remind you guys this will be my most personal blog entry yet. I will let you delve in my heart. I will let you have a glimpse of the heart of the storyteller as I narrate the whole experience I have as a storyteller and supporter of Maine in that night of 3.14 or #EnchantressMaine23. If you have already read blog entry #1 of this series, this special blog entry will be more detailed, elaborate, and specific but it is limited to that short but memorable encounter.

Who is Maine, by the way, for me?

For me to be able to give you an understanding as to why I respect and care for Maine this much, let me share first a glimpse of who she is for me. I saw Maine first in her viral dubsmash videos but I did not remember her name yet at that time. Her Yaya Dub days made me remember her name I tend to forget about her right after watching Eat Bulaga. One day during still in Pre-Tamang Panahon era, I was just curious about her and did a simple online profiling upon her. I stumbled about her blog. One of my passion is creative writing. I am very picky when it comes to reading blogs. I don’t like those who always discuss about romance as if it’s the only important thing. I don’t like also those romanticizing sensitive issues such as depression. I don’t finish a paragraph if the blogger tends to write as he or she craves for online attention. There I was, reading Maine’s blog with my critical lens scanning through her words. Within minutes, I found myself reading more of her entries. Maine has a knack for writing. Her tone, stylistics, choice of words, and heart in her own version of storytelling made me her fan that moment. I stayed as a silent fangirl from that time until she released her talked-about Open Letter. I become a vocal supporter in January of 2018, and here I am now, writing my blog entries about her. I even separated a fangirl Tumblr account for her, aside from my personal blog. This is how Maine gained my respect and admired her.

I said I respect and care for Maine. Why do I care for her? This person knows nothing about me at all but how did I end up caring for her? Let me just say I am proud to have these battle scars which I got from the darkest days I experienced. God is just so good to surround me with people who loves and cares for me, hence, I was able to fight back again. God knows my heart too and He always uses people whom He know I will listen to. Family, friends I trust with my life, and volleyball kids I treat more than little sisters—they are the constant instruments God used to remind me especially when I choose to be stubborn. The more I isolate and freeze my heart, the more God surrounds me with these people. Little did I know God would send Maine too to ignite hope in my heart. It was in December 2017 that I read her words:

Things may go from bad to worse and you might feel like it’s never going to change, but believe me when I say it will get better. Everything will be all right, I promise you. We may have our own different battles, but remember there is only one God. He is always looking down on us wherever we go and whatever obstacle we face. You may currently be in a lot of pain, but you never know what God has in store for your future. Marami pang magagandang bagay ang mangyayari sa buhay mo. Magtiwala ka. Kapit lang, laban lang. P.S.  If you are looking for a sign on whether you should still hold on or give up, this is it. Hold on tight, my dear. Don’t you ever give up; never ever give up.  “When you feel like giving up, just remember the reason why you held on for so long.“

The cascading effect of the Open Letter and reading that excerpt from her book made me see Maine more than a celebrity but it feels she becomes a college best friend for me. These two events encouraged me to be vocal of supporting Maine in my own way as a Team No Group and as a storyteller. Maine deserves to feel higit pa tayo sa sampu nagstay para sa kanya. God stirred my heart with her story and my passion for creative writing compelled me to start this blog.

How did I prepare for 3.14?

It was really I who volunteered to do that performance in #EnchantressMaine23. I felt God wanted to use me as one of the numerous supporters to remind Maine of some things she may tend to forget or she may not believe at all. I prayed only the words God will allow that I will able to speak in that party. Aside from creative writing, I also have a passion for public speaking. I was still hesitating that time if I can do it but as days passed, the words are filling up my outline. I don’t write down my draft for a public speaking stint but I just write the outline to freely express myself more than strictly following a script. I prepared a two-part for 3.14. For the first part, I wrote a flash fiction. For the second part, I wrote a personal message for my co-fans of Maine, family of Maine, and for Maine herself. This will be my birthday gift for her—to give a piece of my storytelling as I combine both creative writing and public speaking in it.

What happened last 3.14?

The organizers asked me if I am the one who will perform too. I checked the tech team and asked for a wireless mic. I do not know the program of the event. I told myself that anytime I’ll be called, I must be ready. Oreo and Jester called my name as the next one who’ll perform. I told the hosts I’ll do a storytelling and a pep talk.

As I grabbed the mic, I told the audience these will be in two parts. I stood at the left part down the stage. That’s the right side of Maine. I began the part one.

I narrated that long-time ago in another dimension, a princess was born. I do not remember exactly how I delivered it but I will share the gist of the flash fiction. The princess very shy and she does not know how to use her magical powers. Others decided to use their own powers for healing or protecting the kingdom. One day, this princess decided to use her magical powers to what she loves most—making people happy. Slowly, people like merchants , commoners, royalties, warriors, nobleman, craftsmen, scribes, and everyone from all walks of life admire and respect this princess. Even people from other kingdoms know and respect her too. They showed their support for her. Not long after, she is overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. In one of her prayers, she said “Lord, if it is not much to ask, in my next lifetime, allow me to continue making people happy.” God was so touched with her prayers that she reincarnated last March 3, 1995. I paused and smiled at Maine in that time. I turned to the audience, smiled, and said “We all know who she is now.” I cleared my throat and made my voice louder with my ending line: “Long live Princess Nicomaine Dei, beloved by the people of this kingdom!” I saw Maine’s timid smile at that moment.

For the second part which I did the pep talk, I first introduced myself to Maine as a silent fangirl who become vocal after the Open Letter and shamelessly plugged my fangirl blog for her. Hahaha! I told the audience to close their eyes and remember all the great moments about Maine. Was it her Yaya Dub days? Was it their personal encounter with her? Was it her funny antics? Was it her motivational words posted in her social media accounts or her book? Afterwards, I told them to open their eyes and asked them how did they feel. I even pointed the mic to the audience into which the mic picked up the word “Happy!!!!” (yes with exclamation points). I told them that is how we should always feel whenever we fangirl over Maine. We will stay happy whatever happens. I reminded them that everything we do will reflect back to Maine hence we need to be objective and sensible. I commended the fans too as they stayed supporting Maine after all that happened. I challenged them that more people should be happy too by sharing our blessings and helping others. Pay it forward. I reiterated we keep on supporting Maine. For the Mendoza family, I thanked them first and mentioned their names, Sir Teddy, Ma’am Mary Ann, Ms. Nicolette, Ms. Coleen, Sir Nikko, and Sir Dean. Since they sat on the other side, I slowly walked near them. From the left side of the stage, I slowly walked to the right side. I could see the Mendoza family nearer. I first gave a message for the parents of Maine. I said more than the education, money, and business any parent can give for their children, it is always more important to raise them up as a good person fearing God. That is what they exactly have done to their children, and most especially with how we see in Maine. I shared that seeing Maine doing mano to elders warms my heart. Also, it’s nice to see her folding clothes in an  episode of Sugod Bahay. Maine is a daughter of a Class B family and seeing her doing household chores speaks not just of her character but by how her parents brought her up. In this life, as I told them, there are two ways to follow God’s will: (a) be obedient in His word, and (b) raise children who will follow God’s will. I congratulated Maine’s parents as they successfully did both. For Maine’s siblings, I thanked them for being cheerleaders for Maine. It is great to see how open they are with each other especially how they bond even over funny things. Again, I thanked the Mendoza family.

I turned to Maine and smiled at her as if I want to annoy her. Hahaha! I asked, “Maine, pwede ba kita paiyakin?” That is the closest distance in that time between us as I do the pep talk. My estimate is around 4-5 ft. I can see her eyes. I can see her aura clearer in that proximity. Maine replied with, “Sige try mo.” in a voice similar to the tone of “Sure ka ba teh?” hahaha! It was as if a childish banter just happened with that short exchange. I began my pep talk to Maine by saying I will only say three points. First point was it became a running joke among us who is the only 10 fans whom Maine said? No one among us would want to give up that spot as a fan of Maine. It even became a little battle cry with that tagline from the mini-banner with “Isa Ako Sa Sampu”. I proceeded with saying I have a suggested how we can solve that matter. I asked her to place her right hand over her chest where she feels her heart. Maine, in her natural comedic core, said she cannot feel her heart. Hahaha! She looked for her heart in her pulse, neck, back, shoulders, etc. She then placed her hand again over her heart. “Maine, bilang ka ng sampung heartbeat. From now on, yun pang sampung tibok ng puso mo, kaming mga fans mo yun. This time I am sure kasya na kami dyan kasi malaki ang puso mo.” (non-verbatim) I said this with much tender and softness in my tone, as if I see one of my kids/little sisters-like in her. I did not know how Maine processed what I said but she become more serious compared to the comedic Maine I saw minutes ago. “In return, we will also allot our 10th heartbeat as a reminder this is you in our heart. Pag namimiss mo kami tapos private yun event or work mo, hanapin mo lang kami na 10th heartbeat mo. Kasama mo kami palagi as we pray and support you.” (non-verbatim) Second point, I told her just like the song Defying Gravity, may she continue to soar and spread her wings. The entire world is the journey for her passion. I reminded her she traveled to different countries that are work-related for her commitments in the entertainment industry. “Continue being a game changer Maine. Shatter standards. Nullify norms. Exceed expectations.” (non-verbatim) For the third and last point, I began with “Di ba Maine, sabi mo ano ba talaga meron sa’yo?  Ano bang ginagawa mo? May sagot ako dyan.” I paused for a while. Take a quick breath, and said “Maine, naging Bearer of Light ka.” She was looking at me too as she intently listened and reacted. Yes, for several times, I bravely looked in her eyes, this writer wants to strongly relay God’s reminders for Maine through me that’s why I looked at her eyes in some parts of my pep talk. Light as I told Maine, is the metaphor or symbolism for everything good like life, hope, positivity, encouragement, inspiration, grit, enthusiasm, encouragement, passion, faith in God, etc. For us to be a bearer of light, we need to have a discerning mind, compassionate heart, and faith in God. I told Maine too that we live now in dark times where bad things happen, all the more that people should accept the role of a Bearer of Light. “Kaya salamat Maine na hindi mo lang tinanggap pero niyakap mo pa ang pagiging Bearer of Light” (non-verbatim) I said I always pray may Maine turn into actions every good intentions she feel because that is a stirring of God telling her to do His will. I reminded her the effect of that RT she did to Jessie and the scholarship drive of Aldub fans. Her influence is so vast that whatever she do, more people will notice. I said I am proud of her because I can see she is happier and more free recently. May she continue to always stick to her principles, and as what she said before, values is the thing she will never compromise. I thanked Maine that she is one of God’s instruments to us, her fans, as we slowly learn to embrace our own light too. I told her one day if I reach to that destination, I will never forget to thank her too as part of my journey. In one part of my pep talk within the third point, I had the most unforgettable eye contact with Maine as I keep on emphasizing the message. I saw her eyes glistened with tears. She looked away from my eyes and looked at the floor, but she did not turned her head down. She kept on listening to me while nodding her head. I understand she does not want to cry. I do. Again in that moment, I felt I’m talking to one of my precious kids. I knew at that moment, she understood more what I said. Did I overwhelm her with my choice of words? I do not know. What I do hope is she always remembers the message and not me. Nevermind me because the message is more important for me to Maine to remember than me, the messenger/storyteller. For my last few lines, I asked her if I could hold her hand. She answered with a nod. I went up the stage, stood beside her, took off my eyeglass, held her hand with my right hand, and said: “Maraming salamat sa lahat Maine. Ibabalik ko na ngayon ang liwanag na kinuha ko mula sa’yo.” I smiled, let go of her hand, and greeted her Happy Birthday and Godbless. I turned to the audience, waved at them, and told them to enjoy celebrating Maine’s birthday. “Godbless you all guys!”, these are my parting words. I was rushing to go back to my seat because I know I exceeded my promised time. The official photographers told me though to sit beside Maine as they will take pictures of us. I told her “Maine, alam mo yun Palanca?” She said “Hindi eh.” I told her straight, “Papaalam ko na lalaban kita sa Palanca na ikaw yun bida. That is an elite competition for literary and creative writers.” I asked for a selfie into which she smiled elegantly. Lastly, I asked for a hug, she did hug me. The photographers took pictures of us. I said thank you again and I rushed back to my seat. In that performance, three of my dreams come true: a storyteller, a public speaker, and to see Maine personally.

What is the aftermath?

I realized I was able to do what I want to say to Maine like what I have written in my first blog entry entitled "Bearer of Light” about her.

“And I wish one day, when fate smiles upon this random storyteller and the universe conspires with me, I can smile personally at you, look into your expressive eyes, and say with a cracked voice but a convincing tone: “Maraming salamat sa lahat Maine, ibabalik ko na yun liwanag na binigay mo sa akin.”

Although I changed few words, the message remains the same. It happened and came true. God allowed it to happen. Bless His name for His profound plans and ways.

I have to be honest I do not know how I was able to do all of those things. I did not feel scared or shy that moment. It felt God gave me a preview of how does it feel like to deliver a public speaking to an audience with an influential personality listening to me. It is another passion He revived in my heart. No other than Maine did God used to remind me to continue sharing what I love doing. From all the personalities I fangirled over, so far it is only Maine whom I shared both my creative writing and public speaking.

Three fulfilled dreams of this storyteller—all happened in one moment with one of the Bearers of Light I genuinely care for. I am humbled and grateful to God for this experience.

Thank you so much Maine. May God continue to let you shine on a wider galaxy as your light radiate in this universe.

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Maine Mendoza and the Generous Fans Going Extra Mile (#Blog Entry 4 of 7)

#EnchantressMaine23 or 3.14 made me a fortunate fan as I finally see Maine personally for the first time. In this blog entry, I would love to dedicate this to the Maine fans who also made feel blessed because of their generosity. For me, they went extra mile just to help another fan as if they treated them as friends or family members.

For Mam Nancy…Since Maine launched her book “Yup, I Am That Girl”, I had a hard time looking for her book in bookstores nearby or even in Metro Manila. I kinda feel whenever I am searching for any item in malls or other establishments, it is out of stock. I want to have Maine’s book because it was her writer side that made me her fan after I read an entry in her blog. Frustration built up on as months passed by since the launching and I still don’t have the book. I resorted to asking in Twitter if they know other bookstores who currently have stocks of Maine’s autobiography. In a day, fans gave me exact branches of different bookstores across Metro Manila, Rizal, and even in Laguna and Bulacan. Majority of their responses is the convenient store located in Broadway Centrum. Another fan of Maine replied she has extra copies and she is willing to give me one. First, a free Microsoft RT surface tablet with detachable keyboard was given to me as a gift by a fan of Maine. Now this, her book for free. I was so touched with the gesture. I sent Mam Nancy a DM that I want to meet her too to see her personally. She agreed. She’s working in Makati and suggested we can have a lunch in a nearby mall. I set the date to March 14. I met her and we lunched out. Mam Nancy, from how I felt she is, is an established woman in her career. The way she talks and her body language too makes it feel she is a supportive and open mom to her child. We talked a lot about Maine in that lunch. We were laughing with the random funny antics of Maine that we remembered. Like me, Maine is the first Pinoy celebrity Mam Nancy fangirled. Before Maine, I’m more inclined to fangirling over athletes, cosplayers, journalists, and writers. For Mam Nancy, her interest is more on books. She even tells me she and her daughter shares the Harry Potter series they have at home. Maine suddenly became the first Pinoy mainstream celebrity we fangirled over. She handed a paper bag to me. I brought out the book and to my surprise, she added a Preview Magazine issue of Maine. I thanked her again for her kindness. I felt my eyes sparkled as I finally have the copy of Maine’s book and a bonus of her magazine. I really like talking to Mam Nancy as if I am one of her favorite nieces. Hahaha! I would love to see her again given the chance.

For the organizers and committee members in #EnchantressMaine23...You have taken care of all the details of the event such as (a) booking the venue, (b) contacting caterers, videographers, photographers, band, technical team, etc., (c) replying to inquiries of the attendees, (d) providing security, (e) arranging schedule from Maine’s hectic commitments through her management, (f) brainstorming for the theme, and (g) checking all the elements in an event such as food, stage, and aesthetics, etc. It is out of your pure love and support for Maine that you are motivated to do these efforts. I know some challenges you have gone through as you are preparing for this event. Let me say it straight out now for those who have questioned your intentions, this is a legit party and not a scam and no guy other people are linking to Maine is invited in this event. I feel so bad and hurt when I read those online because they do not have a single idea as to all the hardwork and effort you poured out in this event. I am proud of everything you have done from start to finish. Even during the party, you are hands-on to whenever someone asks or needs your help. You are a bit anxious as you want to make sure everything will push through according to plans. I remembered all of you have only eaten after almost everyone left to head home. I feel like that’s almost past 10pm. You gave your all for #EnchantressMaine23. Thank you also for allowing fan

 All your efforts paid off because for me, Maine truly enjoyed that birthday party thrown for her. She is a princess in that celebration. The only thing I can do to show my gratitude is to write it all down here in my blog entry. Thank you so much again!

For the sponsors…First of all, thank you again to the committee member and fan who sponsored me for that event. If it wasn’t for you, I will never be able to attend that event. After I posted the fervent wish of Singing Angels Quartet, she replied they will contact them. Few minutes after, she sent me a DM and said if I want to come too. As I was still hesitating with the entrance and how I’ll commute late at night, she said she will sponsor me. For commuting after the event, she said she can ask someone who will let me hitchhike until Ortigas. I thanked her for understanding me. That moment I asked permission too if I can do something in the program. She immediately agreed. If you are reading this, thank you again and again for everything in 3.14. I owe it to you. Second, thank you for the sponsors who reached out to the Singing Angels Quartet. Out of the generosity of your heart, you helped them fulfilled their wish to see Maine. Lastly, Oreo and Jester, thanked sponsors at the end of the program but they are all anonymous. Thank you to all of you who extended support for the #EnchantressMaine23, whoever you are.

For the Maine fan group who let me hitchhike…Thank you for letting me hitchhike in your car. I was so lucky that your destination is within an area I am very much familiar and nearer to our home. I enjoyed your company as you share your fangirl moments too with Maine. You were all laughing out loud too as how you formed your fan group. It is touching to see a friendship solidified out of fangirling for Maine.   

May God be the One to give back all the generosity and goodness you have done. Thank you again!

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Maine Mendoza and the Singing Angels Quartet (#Blog Entry 3 of 7)

The #EnchantressMaine23 celebrated another fruitful year in Maine’s blessed life. Aside from seeing Maine personally, I anticipated too meeting the Singing Angels Quartet. I know it will be special to have them too in the birthday bash for Maine in Winford Hotel.

How did I know about them first?

After I become very vocal in Twitter about my support for Maine, I started to interact with other fans. I followed more accounts who love Maine too. Through them, I read about the “Yup, I Am A Solid Maine Fan” (YIASM) invitation for the party. I even called it as piging (feast) for Maine. One morning in February, I read a notification in Twitter about the Singing Angels Quartet. They posted in a Facebook group of fans they want to see Maine personally. A fan in Twitter screenshot it and asked for other fans helped to make it possible. Another fan tagged me and other supporters to spread it further. I do not know who to contact so I just quote tweet that. Then, I tweeted I hope they know the organizers of the piging for Maine to fulfill this wish of the Singing Angels Quartet. Within hours, one of those handling the YIASM event replied to my tweet and said they will contact them. Another fan replied she is willing to sponsor the Singing Angels Quartet for the event. Thank you for all the generosity and online bayanihan in making it possible.

How was meeting them?

While waiting for the program to start, I asked other fans in table #5 where I was if they have seen the Singing Angels Quartet. I asked the organizers too and said they will come later. I kept on looking around the venue to see the details closely of the stage, projectors, cakes, bands, and tech team. Minutes later, I decided to take a picture in the photobooth. How lucky I am to see the four of them there too! I approached and talked to them too. They dressed so beautifully for the event with those floral cocktail dresses they wore. They have light make-up too and their hairstyles were neatly done. Indeed, they dolled up for the event. I thanked them personally and held their hand. I said their love for Maine is very heartwarming. They held my hand tighter and smiled at me too. I told them to enjoy the night as we all celebrate together for Maine. They reiterated their support and love for Maine as they are very happy to do so. They told me how thankful they are too for the organizers who contacted them and for everyone who worked hard for this event. Too bad I was too excited that time I forgot to take pictures with them!

  How was their encounter with Maine?

I love how they did their rendition of “The Way You Look Tonight”. It is a very soothing and lovely version as how I gave these details from the part 2 of this blog series. Maine stood up after they performed and went down the stage. She held their hands and talked to them. I saw how the faces of the Singing Angels Quartet brightened up in that encounter. Maine hugged them too. She smiled widely as they all posed for a picture. It felt so touching as I saw that encounter personally---four talented angels with pure hearts having the experience of performing, talking, and hugging the role model who they both look up to and treat as a friend. To see Maine drew herself closer to them is a treasure to sight. I do not want to ask what did Maine said to them for I want it to remain private and special for them.

 What did this storyteller learn from them?

The Singing Angels Quartet namely Maricor Book, Mary Danelle Melgar, and sisters Camille Michaela Mercado and Czarinah Michaela Mercado reminded me a quotation from one of my favorite books, The Little Prince. “What is essential is invisible to the eye.” as Antoine de Saint-Exupery wrote in this book. The Singing Angels Quartet are visually impaired but they saw Maine’s heart. I have friends who keep on telling me blind people have heightened senses that makes them feel more than the stimuli in their environment but also with the people around them. It feels so precious to see their unconditional support for Maine even if they cannot see her by sight but they feel her heart.

I do hope and pray that was just their first encounter with her and in the future, they will reminisce the #EnchantressMaine23 with none other than talking heartily to Maine herself.

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Maine Mendoza and the Majestic Moments of 3.14 (Blog Entry #2 of 7)

Maine Mendoza and the Majestic Moments of 3.14 (Blog Entry #How was it reading the first part of my blog? Did I take you back in time to #EnchantressMaine23? For those who have not yet read it, just click on the “Archive” below the title of this blog and find the part one of this series. Happy reading!

So what is it in here in part 2? As what I promised, I will write down the highlights of #EnchantressMaine23. I am sorry again as these highlights are not in chronological order. Immersing myself in that birthday bash for Maine is similar to watching my favorite bands or spoken word poetry artists. I do not remember the sequence of the songs or poems but I will never forget how it all tugged my heart. I am too mesmerized with how surreal it feels to be in that event. As much as possible I want to keep my phone but there are moments I want to capture a photo of it. Here are the majestic moments with That Enchantress of 3.14

One of the Singing Angels Quarter led the opening prayer. They are the blind and loving supporters of Maine. The prayer is heartfelt as it conveys gratitude and hope. It is as if she is praying not for a celebrity she admired but for a longtime friend celebrating her debut party that night. She asked for God’s blessings and protection for Maine. It is always the most touching gesture of any person for me---pray for your loved ones. 

One group chapter, a Maine group hailing from Bulacan, performed dance number. They were dressed with black garbage bag covering their entire upper body and a mask, then polo shirt and jeans on the lower body. It is as if they were like midgets dancing there. Since their peripheral vision is limited, it’s more difficult to see if everyone followed the right choreography. Maine enjoyed their number as I saw her laughing heartily.  Oreo and Jester joked that if there are more production prepared; kindly join them now to save electrical consumption. Hahaha! I was laughing out loud too to the extent I feel I am taking in more air as I laugh and tears were forming in my eyes. I admire how brave they are in presenting that number, never in my lifetime will I ever thought of doing it, not even for Maine! Hahaha! I felt they were shy too after they finished performing. Hahaha! Thank you so much for this group because Maine did really enjoy it!

Another presentation is a fan sang for Maine. This young lady sang “Havana”. Beshy, whoever you are, I like your voice and stage presence!! She seems to be a regular contender in different singing contests as her body language exudes confidence. Also, her voice is so solid and stable. Beshy, walang kakaba-kaba! She even went to the stage to ask Maine to dance too to the beat of “Havana”. As the adorable and makulit Maine she is, she stood up but move tiny steps from side to side, as if doing a cotillion in a debut of JS Prom while holding her gown. Hahaha! Parang nangungulit si Maine na sayaw na rin naman yun ginagawa niya di ba?Counted na din siguro na sayaw. hahaha! Oh Maine! Even the fan laughed with Maine’s action. I love the interaction of this talented singer to Maine and to the audience.

The Singing Angels Quarter sang “The Way You Look Tonight”. They went to the front as they hold on to each other’s hands and shoulder. They positioned themselves like a chorale group. As the music played, their first few lines felt so soothing. They really have a soulful voice! I imagined myself staying in a lounge while this passionate quarter sang their heart out for Maine. “Yes yoooou're lovelyyyyy, neveeeer, eveeeer chaaaange....Cause I loooove yoooouuuu. Just the way you look tonight. Just the waaaay you looook toniiiight.” Oh those mini-runs between those syllables are melodic lullabies for my ears! After they performed, Maine went down the stage, approached them, clasped their hands, and talked to them. She smiled brightly as she posed for a picture with the talented Singing Angels Quartet. If Eat Bulaga has Broadway Boys, then for me, Maine Mendoza always has the support and love of the Singing Angels Quarter.  

I gave my storytelling and pep talk, which I initially planned at 9-12 minutes combined, but I exceeded. Hahaha! Let me share the entire experience in a separate blog entry for that. Jester jokingly said: “At dahil doon, overtime na tayo!”(non-verbatim) hahahaha! One of my favorite parts there is I told Maine it becomes a running joke now among her fans as to who will be in that “sampu fans” whom she said in the open letter.  That moment is the fulfillment of my three dreams: (a) to be a storyteller, (b) to be a public speaker, and (c) to see Maine personally.

The 4-member band played medley of foreign and OPM songs. They performed, if I remember right, just the popular lines such as the chorus or first verses of the songs. Maine sang few lines along with them while she remained seated. The best ones I love is when I heard her singing to Moonstar 88’s Torete and Coldplay’s Yellow. I love too when I saw Maine smiled as soon as she heard “Look at the staaars, look how they shiiine for yoouu” Maine surprised me with how she sang live for it sounded more captivating from hearing her sing from online videos. Her voice is not the typical biritera but the kind of perfectly suitable for an acoustic session as you chill out. BIGYAN NA NG ALBUM YAN!! Yes guys! I share the same sentiment with you. Maine is not out of tune or key and I say this objectively. I will not let my ears suffer just to endure my favorite personalities’ voices if they are not good in singing. For me, she just needs more confidence, the same confidence she had for the Team RaMen Dabarkads Challenge where she performed that heart-stopping production number. In addition, she needs singing lessons too from the likes of Ryan Cayabyab because one of his forte is to train singers to be a complete storyteller in every performance along with polishing the technical aspects. Push lang Maine! Sing your heart out anytime you want.

The AVP (audio-visual presentation) of Maine’s slideshow displayed some of her most photogenic shots, mostly those from studio photoshoots. It feels so proud seeing how Maine glowed in each of these pictures. The camera truly loves her as a subject as if Maine is its apple of the eye. That AVP showed photos of various themes, outfits, make-up but same bubbly, happy, and humble Maine we loved since we first admired her and even until now.

One of the best highlights of that night for me is the heartwarming group singing of the organizers and committee members of “I Can”. This song is popularized from the 90s iconic hit movie “DoReMi” which centered on friendship and celebrating life as its themes. They signaled us to hold the paper printed with “Yup, I Am a Solid Maine Fan. #EnchantressMaine23 <3“ and encouraged us to sing with them. What makes it more heartwarming is the AVP showed the pictures of the organizers together with Maine. It shows a different Maine compared to the first AVP I mentioned. Their body language and level of comfort in those pictures are seems like they are friends, and not the fan-celebrity interaction. The same connection I observed and felt seeing Ms. Raz’ photos with Maine. I love how Maine remains approachable and warm as she continues to surge to popularity in the entertainment industry. I felt the outpouring of love and support from these organizers and committee members as they sang “I Can” wholeheartedly especially in the lines “I can be your good friend…I can love you until the end…” I was singing along too while holding the printed paper but I felt my voice cracked and tears were forming in my eyes as I was overwhelmed in seeing these organizers and committee members’ sincere support and relentless love for Maine, as if she is not just that celebrity they admire but a family member they dearly loved. It was that moment I will continue to cherish because I was given the assurance that numerous fans like them will continue to protect and fight for Maine down the wire and through the fire---everything motivated with love and care.

Maine had her time with the cakes too. The three edible cakes look so tasty. First one is the three-layered circular cake with strawberry toppings, second is the 5-piece mini-cakes topped with letters of Maine’s name, and last is a 3-layered square-shaped cake with a huge lipsticks edible design on top of it. She blew the candles on the first cake. The other cake is a 6-layered circular-shaped projector. Maine shared in her IG story the projector cake that displayed her photos and a greeting at the end.  It is so enthralling to see Maine with that projector cake.

Sir Teddy a.k.a. Tatay Dub gave a short message to everyone and reiterated the gratitude of the entire Mendoza family for continuously loving and supporting Maine. What I heard from him is a grateful heart of from a father to the people who wants the best too for his child. Sir Teddy is warm and open too to Maine’s fans and I saw personally how he is very approachable.

Maine playfully twirled around in her free-flowing styled princess-like gown, sat down on the floor of the stage, and beautifully projected. Everyone almost took out their phone and captured a photo or video of it. It is as if she is a sunflower blooming in the middle of that night.

Maine gave her personal message. I saw a glimpse of how Maine can become vulnerable around people she is grateful for. “Kaya ko nasabi yun sampu…para pag isa-isa kayo nawala…hindi ako…” (non-verbatim) I cannot hear her clearly at that time for almost everyone cheered their support for her. Some jokingly said “iiyak na yan”. Maine hold back for a second and changed the mood into a light-hearted one, as if she is joking us that no, she will not cry. Hahahaha! Such a precious blessing Maine is indeed for all of us. I have another blog entry in this series focusing on Maine alone based from my perspective on her in that night. I hope I will be able to elaborate more in that entry.

These are the majestic moments of the #EnchantressMaine23 from this storyteller. Nothing for me can replicate and repeat these moments, which my heart fondly appreciated out of all the past memories I have about Maine. All I can do is to reminisce them all and immortalized it in my pen, well in this case in my blog, so my heart will always have the personal memorabilia as I read them all in the future.

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Maine Mendoza and the #EnchantressMaine23 Celebration (Blog Entry #1 of 7)

#EnchantressMaine23 trended last March 14 in Twitter as fans of Maine showed their support in another birthday party willingly organized by her supporters. This is the next party after the successful #MaineLegendary23 given by Solid Maine United in their private and unannounced party for Maine. This storyteller, yours truly, is blessed as I was given the chance to become a part of this experience to celebrate with Maine and her fans who love her so much too.

Prologue

I apologize in advance if I miss some information because I remember more with how I felt rather than what I know as I narrate the entire story I can recall here in these blog entries. Yes, you read it right! Blog entries instead of entry. I decided to divide the stories into 7 parts so I can focus on a particular plot instead of writing everything on a single blog entry to give emphasis to each one and avoiding sudden shifts in my narration. Also, since I am a Potterhead, allow me to give titles to every blog entry similar as to how J.K Rowling entitled the 7 Harry Potter books (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, etc).

What you will read here are from my perspectives alone. 

I do hope I will be able to give you a glimpse of what I felt as you read the words here in each of the seven-blog series. Without further ado, sit back, relax, and travel back in time as we witness again #EnchantressMaine23.

Excited Anticipation for the Celebration

As early as January, I saw different fans of Maine inviting for the event via Twitter. “Yup, I Am Solid Maine Fan” as how they entitled the invitation. They made it open for anyone who loved and supports Maine to attend and celebrate with her. 

Specifically, the main intention behind #EnchantressMaine23 is to let more fans who don’t know how to see Maine closer, have this great chance to celebrate and enjoy the birthday party with her. As long as you love Maine, you are welcome to celebrate with them. All for the real love and sincere support for Maine. What a heartwarming intention and effort indeed!

They chose Winford Hotel located behind SM San Lazaro in Sampaloc, Manila. I googled for the venue and found out it is a 4-star hotel. I know Maine deserves such treatment but to know fans organized it means a lot more for me. The time, effort, and resources poured by these people made me respect them more. I also wished to join the celebration but I am still a bit reluctant at that time if I can see Maine with a calm demeanor. Maybe it is not yet my time to see her. However, God has other plans and I am very blessed He has His ways done. I was lucky to get a chance to be there too. 3.14, as what I fondly call the event. I received the good news that I am attending the event too around second week of February, upon the generosity of one of the committee members as she sponsored my ticket. Maybe she wanted to remain anonymous but I want to say she is one of the Solid Maine United (SMU).

Time passes by slowly as I wait for 3.14. If only I can pull the days closer, I will do so. The people behind the event keeps on posting reminders in tweets to invite. Even until before the day of the event itself, they want more people to come and celebrate with them. A day before the event, I saw that the hashtag for the party is #EnchantressMaine23. I tweeted some as I am looking forward to everything that will happen the following day. At last, counting down the days turned to hours that time around.

I woke up earlier than usual last March 14, around 5am. After preparing and last minute checking of all my things packed for the event, I went to Makati to meet another fan of Maine who offered to give me a free copy of her book. Our schedule time is 11am. Since I am a kid living in Rizal, eastern most location of extended Metro Manila area, I left home at 8am. I want a comprehensive narration about these fans of Maine whom God used to sponsor my entrance ticket to #EnchantressMaine23 and the “Yup, I Am That Girl” book of Maine so they deserve a separate blog entry in this series. One of my friends happens to be working nearby at the meeting place with the generous fan who gave me the book in Makati so I visited my friend afterwards. From Makati I went to Winford Hotel through LRT 1 Libertad to LRT 1 Tayuman station. From Tayuman station, I can walk towards the venue but police officers around the area advised me instead to ride a jeepney to save time and be safer. I followed their instruction. The jeepney driver pointed how the exact directions of where Winford Hotel is. As I am walking by around SM San Lazaro, I slowly feel the exhaustion as I try to catch my breath with every step heading to the hotel and wiping off my sweat. Since morning that day, I went all the way from Rizal going to Makati and lastly to Sampaloc, Manila. Thank goodness! I thought of packing first my sleeveless floral blouse, violet bolero, and purple doll shoes in my backpack suited for students. I wore rubber shoes, dark grayish denim pants, and maroon V-neck T-shirt. I did not look like someone who will attend an extravagant party. I continued walking but with a slower pace for I may ran out of energy for the party itself.

As soon as I saw the bright yellow façade of the hotel with its huge LED advertisement screen, and metallic design of the proper noun “Winford Hotel” with two Chinese characters after it, I felt my exhaustion vanished at that moment. It is around 4:30 pm that time. The afternoon sun probably smiled at me as I reached the hotel. I asked the polite guards where Maine’s party is. They said fourth floor. For security protocol, it is exactly like how you pass by any airport terminals. As I stepped inside the hotel, my eyes widened for how spacious and grandeur it is. The ceilings are so high, the lights resonated the glamor of the place, and the pathway going to the lobby has a line of chandeliers. The escalator are longer than commercial malls and its length is almost similar to the ones in Henry Sy building in De La Salle University-Taft. The reception staff smiled at me and explained Maine’s event is in fourth floor, the Ballroom. Every floor has specific function rooms, if I remember it correctly. Because I want to have a view of the hotel, I took the escalator instead of the elevator. It was pure architectural aesthetics for me. I was a bit ashamed in a way I entered the hotel looking like a lost college kid wearing my pants, rubber, shoes, shirt, and backpack.

I reached the fourth floor. Outside the ballroom event hall, I saw fans of Maine chatting with their companions, friends, and other co-fans. Not far from them is a group of marshals. They are like bouncers with their built. These marshals are scattered in the venue proper to check on every area. Behind them is the long table of registration area where the committee members and organizers checks for the attendees. Fans from different ages were there—from a cute little adorable little girl aged five maybe, energetic teenagers, and equally vibrant young adults, middle-aged, and elders. They are all anticipating for the event just like this storyteller you have here. I briskly walked towards the registration area to say thank you personally to the committee member who has sponsored me. They then put the tag around my right forearm and stamped on my left forearm, as these are parts of the security protocol. Marshals only allowed those with the tag and stamped mark to enter the room. After a small chat talk with the organizers and committee members, I went to the nearest comfort room to change my clothes for the casual floral themed birthday party for Maine. 

”This is it RJ! Ito na talaga yun! Totoo ‘tong lahat!”I convinced myself this is not a dream. In minutes, I will see Maine and have the experience of a lifetime in that night for any fangirl wishing to just see a glimpse of her.

“Here I go!”

In the Midst of the Ethereal Event, That 3.14.

After I changed my clothes, I smiled at the other attendees in the party. I approached the registration area and asked if I can already get inside. The marshals checked my backpack first. The organizers and committee members smiled warmly back at me. They are busy offering books of Maine for the same price in bookstores and in checking the master list of the attendees.

“#5 table mo.” They told me as they smiled. I thanked them again and bowed a bit, maybe around 15° in angle? I am always grateful for them to allow me to be a part of this event. The venue proper is into two parts. The first one is where the registration area, pica-pica, photo booth, arch of flowers before the main door where Maine entered are all placed. It has a low ceiling just like a typical classroom and the entire floor covered with carpet. I like the room temperature too, maybe around 21°. It is a separate place from the main event place for the party. I looked for a while in this place and I went inside towards the table #5. As I slowly walked beneath the arch of flowers, my visual perspective slowly widened. 

No one told me how glamorous it will be. The main venue where they held the birthday party surprised me. I walked few steps inside to avoid blocking more attendees from the main entrance. I took my time as I marveled the entire venue. There I was, frozen-like with such awe of this place arranged with majestic designs.  I attended events before huge companies organized them. To see fans of Maine prepared for this venue made me respect them more. The main area for the event proper has high ceilings. It is so high I bet you can play volleyball without worrying you may hit one of the lights. The lights on the ceiling are so glamorous too! Those added the royal atmosphere. At the back is the buffet area. There were around 15-20 circular tables for the attendees, half is at the right side and the other half is at the left side. The carpeted floor is similar with the design from the photo booth area. Another carpet in crimson red is at the center of these tables from the back all the way to near the stage. There are some projectors around too. I remember one near the buffet area and another on the front, at the right portion of the stage. The technical team for lights and sounds are at the extreme left near the stage. At the left portion of the stage near the corner, another elevated stage was there for the band. The edible cakes is between the band and the stage for Maine. The projector cake is almost beside the projector on the right portion. Oh dear, how can I start describing the stage? That Audrey Hepburn-vibe look in a princess-like yellow and black gown of Maine where she placed her palms beneath her chin as she poses for a photo…Yes, which is exactly the stage where she was throughout the event. That cushioned cream-colored seat appeared as if a throne embellished with flowers, mirrors, and chandeliers. A throne suited for a princess indeed!

I am sorry I took long in describing the place. It is just so beautiful I want to write it down. I almost forgot my seat number when I viewed around the venue. #5 yeah! I looked around and saw #5. I am lucky the table is near the red carpet and behind one of the VIP tables. I can see the stage closer too, such fortune for a near-sighted like me. I found table #5. Two fans of Maine talked to me as soon as they saw me. It was relieving for me because I do not usually start the conversation in any social gathering or events. They went around to distribute papers with printed, “Yes, I am a Solid Maine Fan! #EnchantressMaine23

After I took my picture in the photo booth, I hurriedly went back to my seat at table #5 as they were saying Maine would arrive in a while. The two hosts hyped up the atmosphere as they welcomed us all in the event, namely Oreo (@imbarbarasastre) and Jester. Oreo is part of Team Banana while Jester, as other fans told me in the party, is a comedic entertainer in Eat Bulaga. Jester entertains the Broadway audience during commercial breaks. They were very lively and animated in that hosting stint. They made the atmosphere more exciting while staying relevant as they interacted to the fans. The wireless mic helped them approach table per table. I was laughing aloud with their funny antics. Jester even said if the name of one Maine chapter group is Maine-tenance. hahaha! Oreo and Jester told the attendees we could have our dinner. Guys, I am sorry I cannot remember the time at this point forward because I lost track of it as soon as I stepped inside the venue proper. While I was in the line getting our food, the phenomenal star arrived. Allow me to dedicate another part in this series of blog entries for her through my perspective in that party as how I would narrate her from that event. Everyone looked at her as she walked beneath the arch of flowers and on the crimson red carpet as she smiled and gracefully waved her hand. Band played song making those moments more magical. She sat comfortably in her throne-like seat. The event proper started in few minutes. I hurriedly went back to my seat and ate. The food taste great! Usually, I notice food served in events are too salty or too flavorful but those in #EnchantressMaine23 have the delicious taste for me. Veggies, fish, meat, and rice made it all a healthy combination for our dinner. Added with the desserts and iced tea, I feel so full after our dinner. 

A prayer, led by one of the Singing Angels Quartet, opened the program. A Maine fan group chapter from Bulacan presented a dance number. A young lady sang “Havana” and even asked Maine to dance. The Singing Angels Quarter sang “The Way You Look Tonight” for the birthday celebrant too. As what I aforementioned, let me tell more about this quartet in a separate blog entry. In addition, I delivered my storytelling and pep talk for that event which I will narrate in another part of this blog series

The projector displayed an AVP(audio-visual presentation) of Maine’s various pictures. The organizers and committee members sang, “I Can” from the 90s hit movie “DoReMi” together with an AVP of their pictures together with Maine. They signaled us to sing with them and raise the paper they handed. The band sang medley of foreign and OPM songs into which Maine gamely joined in singing some lines. Of course, Maine blew too the candles on her edible birthday cakes. She appreciated too the projector cake. Sir Teddy (Tatay Dub) gave a message for the attendees. Maine said a heartfelt message. I want to elaborate these highlights of the event in a separate blog entry. Maine went to the photo booth area to have her own photos taken. Guys, again I apologize these events are not in chronological order as I just enjoyed all those moments and forgot to take down notes which one goes first. I did not take videos too for me to immerse in those moments. A photo opportunity with Maine per table happened too. Oreo and Jester closed the program by thanking everyone who made it possible. Maine bid goodbye to us as she waved and smiled while walking out of the venue.

The program ended too soon. It was too brief for me. If that was a concert, I want to shout out “Encore! Encore!” Time was too fast because I am happy, oh scratch that rather, I am overwhelmed with elation and bliss that night.

Reverberating Euphoria Afterwards

I do not still know the exact time after the event. I went around taking pictures with the hosts, band, organizers, committee members, marshals, etc. I took photos too of the place, cake, projectors, stage, and so many more. Everyone were all smiles that night or should I say we all grinned. It was the kind of grin as if we exercised all our facial muscles. They told me there are cactus souvenirs still left so I got one too. I thanked everyone around including the keepers, photographers, marshals, fans who attended organizers and committee members who worked hard for that event. It felt like we finished performing a grand musical play, which we rehearsed for months. It was a huge and unifying teamwork leading to a successful and unforgettable event. As I am ready to go home, the generous SMU who sponsored my entrance requested another Solid Maine fan group let me ride with them since we have the same route. They are fun to be with too!  As we are going to their car, I sent a text message to my mama explaining I will not take the bus as this kind and funny fan group welcomed me to be with them going home. I only need to commute via two PUV (public utility vehicle) to my home after they reached their destination.

It was past 1am when I arrived home. My heart is so full I keep on reminiscing the moments. I did not notice but tears just flowed down while I am smiling. These are the times I want to shout “Thank You God!”…but I am still overwhelmed and only whispers came out of my lips. I prayed and hoped I will be able to write everything in this blog entry. Because after so many years and when the time comes my memory failed to remember the moments that made me euphoric last 3.14 for #EnchantressMaine23, this blog entry will serve as my favorite reverse diary to reminisce it all.

Thank you for reading everything here in part one of seven even if it is too long. God bless you all guys!

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Bonding with “Ate Santa Claus”: A Maine’s Fan Generous Heart

I am a former silent fangirl of Maine since 2016 until she released the Open Letter. Recently around 3rd week of January 2018, I decided to be vocal about my support for Maine. Fangirling online is not a new thing for me so I am already familiar how to be objective, positive, and happy with my words. Rule of thumb is “Promote what you love instead of bashing what you hate.” It worked for me all the times so I applied it as well here for the fandom of Maine. 

I started tweeting first and I created this dedicated fangirl blog entry for Maine. Few fans immediately appreciate my written works for the Phenomenal Star. What warms my heart is the joy and gratitude I am feeling whenever I write about Maine are the emotions they felt too when they read my blog entries or tweets. I continued doing this regardless of how varied my ideas are and how sudden these topics crossed my mind. When a writer like me is not silenced by my thought and heart, it means I have to write it down. Hence, this Tumblr blog becomes the platform for all the things I want to say about Maine.

Almost a month after I am vocal about my support for Maine, an unexpected DM (direct message) in Twitter caught me by surprise. A fan of Maine randomly sent this message:

“Hello ganda good morning, I saw your post, dont get offended ha but I wanted to give you a gift sana. A Microsoft tablet RT, with detachable keyboard. Ung specs nia oarang ipad 4th generation. Its a refurbished unit :).. natutuwa kasi ako how you love Meng so much.” [sic]

I did not know what to say. Even if I wanted to doubt, my gut feeling is loudly telling me she has a pure intention in giving that gift. Since I know how to read people’s aura either through words or pictures, it’s easier for me to separate the those with sincere intentions from a bogus. It’s a skill developed by keen and observant writers since I get inspiration from anything or anyone for my writing and not just what I feel. 

I simply know I can trust her.

She sent the DM last 3rd of Feb, 2018 through my only Twitter account (@rj1421). She offered me if she can send the tablet via shipping or we can meet personally. I chose the latter because when she said she’s an OFW working in an Asian country, I know how costly the shipping fee for a letter alone on international borders so how much more for a tablet. She said she will come home to her family soon and we can meet in that time. I agreed to her suggestion.

March 10, 2018 was the designated date for meeting Ate Santa Claus. I need to use a pseudonym to respect her wishes of staying anonymous. I was excited for that day because it will be the first time for me to have a cafe bonding with a fan of Maine. I want to hear her stories too.

She is very concerned about me. Ate Santa Claus keeps on sending me reminders about the security protocol of her AirBnB accommodation. On the day itself, she texted me to say that I must notify her if I am already nearby. She stayed nearby the busy district of Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato. I grabbed the chance to take a picture of Bahay ni Kuya. Also I hoped I can see the boutique of Francis Libiran (renowned designer of Maine’s majestic princess-like gown in Tamang Panahon) as I went there. I didn’t know it was a private compound and appointments should be held first. Few more minutes after, I reach the accommodation where Ate Santa Claus stays.

As soon as I saw her, I immediately thought she is around my age. I’m around late 20s. I was surprised when she said she’s way older than my guess. She has a youthful vibe. And to use my mama’s words in observing people, “maaliwalas ang bukas ng mukha niya.” I felt comfortable in an instant because of her warm and sincere aura. I just knew it but it is more than just the smiles, a genuine character simply exudes an authentic aura.

We sat down in Coffee Bean to have more bonding time. I wanted to pay for my order but she told me she will take care of it. I did not feel meeting  fan for the first time. What I felt in that moment is my own Ate came home to check on me. She is very caring even if she is not that much expressive.

I love our discussion about Maine. We are on the same page that Maine is the first Filipino mainstream celebrity we admire. Like me, she is also admires volleyball personalities. She shared her own story into which she said that she is thankful Maine reminded her that sometimes, we need to take care and decide for ourselves first. We cannot prioritize other things and people to the extent we are losing ourselves or we are just settling for mediocrity. 

This story is about how she made a brave decision that I am sure most girls will not do. Ate Santa Claus told me she ended a long-time relationship. It is so long that you can round off the number to 10. She felt they are not growing anymore because as she continues to aim for new goals and development, they guy is complacent and settled with what he has for the past years. The guy even told her that she changed completely. I respect how she told me change is inevitable and what we can do instead is to change for good. They separated on a good note as the guy respected her decision too. Ate Santa Claus is already within the supposed marrying age that Filipino culture suggests but there she is, telling me she will not settle for less and with hesitations in her heart despite how long they have been together and even if their families from both sides are ready anytime for their big announcement. My respect for her deepen. 

Another thing I admire about Ate Santa Claus is how much she loves her family. Like me, she wants to support her family in every possible way especially finances. Her heart is so huge that she did not mind allocating her salary for them and just keeping less for herself. OFWs really have a special spot in their hearts for their families. She wants to help them for as long as she can. I told her in the Bible, children who honors and respects their parents are favored and blessed by God.

To add more reminders from her, she told she wants to live her life to the fullest. This is why she balances her work and life experience. From time to time, she travels to different places. She is a wanderlust by heart. I was so amazed with all the local and international destinations she has been. She immersed in their culture too as she travels to connect more to the experiences more than what tourists want to do. 

As our discussion went back to Maine, she told me that FUNgirling (haha sorry for the pun) should be FUN. It must not be stressful or problematic. We already have our own personal challenges and we should not add up the negativity to it. I laughed with her when she told me funny anecdotes about her fangirling to Maine. She told me she is not the type to socialize but here she is, inviting a Maine core fan group to practice a dance number in her airbnb accommodation for a fan-organized party. She invited me too to her place itself and I saw there the Maine fan core group cheering for Maine in ACTually. They were very, very nice too and it felt like a college reunion for me. As I was going home, two of them even accompanied me to the elevator. Little did I know that as soon as Maine herself thanked the SMU for their exclusive party for Maine, Ate Santa Clause with her Maine fan core group also celebrated there. I was like “Hala ate ang cuuuuute!! Dun pala yun pinapractice nila!! They need to wait first for Maine’s post before Ate Santa Claus can tell me it was for that party which they are practicing for. 

Same like Santa Claus, I don’t like going to a crowd or a huge audience but she told me she just went to Broadway to see Maine, much to the laughter of her mom. haha! And recently she just shared how happy and worth it to be a part of the SMU birthday bash for Maine. Out of our love for Maine, we really do things we do not usually do before. Ganun talaga kapag pinahahalagahan mo. I love hearing all those stories about Maine from a fan whom I first met.

She grabbed the tablet and taught me the basics like how to detach the keyboard and how to use its stand. I am still amazed with this gift. Yes I know she is well off but as what I told Ate Santa Claus, not all those with the capacity to give has the willingness to give. Here she is, giving me the tablet wholeheartedly.

Sabi ko, “Ate how can I repay you?” She smiled, and said “Pay it forward”

I felt my tears forming at that moment. Thankfully my over-sized eyeglasses can cover my eyes. She has advocacy too and she wants me to continue doing my passion such as writing. In time, as she said, I will be able to help other people too. I planted her words in my heart so when the time comes I fell down again from failures and rejections, her words will be one of God’s assurance to remember my purpose. 

I will never forget that day for sure. Two strangers become sisters because God used Maine to be our bridge. So this is how it feels like when huge core fan group becomes united that despite of the diversity, we can be one.

Ate Santa Claus. as soon as you read this blog entry, you may have already been back as an OFW. Thank you so much for sharing your personal and fangirling stories with me. 

Just like you Ate Santa Claus, I will propel too in my career and passion as I support my family and strengthen my faith in God. And yes, I will continue reinforcing how much we all love Maine through God’s gift of storytelling in my heart, be it in creative writing or public speaking. Thank you po ulit from me, a happy kiddo RJ, your new little sister!

As for you Maine, look at what you have done. :) You become an instrument to remind us of the wonderful things Life has for us and to be always thankful to the Great Provider above. Thank you and God bless!

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Nicomaine at 23: How fans made 3rd of March, 2018 That Special Day for That Girl

“Happy birthday Maine!”

Family, friends, showbiz colleagues, non-fangirl supporters, fans, and more greeted the young Phenomenal Star as she turns 23. It was indeed a special day for Maine and for everyone who loves her. 

As her birthday falls exactly on a Saturday, fans anticipated as to what will happen in Eat Bulaga. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to watch it because I met a friend in UPTC that day. Yes, I am included in Team Replay. I watched the video clips in Eat Bulaga YouTube channel Sunday morning. 

An AVP with a jovial toned voice over introduced Maine with these words: 

"Simula nang dumating siya, araw-araw niya tayong pinasaya. Kahit maraming hanga sa kanyang ganda, go nago siyang makipagsabayan sa kanyang mga kuya sa barangay. Kaya sabay-sabay natin i-celebrate ang special day ng nag-iisang prinsesa ng barangay. Happy birthday Maine Mendoza!"

Afterwards,  Maine entered the camera frame along with the tricycles attached with yellow and pink balloons. She energetically performed a production number in barangay. EB hosts greeted her. As soon as Maine grabbed hold of a microphone while still lightly panting after her production number, she started expressing these words:

"Thank you! Thank you mga kuya! At siyempre Mr. Tuviera, Ms Jenny, thank you po sa Eat Bulaga family, sa Triple A family, sa lahat ng Dabarkads and Tito Sen, Bossing, and Boss Joey, Ma'am Allan, kung saan man kayo..ayon maraming salamat po sa lahat din ng sumusuporta sa akin at nagmamahal mula...kahit saan mang parte ng mundo maraming salamat po, di ko na papahabain basta maraming salamat sa tiwala at pagmamahal." 

Jose Manalo greeted Maine. As the supportive kuya he is to Maine, he said these humbling reminders:

"Ayan ang gusto naming sabihin sa'yo, maraming taong nagmamahal sa'yo, maraming taong nagdarasal sa'yo at umaasa pa sa magagandang...mapasaya mo sila. Sana wag kang magbago at lagi silang nandiyan. Lagi kang titingin sa likod, may mga taong umaasa para sa'yo." 

Maine showed her bunso-like side to the JoWaPao trio as she happily said:

"At saka ano...thank you din sa inyong tatlo dahil love na love ko talaga kayo."

Juan for All, All for Juan Sugod Bahay segment for March 3, 2018 gave those chances for Maine to show her gratitude to everyone who have been by her side. 

Since it’s a Saturday, Maine went to Broadway with JoWaPao for the ACTually segment. Vic Sotto told her tons of fans in Broadway wants to greet her. Maine responded: 

"Ay yun nga po Bossing...pati po yun mga nagpadala pala ng cake. Ayan mga Dabarkads! Hello po! Thank you! Maraming salamat at sa lahat ng nagpadala ng...Ayan ang dami! Salamat po!.....pati yun mga nagpala po ng lechon, maraming salamat mamaya po naming lalantakan yan." 

After ACTually segment, Maine rushed backstage to greet fans who waited at the stairs. Because hordes of fans swarm to Broadway, their number is more than the seating capacity of the studio. A sea of yellow drowned the whole Broadway studio and even at the staircase near the backstage. Everything was in Maine’s favorite sunshine bright yellow---from shirts, balloons, and mini-banners. They cheered at the sight and presence of the birthday girl. Maine thanked both Aldubnation and Mainenatics for all the support and efforts for her. 

In the Twitterverse, here are some of my favorite highlights of Maine’s precious 23rd birthday. Click on the usernames to see the tweet with the pictures and videos. 

“Isa ako sa sampu mini-banner:” @eppierey1999 ---> A simple yet meaningful layout created by @ndeicm for this convenient to bring mini banner. The contents include the name “Maine Mendoza” and the tagline “Isa Ako Sa Sampu”. The tagline connote a strong meaning to the extent it is a battle cry for me. Maine’s brave action in releasing the Open Letter has her acceptance she might lose it all, including the fans who supported her, thus she wrote: “Even if I am left with a small number of supporters after posting this, kahit sampu lang yan, for as long as I know (and I feel) they truly love me and care for me, I’ll be fine.” True fans proved to Maine we stayed and this is where the battle cry of “Isa Ako Sa Sampu” becomes the resonating assurance. A perfect tagline indeed for the banner. Thank you again @ndeicm for creating this layout for the mini-banner. Thank you too for giving me a soft copy of the HD layout. 

“Tatay Dub,thank you po sa pagdikit ng “Isa Ako sa Sampu” banner sa mcdo ni Meng Yes naman @ndeicm achievement yung design mo collection na ni Mendoza #NicomaineAt23″  @tysentes ---> The mini-banners, I heard, were given for free in Broadway for the fans. The “Isa Ako Sa Sampu” reached Maine’s family. Sir Teddy Mendoza displayed the mini-banner in the McDonald’s Sta.Clara, Bulacan franchise owned by Maine herself. Along with the other fan gifts and portraits on the wall, that mini-banner earned its rightful spot.  

“I just had to post this. I am not your fan, but with your words, you also captured my heart. You're one of the strongest women in show business. Happy birthday, Maine. Hope you had a great one! 💛 with love from, JaDine fan 💕 #NicomaineAt23″ @hellobaangsiee - Jadines are the sweetest fandom for me outside Maine’s fan groups in the Twitterverse. I  remember writing a blog entry for Nadine and Maine before as my way of thanking them for their great words for Maine. In her birthday, another Jadine fan tweeted these appreciation for her. Thank you again Jadines! You’re such an adorable and kind fandom. 

“Hindi lang sampu, mahal. Hindi kailanman mangyayari yan. 💛 © madel_official #NicomaineAt23 | Isa ako sa sampu” @menggalurks ---> I am touched with these pictures. Fans waited hours to queue in line just to get a slot in Broadway in time for Maine’s bday. They did not mind the long hours, heat, pollution, and other inconvenience just for that precious minutes to see her personally in Broadway. Such an effort indeed.

“CAKES CAKES CAKES! 😋 Ang daming nagmamahal sa'yo Memeng! 😄 #NicomaineAt23″ @MaineAvenueOfc ---> Approximately more than a hundred cakes were there from companies which Maine endorses their products and services. Cakes from different Maine’s fan groups also have its special places there for her celebration. The cakes from the fans are made from labor of love as they spent for it from their own pockets, creativity, time, and effort. Every cake has its own style, story, and size. Aesthetically pleasing to the eyes and I wonder how each of them tastes so good. Thank you for the companies and fan groups who went out of their way to give these wonderful cakes for Maine.

“Binalikan ni memeng ang mga cakes  @mainedcm Happy Birthday ulit, lalabs!#NicomaineAt23” @MaineAvenueOfc ---> I love how Maine’s eyes sparkled in happiness and delight as she checked on these cakes. She even gasped in surprise to see a tall layered cake and looked closely at its elaborate details. Maine’s smile stayed as she went over to the rest of the cakes. She did appreciate all those cakes for sure.

“For your love, support, time, efforts and all, maraming maraming salamat po! Just so lucky being loved by so many-The Mendoza’s-“ @macmendoza75 ---> Ma’am Mary Ann Mendoza, mom of the Phenomenal Star and fondly called as Nanay Dub by most fans, expressed her appreciation and gratitude for all fans of Maine. She definitely felt how significant and beloved Maine is for every supporter of her daughter. 

“Omgggg thank you so much guys! Amazeballs!!! *happy dance* - @mainedcm ---> Maine thanked fans as the hashtag #NicomaineAt23 trended to more than 1.1 M tweets. Every tweet has  heartwarming message as fans send across the greetings for Maine. 

This is another special birthday for Maine both for herself and for the fans...In my perspective as an observer (taking away first my focal lens as a fan), every supporter did their part to send out their assurance especially with what happened in the past months wherein she released the Open Letter. Fans, in their own special ways, contributed to make Maine’s birthday another memory to cherish.

Happy birthday Maine! Continue dreaming and growing as you reach more milestones in your life and career. God bless you always!

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