Kape at Keso

In those years of working at the university library, I developed this sheer necessity to read books whenever or wherever I can. Being with books allowed me to explore places and wonders or even discover hidden knowledge that are just within the walls of the library. After graduating from the uni and getting a full-time job, I promised myself to buy at least one book a month. Had I been so religious, I would have accumulated books twice more than what I have now. But I think I can partly blame my economic status and the unaffordability of books. And wait, why are books so pricey in my country? Looking back, I remembered this certain story from one librarian. She was invited to an international conference in Hawaii for educators and school administrators. During breaks, she noticed some participants staying at a corner and reading books. She also met somebody who would carry one book in his bag all the time. That story made her conclude two things. First, busyness is not an excuse ...

Image from: rei.com Today he's wearing back that old torn bag. He got a new decent one and had it yesterday. Did something go wrong? Don't we all long for better things? And the man can afford. He's tall but his posture is bent. He wears black beanies with cat ears and eyes on them. His pants although don't seem old needed a good wash. His runners are Asics, not cheap but surely durable. So, the man can afford.  Today I'm wearing a long skirt I bought from a thrift store three years ago. It serves me well in winter. It's starting to wear out. And oh my coat too. I bought it brand new though. He seems to take the same train line, same platform, same car. He is easy to spot. Perhaps a lot of people have the same routine. Do they notice him? They might have but they won't bother.  He just got off the train. This station is a big one, surrounded with both commercial and residential edifices. It connects several train lines. A busy one too. The man is shabby, lo...

I have always been fascinated with the stories of the past. Like some of you, I thought that perhaps I was born in the wrong era. Well recently, I read a book about the early followers of Jesus in the Roman times. I imagined walking in those days. I suppose the daily life back then was simpler or less complicated and people weren’t as confused. Although you may argue that the Roman Empire is guilty of suppressing and persecuting the early Christians. Well, that is rational and you are right. But what I mean to say is, way before the digital era, people were more laidback, lovers of wisdom and knowledge yet were strong enough to go to wars. But you see, soaking in and imagining the stories of the past is all I can do, and I despise wars.  The Roman poet, Ovid once said, “Let others praise ancient times I am glad I was born in these” How boastful of Ovid. But he has all the right to be so. Ovid lived during the time when Rome was prospering under the emperor Augustus. And we learned ...