Unmasked (an interview with Annamanila)

The other day I contradicted my own statement, as stated in my About Me section. “Do not ask. Just let me tell it to you.” I got the courage to ask AnnaManila (and Gypsy) to interview me. Envy did me in. Plenty in my blogroll got interviewed already.

So, here are my answers to Annamanila’s very tough interview questions.

1. What was the most exquisite thing you have ever said or did in anger or loss of temper?

Honestly, I seldom get angry. I am a very patient and level-headed person.

But I did things when I was a kid. I punched my friend who bullied me. He cried without even getting even. I also threw a stone at another bully, then taking cover. Ah! Bad me! Sometimes, when a taxi driver is overcharging, I’ll say “This is just my advance abuloy” then hurry away. After a few minutes, I say a silent prayer, regretting the foul words that I previously uttered. “Lord, Bless the taxi driver. I’m sorry I cursed him. Keep him safe. May he come to know You.”

2. If you believe that nothing happens for no reason, what do you think was the purpose of your strict uncle’s coming and going in your life. What are your leftover thoughts about him?

I am on speaking terms with my uncle. I’m sure he did not know I had a grudge against him when I was on my teens. It was more of an acceptance on my part. He taught me many things that were not within the level of my usual playmates. Chess, scrabble, boogle, guitar, etc….

As I matured, I began to dismiss grudges and all those putdowns I encountered in my childhood and early teens. Being of “melancholy” personality, I learned it’s a natural tendency for me to keep grudges and scheme reprisals. But I knew God changed me. I may remember the events, but I do not keep grudges anymore.

3. What will it take to unmask you? Tell us what you are—with all the masks removed – in one word or sentence.

A long time ago, a psychology professor mentioned about masks people wear, and games people played. A mask is not really about pretending. It is just like hiding one's true feelings. I think we all wear masks. We just smile even with our clenched fist ready to strike. We say "it's ok" even if it's not. We scheme of vengeance though congratulating the opponent. We put mysterious names as our online identity. And so on and so forth.

I think sincerity pierces invisible walls, barriers and masks. But I still am complicated in some other ways. Just accept me as I am. I am a good friend. And I look at the good side of other people, despite their angst, sarcasm and the masks they also wear.

In this blog I revealed plenty of what's going on in my heart and thoughts. I am already unmasked slowly.

4. Do you identify with the Biblical Lazarus? Why? Otherwise, how did you fancy yourself as a lazarus?

My initial idea is just about leftover foods. And then connect it with leftover thoughts. There are two Lazarus in the Bible. One is Jesus’ friend, and the other is that poor man who fed on leftovers from the rich men. The latter is a character in a parable. So I just likened myself to the one who enjoyed leftovers, not just food, but also ideas.

5. Have you ever felt burnt out in a year or so you have been blogging? How did you bounce back?

Ah burn-out! Sexy Mom once commented that I’m too young for that. I really felt like I’m stuck right now at a certain level in my career, and facing some crisscross roads. I don’t think I have fully bounced back. But I take it a step at a time. This is just one of those moments in life that I have to go through. Blogging somewhat lightens the load. Career-wise, I am anticipating exciting turns in the next few months.

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I would like to thank Anna for taking the time to read some of my previous posts, and come up with the tough questions.

Do you want to be interviewed and have headaches for days? Here are the rules:

1. Leave me a comment saying “Interview me.”
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions.
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.