by Miko Brillantes
Cogs in a Machine
I've been told that we have it pretty good here compared to even other Western countries. Labor is pretty cheap that a lot of services not easily attainable in the West are pertty common here. Maids, drivers, and even grocery baggers. In Europe, you have to bag your own groceries. I bet that most of you don't even notice who bags your stuff. I am guilty of that too. A lot of the time, because I normally don't have my groceries bagged, I don't even notice the bagger standing at the end of the counter. I'd just tell the cashier "No bag please" and move off.
Fast forward to JEEP
On the first day, a friend of mine came to visit me. I was pretty much just talking to the other baggers and cashiers for the past few hours when I noticed a really tall and lanky girl behind this customer who had so much stuff, we were bagging for him for the last 10 minutes or so. I immediately recognized the CEU uniform and chinky eyes and gave a bright-eyed look to my friend, who returned the favor. Then the customer who still had so much stuff to be bagged, told my friend about the other two empty lanes, and said that she could use those two so she wouldn't have to wait. My friend politely told him that it was fine, and didn't switch. After another 10 minutes or so (he seriously bought boxloads of pasta and sauce), he again asked my friend if she would like to switch lanes. Again, my friend said she was alright with the wait, and again refused to budge. Now this made the guy, and other customers and staff curious, as we had been exchanging glances and smiles ever since the first one. Then finally, the register stalled, and the cashier had to ask everyone, including my friend, to switch to other lanes while the register was fixed. The guy finally quipped "I guess you really have to switch lanes now." My friend then smiled and said "Oh, it was because I wanted 'him' to bag my stuff" looking at me. So naturally the other cashiers and the customers thought it was cute. They thought she was my girlfriend who had come to visit me at work. After getting her stuff checked out, she went up to me and said "Hey, it was nice seeing you again, even if it was here" before leaving. Everyone, including the customer, asked if she really was my girlfriend when she left. She was a former classmate whom I had not seen in almost 3 years.
As my other days at JEEP showed, it's a really dull feeling just working. Literally hundreds of people pass you by and not a single one tries to start up a conversation or even notices you. So I guess that's why a little show like what me and my friend gave to the rest became such a hit. It breaks the monotony of the day. And really, I would figure that these people would love the attention from someone, even for just a few short minutes. They literally become just cogs in a machine; working unseen in the contraption that is the grocery of Rustan's.
We are all relational beings. I'd like to bet even the most introverted person wouldn't mind company once in a while. After having almost none day in and day out apart from their co-workers, I wouldn't be surprised as to why the other workers thought so much of my little encounter with my friend. And I also noticed that they would take note of the 'regulars' and seemed to hold them in such high regard. Because these 'regulars' actually saw them as human. These people knew the cashiers and baggers by name and even struck up conversations with them, including me at one point. In the hustle and bustle of a working day, a little conversation or attention can do wonders to the mood.
We are not machines. We are people. There's something to think about next time you're in line at the grocery. So maybe next time, give a smile and see what happens. You would be doing someone a really big favor.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Thursday, February 21, 2013
The Burden of Being Responsible
by Christian Go
In class, we discussed the concept of responsibility towards others. This responsibility is both a begging and a demand from the other from us. Unfortunately in present day, we seem to have deemed to begin questioning the concept of helping others. There is a fear to step of out of our bounds to help others. We fear the extent of which we can no longer keep giving the support or keep providing the help on a consistent level. And because of this we seem to have blamed everything on the process. The government isn’t doing much and because of this I cannot choose to do anything. It is very much like my mindset that I do not choose to vote simply because I think that the system will simply be cheated. That my one vote will not matter nor will it count.
In terms of this class, I have realized it was the self simply refusing to leave its comfort zone. It’s very much like the concept of love. If we do not choose to risk, we cannot have anything to receive. High risk high return, low risk low return. Right now, I believe it is a question of leaving the il ya. We do not choose to stand out and therefore we choose to stand by the sides and not do anything. We can give and it can hurt, but it is simply painful because we still choose to expect. As ideal as it may sound, I think at some point we cannot choose to expect anything in return. It sounds very Ignatian, but in the development field it applies very much. The development field doesn’t provide much return for the self but rather for others. You constantly work in communities who refuse to listen and revert back to its old issues. At some level, you just choose to give up because the NGO’s themselves choose to fight with each other rather than help each other along.
As mentioned earlier, higher risk higher return. You cannot choose to provide a little of something and expect a lot and for that matter should be expecting nothing at all. I believe this is the take home lesson of responsibility and what it truly means to be one for the other and to be the other for the other.
In class, we discussed the concept of responsibility towards others. This responsibility is both a begging and a demand from the other from us. Unfortunately in present day, we seem to have deemed to begin questioning the concept of helping others. There is a fear to step of out of our bounds to help others. We fear the extent of which we can no longer keep giving the support or keep providing the help on a consistent level. And because of this we seem to have blamed everything on the process. The government isn’t doing much and because of this I cannot choose to do anything. It is very much like my mindset that I do not choose to vote simply because I think that the system will simply be cheated. That my one vote will not matter nor will it count.
In terms of this class, I have realized it was the self simply refusing to leave its comfort zone. It’s very much like the concept of love. If we do not choose to risk, we cannot have anything to receive. High risk high return, low risk low return. Right now, I believe it is a question of leaving the il ya. We do not choose to stand out and therefore we choose to stand by the sides and not do anything. We can give and it can hurt, but it is simply painful because we still choose to expect. As ideal as it may sound, I think at some point we cannot choose to expect anything in return. It sounds very Ignatian, but in the development field it applies very much. The development field doesn’t provide much return for the self but rather for others. You constantly work in communities who refuse to listen and revert back to its old issues. At some level, you just choose to give up because the NGO’s themselves choose to fight with each other rather than help each other along.
As mentioned earlier, higher risk higher return. You cannot choose to provide a little of something and expect a lot and for that matter should be expecting nothing at all. I believe this is the take home lesson of responsibility and what it truly means to be one for the other and to be the other for the other.
Paying Attention
by Mariel Soon
19 February 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "Responsibility," Ethics and Infinity
Every now and then, I commute going home due to various reasons. My usual route from Katipunan would be to take the LRT to Cubao, take the MRT to Shaw and take an FX going home. Through my adventure, I would obviously encounter lots of people but I wouildn’t really pay any attention to them. Nevertheless, I’d still acknowledge their presence.
One of these people are the MRT cleaners. The situation would just usually be: I do my thing, you do yours. Let’s mind our own business. And it’s just so ironic that I was able to get MRT-3 for my JEEP. We were tasked to help the MRT-3 cleaners with their day-to-day tasks: from sweeping the floors to scrubbing the bathroom tiles.
During the first day of Area Engagement, we were treated as normal workers… until they found out we were Ateneans. Suddenly, their treatments changed and it was quite obvious that they were giving us the (unwanted) special treatment. They were constantly asking us if we wanted to take a break, even though we have only worked for a little less than 30 minutes. That went on and on until we finally decided to take our 30-minute break for the shift.
They’d bring out their packed lunch or canned goods along with their rice cooker and consistently offer their meals. As we were mingling with them, we were able to hear one of our co-workers saying “Sa bagay, marami naman sigurong pagkain sa inyo.” That became the major turning point of the whole 4-hour shift experience that day.
I was then reminded of the economic gap we have with them. Admittedly, I’m used to taking things for granted simply because they were already there and they were never taken away from me. But it was because of this that I was reminded of the responsibility I also had for them. This responsibility may not be much of the economic responsibility, but it’s more of the social responsibility for the Other. It’s not about being able to completely help them but it’s doing the little things which can help them go on.
These are the sort of things you’re not supposed to do to show off, but you do them simply because you want to and you feel the responsibility to do it. I’d be asked by people “Why pay attention to the people you don’t even know?” Well, why not?
“Think about it. Maybe it was fate. There are no coincidences. Everything that happens happens by design and there’s nothing we can do about it. A force greater than us conspired to make it happen. Fate, destiny, whatever you wanna call it. The point is, maybe we met for a reason.”
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
A Life-Changing Event
by Christian Go
There wasn’t enough time in class but I would very much like to share my own experience which changed my perception in life. JEEP wasn’t exactly an eye opener for me. I was somewhat aware of their means of living and although it had a few new insights it wasn’t something which brought shock and changed my direction in life.
A few years back, I went into the HIV advocacy. I wanted to do something new and experiment on a complete different social aspect. You hear about education more often in comparison to most advocacies and now something new came up my way. I underwent training to become an official HIV 101 educator and eventually a counsellor for awhile. A counsellor is the person who provides pre and post counselling to the person who undergoes the HIV test to prepare them for the possible outcomes and to provide a de-briefing afterwards.
The event which changed my life was the point when I wanted to give up on the advocacy. It was emotionally draining to receive calls in the middle of the night of people considering taking their own life because they were tested positive. It was taking a toll on me. One of my friends in the advocacy then told me, “Christian, if you don’t do it then who will?” It dawned upon me. He was right. I took on the advocacy knowing the emotional stress it came with. I was about to give up when things were about to get much more difficult. In fact I was about to give up when people needed me the most.
To relate this to the lecture the last few days, I guess the point being I was responsible to look out for people whom I didn’t know. In taking on the advocacy I chose to care for the other without even knowing it. It doesn’t take knowing the other in order to care for the other. Whether it is direct or indirect, we all can do so. I think it’s just how we choose to do it. I think it’s about choosing to recognize these opportunities.
There wasn’t enough time in class but I would very much like to share my own experience which changed my perception in life. JEEP wasn’t exactly an eye opener for me. I was somewhat aware of their means of living and although it had a few new insights it wasn’t something which brought shock and changed my direction in life.
A few years back, I went into the HIV advocacy. I wanted to do something new and experiment on a complete different social aspect. You hear about education more often in comparison to most advocacies and now something new came up my way. I underwent training to become an official HIV 101 educator and eventually a counsellor for awhile. A counsellor is the person who provides pre and post counselling to the person who undergoes the HIV test to prepare them for the possible outcomes and to provide a de-briefing afterwards.
The event which changed my life was the point when I wanted to give up on the advocacy. It was emotionally draining to receive calls in the middle of the night of people considering taking their own life because they were tested positive. It was taking a toll on me. One of my friends in the advocacy then told me, “Christian, if you don’t do it then who will?” It dawned upon me. He was right. I took on the advocacy knowing the emotional stress it came with. I was about to give up when things were about to get much more difficult. In fact I was about to give up when people needed me the most.
To relate this to the lecture the last few days, I guess the point being I was responsible to look out for people whom I didn’t know. In taking on the advocacy I chose to care for the other without even knowing it. It doesn’t take knowing the other in order to care for the other. Whether it is direct or indirect, we all can do so. I think it’s just how we choose to do it. I think it’s about choosing to recognize these opportunities.
On Service, Reciprocity, and Hope
by Astrid Ocampo
19 February 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "Responsibility," Ethics and Infinity
Just recently, I ran for office in the Sanggunian as SOSS Chairperson. Despite several setbacks and trials, the vision of seeing a much more promising student council with the ultimate aim of empowering the students to fully become the Ateneans that they really should become (along with other goals that the Sanggu has really been pushing for) never left me. It was, fundamentally, for service that pushed me to doing, by far, one of the riskiest and boldest things that I have done in my college life.
Much to my dismay, however, I lost. In fact, almost everyone did. Barely anyone reached quota, and all the top positions are left vacant for the lack of votes we garnered. Tragedy struck the Sanggunian having to be exposed to the cruel fact that the School of Social Sciences will function from this point up to the special elections next year without any school board. It was excruciatingly terrifying and alarming to see how certain conditions have to drastically manifest to this. It definitely served as a wake-up call, but more so it also served as base for contemplation and discernment.
Having been involved in this very heartbreaking situation, I fully realized how far rejection can go. I learned how much you can become so committed to something just to make somebody feel happy and content; and despite the refusal to expect anything in return, it still shatters you because it’s as if none of what you have done ever mattered. That nothing was ever enough no matter how hard you push yourself to satisfy the needs of the person you care about most. That there still lacks a certain appreciation or acknowledgment from the other party enough to make you feel that it all leads somewhere.
But I have also realized how that it just doesn’t stop there. That despite the fall, there will always be that lingering feeling to help. That there will always be that reflexive need to express responsibility over the Other, no matter how difficult it is. Although it seems rather sadist to still want to do something despite the lack of reciprocity, having a certain hope and knowing that at some point it still benefits the Other however oblivious he/she is of it, it is already sufficient. That the very thought that you helped and have been helping, whichever way you possibly can, is already one of the most remarkable things you could live with.
And in these principles, I am already at ease. Despite the loss, I never stopped wanting to still be of service. And I know Sanggu’s not the only means to doing that: indeed, I am still going to work for the student council (and I would have to say I really look forward to it), but my organization, MEcO, and several avenues are ways in which I can fully express that desire to still help other people out. And I wouldn’t have felt this if it weren’t for the many others who have also been sharing the same ambitions and sentiments-- for my friends who have been blessed in this year’s elections, for my colleagues who have been defeated by certain circumstances, and for other peers who have shown the dedication to work even in the most pressing times just to assure that the people they serve are happy.
Seeing how prominent this still is has given me so much hope. It’s rejuvenating to see how so many people are still mindful of the welfare of others, and how they are so willing to sacrifice a lot of things exactly for that. It’s really touching to witness how these people exert dignity into their work, not just to provide meaning for their own sake, but also because they find it in their heart to enjoy what they do so the people they care for will enjoy the fruits of it just the same. In this sense, I have become fully aware of the idea of responsibility for the Other as part of human nature-- that it’s an ultimate purpose that just needs to be tapped out of each and every one of us.
For this, I have been equipped with so much optimism. Drawing inspiration from these people and even from the very experiences I have been exposed to, I have learned that whatever struggles that will come my way, I still have to keep moving forward and keep doing the things I need to be doing. Not for me, but for those who surround me.
Because it’s not just about the self, it’s always all about and for the Other.
19 February 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "Responsibility," Ethics and Infinity
Just recently, I ran for office in the Sanggunian as SOSS Chairperson. Despite several setbacks and trials, the vision of seeing a much more promising student council with the ultimate aim of empowering the students to fully become the Ateneans that they really should become (along with other goals that the Sanggu has really been pushing for) never left me. It was, fundamentally, for service that pushed me to doing, by far, one of the riskiest and boldest things that I have done in my college life.
Much to my dismay, however, I lost. In fact, almost everyone did. Barely anyone reached quota, and all the top positions are left vacant for the lack of votes we garnered. Tragedy struck the Sanggunian having to be exposed to the cruel fact that the School of Social Sciences will function from this point up to the special elections next year without any school board. It was excruciatingly terrifying and alarming to see how certain conditions have to drastically manifest to this. It definitely served as a wake-up call, but more so it also served as base for contemplation and discernment.
Having been involved in this very heartbreaking situation, I fully realized how far rejection can go. I learned how much you can become so committed to something just to make somebody feel happy and content; and despite the refusal to expect anything in return, it still shatters you because it’s as if none of what you have done ever mattered. That nothing was ever enough no matter how hard you push yourself to satisfy the needs of the person you care about most. That there still lacks a certain appreciation or acknowledgment from the other party enough to make you feel that it all leads somewhere.
But I have also realized how that it just doesn’t stop there. That despite the fall, there will always be that lingering feeling to help. That there will always be that reflexive need to express responsibility over the Other, no matter how difficult it is. Although it seems rather sadist to still want to do something despite the lack of reciprocity, having a certain hope and knowing that at some point it still benefits the Other however oblivious he/she is of it, it is already sufficient. That the very thought that you helped and have been helping, whichever way you possibly can, is already one of the most remarkable things you could live with.
And in these principles, I am already at ease. Despite the loss, I never stopped wanting to still be of service. And I know Sanggu’s not the only means to doing that: indeed, I am still going to work for the student council (and I would have to say I really look forward to it), but my organization, MEcO, and several avenues are ways in which I can fully express that desire to still help other people out. And I wouldn’t have felt this if it weren’t for the many others who have also been sharing the same ambitions and sentiments-- for my friends who have been blessed in this year’s elections, for my colleagues who have been defeated by certain circumstances, and for other peers who have shown the dedication to work even in the most pressing times just to assure that the people they serve are happy.
Seeing how prominent this still is has given me so much hope. It’s rejuvenating to see how so many people are still mindful of the welfare of others, and how they are so willing to sacrifice a lot of things exactly for that. It’s really touching to witness how these people exert dignity into their work, not just to provide meaning for their own sake, but also because they find it in their heart to enjoy what they do so the people they care for will enjoy the fruits of it just the same. In this sense, I have become fully aware of the idea of responsibility for the Other as part of human nature-- that it’s an ultimate purpose that just needs to be tapped out of each and every one of us.
For this, I have been equipped with so much optimism. Drawing inspiration from these people and even from the very experiences I have been exposed to, I have learned that whatever struggles that will come my way, I still have to keep moving forward and keep doing the things I need to be doing. Not for me, but for those who surround me.
Because it’s not just about the self, it’s always all about and for the Other.
Weakness and Vulnerabliity
Being vulnerable doesn’t make you weak.
In being responsible for the Other, we have to learn how to be vulnerable. Some people see this as a negative thing but because of what I learned in class, I see it as the complete opposite. The word vulnerable comes from the word vulnera, which in Latin, means wound. And that was exactly what I had on the left side of my chest when my ex boyfriend ripped my heart out and broke up with me (I know this is way too dramatic but hey, philosophers like to exaggerate sometimes too, right?). Wounds aren’t beautiful things. They are signs of hurt, imperfection, mistakes, etc. But we tend to forget the most basic thing about wounds: they are open. And that is how we should be too. We should open ourselves to the Other and to the other Others. Once we make ourselves vulnerable and open ourselves up, that is when we can start being responsible to the Other.
---
Dear Other,
Maybe I never should have dated you.
I’m not going to lie and say that we were the perfect couple; we were far from it. Honestly, you were the worst boyfriend I’ve had (but one of the bestest friends I’ve ever had). I wasn't exactly the happiest when I was with you. I felt miserable, used, unimportant, overlooked, underappreciated, and all that, but don’t get me wrong, I still had the time of my life. For some reason, I still managed to find happiness despite all those other feelings. All our good and happy times found a way to cover up all the fights, misunderstandings, and mini break-ups we had. Like all those times we would just stare at each other and end up laughing; the times we would have who-gets-to-sleep-on-whose-lap contests; the times you let me baby you and stroke your hair to fall asleep; the times you let me be grumpy then find a way to cheer me up... Those were the times when I was really truly happy. I thought that that would be enough to keep our relationship going.
But then you slipped even farther away, gave me all these empty promises, threw away all the second chances I gave, and eventually (and so unexpectedly), you just gave up on me -- you gave up on everything. What hurt me the most was knowing I wasn’t worth it. All I asked was that you meet me halfway. It wasn’t fair that I was doing everything to try to keep the relationship going… It wasn’t fair but I didn’t mind. Believe me, I could’ve waited for you to come around for a very very long time. The last thing I wanted was to lose you and that was exactly what happened.
I was depressed, broken, sad, confused, and everything else any normal person would feel after a break up. I tried to hate you and be angry because I thought it would be an easier way to cope with things but I couldn’t find it in myself to do that. Instead, I started hating myself. I beat myself up because I blamed myself for not trying hard enough. I tried to be strong and be normal but fuck that; I wasn't kidding anyone. I broke down and went crazy. I couldn’t eat or sleep. I couldn’t concentrate on doing anything school-related and ended up just spacing out during class. That's when I came up with a theory about us. And for some reason, it made me feel better. It's a bit sad but also strangely comforting at the same time.
You and I, we were never really together. We've always just been best friends but I got in way too deep and you never really jumped in. I understand why you ended it. A relationship is made up of two people and a relationship fails because of both of them. I had my faults too and I accept that now. I tried my best and it was more than enough; just not for you. We just weren't meant to be anything more than best friends. Like I said, we were good that way. I do believe that you love me, just not in the same way that I loved you. But we'll always love each other -- as best friends. You said things that hurt me and left me broken but I realized that I don’t hate you and I'm not angry. And surprisingly, I don’t even hate myself. I realized that I could lose my boyfriend, but there was no way in hell I could lose my best friend.
I won't try to convince you to take me back. We tried it once, put our friendship on the line, and almost lost it. Why would we want to commit the same mistake twice, right? I'm not saying that dating you was a mistake; I just don’t want to risk losing my best friend again.
And it's not like I have to be with you in order to love you and want you to be happy. I've been doing that for years before we decided to take our friendship to another level, and I could do it forever… actually, I will do it forever … or for as long as you let me.
Maybe I never should have dated you. But because I did, I learned how to be a more patient, tolerant, understanding, loving, and vulnerable person.
Maybe I never should have dated you. But I’m thankful I did.
Love,
I.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Initiative
by Kris Calalang
Love is as love does not only as love received.
What has been a week of acceptance and rejections has been a meaningful week to me as well. As I have attended Dr. Angeles talk about love, and having recently read the article of Scott Peck about love also, I have come to see it in a new light.
First of all, as Doc G. said, we must be thinking-feeling beings. Especially when it comes to this, we must constantly think and we must constantly feel. It is never enough to just think, because without the feeling, it will be a sort of objectification( I don't think you will be thinking about it at all), while if it is all feeling and no thinking, the things you will do will be reckless, harming not only you but also the Other. The moment we decide to love however, there is this one question we must ask ourselves, and perhaps this is the most basic question, "Are we prepared to accept the Other? No matter what will happen, no matter what changes?". This is one of the most difficult questions to answer since this question is full of uncertainty. We do not know what will happen in the future, but if we are sure in ourselves that we can handle that change then so be it. Now think about the people who are closest to you, your family, your closest friends and maybe a romantic partner, do you not feel that you can accept them however they may change. And when there is reciprocity, we let our guard down and we let these people see our Face. We present our whole selves, knowing the Other will accept us, and we will accept them.
But that is only the first step, answering the question is never enough, what is needed and probably what is the most important thing of all is action. From thinking-feeling Beings to thinking-feeling-willing Beings. It is as Dr. Angeles said, we must not wait to be loved, we must be the one loving. There is this tendency, and I admit that I did so too, that we tend to wait for other people to love us instead of trying to love people as a start. If we want to become friends with someone or to stay friends with someone, we don't wait for that someone to love us, we love them by doing stuff for them, like a simple help in their problems, or maybe giving them a push they need. A simple act can go so far. And even if the someone does not reciprocate do not fear, do not regret that you have loved someone. As in our lesson of the responsibility of the Other, the Other's responsibility of you is their own affair, what is important is for you to be responsible to the Other. Loving is its own reward, and you will be surprised that it is much much more reciprocated than not.
And a last reminder (since Valentine's Day did just pass) for those who have a special someone or plan to ask their special someone out in the near future, do not be afraid to take the leap after thinking about it. As philosophers may not be constrained by time, time still does go on for everyone. Just do it. "Lundagin mo" bago pa mahuli ang lahat.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Between Intentions and Actions
by Ton Sewell
14 February 2013
The topic of the Other is quite interesting to me, I cannot deny that. There is one thing I have to ask, what if I do not want to be responsible for the Other? Do not get me wrong, I do believe that we are all responsible for each other in some way or another, but I am sure that there are times we do not wish to have a hand in whatever goes on in the life of the Other. Allow me to present the 2 sides of the coin as to how I see my responsibility for the Other.
The Other that we all know and love.
It is all well and good when we talk about how our parents have been responsible for us even when we do not have to ask. I also believe that it is safe to say that we too are responsible for our parents in a way. They send us to school, we bring home good results. They feed us, we tell them it is yummy. I am sure you're seeing what I am getting at. We are responsible for them in as much as they are responsible for us. This holds true not just to our parents, but our friends and everyone around us. This is the kind of responsibility we know to be nice and rewarding. We are proud, in a sense, to be responsible.
What about the Other we do not want to be responsible for?
Yes, I do agree that we all are responsible for the Other, but what if we do not want to be or at least not for an instance? Allow me to pose my argument with a scenario. Let us say you find yourself at a stoplight in the busy streets of Manila and you find a street kid (maybe around the age of 12?) coming to your window begging for alms. You gladly oblige by donating 5 pesos you see lying in your car's cup holder. Just as you pull away you see the kid buy a cigarette and begins smoking it. Now I have to ask, are you responsible for that kid? Are you the one who put that cigarette in his mouth by enabling him with that 5 pesos you put in his hand?
The path to hell is paved with good intentions.
This is where it is difficult to draw the line; between Intentions and Actions.
14 February 2013
The topic of the Other is quite interesting to me, I cannot deny that. There is one thing I have to ask, what if I do not want to be responsible for the Other? Do not get me wrong, I do believe that we are all responsible for each other in some way or another, but I am sure that there are times we do not wish to have a hand in whatever goes on in the life of the Other. Allow me to present the 2 sides of the coin as to how I see my responsibility for the Other.
The Other that we all know and love.
It is all well and good when we talk about how our parents have been responsible for us even when we do not have to ask. I also believe that it is safe to say that we too are responsible for our parents in a way. They send us to school, we bring home good results. They feed us, we tell them it is yummy. I am sure you're seeing what I am getting at. We are responsible for them in as much as they are responsible for us. This holds true not just to our parents, but our friends and everyone around us. This is the kind of responsibility we know to be nice and rewarding. We are proud, in a sense, to be responsible.
What about the Other we do not want to be responsible for?
Yes, I do agree that we all are responsible for the Other, but what if we do not want to be or at least not for an instance? Allow me to pose my argument with a scenario. Let us say you find yourself at a stoplight in the busy streets of Manila and you find a street kid (maybe around the age of 12?) coming to your window begging for alms. You gladly oblige by donating 5 pesos you see lying in your car's cup holder. Just as you pull away you see the kid buy a cigarette and begins smoking it. Now I have to ask, are you responsible for that kid? Are you the one who put that cigarette in his mouth by enabling him with that 5 pesos you put in his hand?
The path to hell is paved with good intentions.
This is where it is difficult to draw the line; between Intentions and Actions.
Monday, February 11, 2013
No Longer A Beggar
by Hye Won Kang
On Thursday night on my way home, I was heading to the LRT station. Just like any other days, a beggar (actually, I don’t want to name him a beggar but forgive me, I have to for the sake of my blog post) was sitting at the side of the road begging. Normally, I would get some coins and drop them into a cup he is holding. However that night, all I had was a piece of bread. I grabbed it and bent a bit to hand him bread I had. It was that moment… I faced him. I looked at his eyes for the first time. I used to drop some coins and just passed by. I don’t know how to express the feeling I had, but when I faced him, he was no longer a beggar. Yes, he was begging but regardless of that, he was a human being just like me who needs food, security, friends, and love.
When I handed him bread, he gave me a smile which I would like to describe as “innocent”. It was a sort of smile that came out from the heart. And, I smiled too (Was it ‘innocent’? I am not sure). On my way home, I wondered what made him smile. What I gave him was just a piece of bread that would never fill his stomach. It would never solve the problems he has. It would never change his life. I thought it over and over again. Perhaps, it wasn’t the bread that made him smile, but my attention.
I have always thought that what beggars need is just money and food. Yes, they need them. But what do they desire? We never care to think about what they desire. Probably, it is attention, care, and love that they really desire. When people notice beggars, they pretend they did not see them and ignore them or just give them some coins unwillingly just because they are ‘beggars’. The beggar I met on the way to the LRT is there every day begging and many people pass that road but how many people actually attend to him? I bet less than 10. I remember the times when I just ignored him pretending that I didn’t see him or I am in a hurry whenever I didn’t feel like helping him. Just because they are beggars, they are abused as a human being. In a way, this is their life, the reality that they can’t avoid.
When I looked at him into his eyes, I felt like he is demanding – demanding me, my attention, and my help. I couldn’t help but to ponder upon what I could do for him. Ignoring him who demands you is actually ‘killing him’. We should respond to the commandment in the appearance of the face, “Thou shalt not kill”. I am responsible for him. You are responsible for him. We are responsible for him. This is what I realized on that night.
What makes beggars, the beggars? Is it them begging? No, ironically, it is the society or people that name them as ‘beggars’ and confine them within that context. In fact, they are no different from us. They need what we need, they desire what we desire, and they demand what we demand as human being. We have to face them and when we do, they are no longer a beggar. They are one of us.
On Thursday night on my way home, I was heading to the LRT station. Just like any other days, a beggar (actually, I don’t want to name him a beggar but forgive me, I have to for the sake of my blog post) was sitting at the side of the road begging. Normally, I would get some coins and drop them into a cup he is holding. However that night, all I had was a piece of bread. I grabbed it and bent a bit to hand him bread I had. It was that moment… I faced him. I looked at his eyes for the first time. I used to drop some coins and just passed by. I don’t know how to express the feeling I had, but when I faced him, he was no longer a beggar. Yes, he was begging but regardless of that, he was a human being just like me who needs food, security, friends, and love.
When I handed him bread, he gave me a smile which I would like to describe as “innocent”. It was a sort of smile that came out from the heart. And, I smiled too (Was it ‘innocent’? I am not sure). On my way home, I wondered what made him smile. What I gave him was just a piece of bread that would never fill his stomach. It would never solve the problems he has. It would never change his life. I thought it over and over again. Perhaps, it wasn’t the bread that made him smile, but my attention.
I have always thought that what beggars need is just money and food. Yes, they need them. But what do they desire? We never care to think about what they desire. Probably, it is attention, care, and love that they really desire. When people notice beggars, they pretend they did not see them and ignore them or just give them some coins unwillingly just because they are ‘beggars’. The beggar I met on the way to the LRT is there every day begging and many people pass that road but how many people actually attend to him? I bet less than 10. I remember the times when I just ignored him pretending that I didn’t see him or I am in a hurry whenever I didn’t feel like helping him. Just because they are beggars, they are abused as a human being. In a way, this is their life, the reality that they can’t avoid.
When I looked at him into his eyes, I felt like he is demanding – demanding me, my attention, and my help. I couldn’t help but to ponder upon what I could do for him. Ignoring him who demands you is actually ‘killing him’. We should respond to the commandment in the appearance of the face, “Thou shalt not kill”. I am responsible for him. You are responsible for him. We are responsible for him. This is what I realized on that night.
What makes beggars, the beggars? Is it them begging? No, ironically, it is the society or people that name them as ‘beggars’ and confine them within that context. In fact, they are no different from us. They need what we need, they desire what we desire, and they demand what we demand as human being. We have to face them and when we do, they are no longer a beggar. They are one of us.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Enslaved To Be Freed
by Steffie Castaneda
7 February 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "Responsibility," Ethics and Infinity
Hearing the word responsibility nowadays often makes me want to cringe. It sickens me because I feel I have had too much already. Eight classes to look after for a whole semester demands so much of time. And it does not stop just yet, because I know I have other more responsibilities to carry. More responsibilities to challenge me.More responsibilities to burden me.
More responsibilities to enslave me.
One night, just recently I was alone at our terrace, busy practicing solving problems for a physics long test on the following day. Far as I was from done, I was so worried that I didn’t want to take a few minutes of my time if it’s not for something that will draw me closer to finishing my task. But just when I thought everyone at home was already asleep,assured no one will disturb me, my cousin unexpectedly goes out and sits in front of me.
I was surprised. I can’t just ignore her and keep on solving, so I stopped.
Hostage, though seemingly exaggerated of a term for this kind of situation, was used by Levinas to refer to the experience of being claimed by the Other, as if besieging us, or persecuting us. It is as if the Other is accusing, or imprisoning us of something we were not even aware of. There is a command to serve him, to be responsible for him. This brings out the vulnerability of the I that did not choose to respond in the first place, but wasnevertheless affected by the Other and so has committed to respond.
had to stop because I know my cousin wouldn’t just sit in front of me to reflect/relax/meditate/pray etc. I had to surrender a portion of my time and lend a listening ear to her. And in that situation, I ought to be more listening than talking or commenting because it seemed more appropriate for what she was about to tell me.
Hearing her expressing how tired and worn out she was with her work, just as I was too, I vulnerably gave in further to the command for my ears to catch her words, my mind to de-center, my heart to share the weight, my soul to reach out, even if all means taking as much as she needs of my time that could have been spent for sleeping and studying. The conversation lasted for about 30 minutes, but it did not just stop yet because it made me reflect after for a few minutes more.
Many times, we choose for things to go our own way. But it cannot always follow that way simply because we cannot take control of everything. Things can unexpectedly shift in direction, and this is what makes us vulnerable, especially in the context of the Other who suddenly and unexpectedly approaches us to demand, as if in a claim to serve him/her for something we were not accountable for. It demands us to “substitute for the Other”in a fault that wasn’t ours in the first place.
And what is most ironic about that situation is that it does not seek to enslave you, but free you. This is the most wonderful realization I owe to Levinas after having listened to Dr. Garcia’s lecture last Thursday. Looking back at my experience,I now find that sense of gratitude and rewardfrom that very moment I was seized to carry on another responsibility, in addition to my already many responsibilities. It one was a special kind, because what seemed to enslave me at first--considering the state I was in that time--was now,I realize in amazement, a ratherfreeingone. It was a freeing one because itallowed me to get out of myself and reach out to the Other.To quote Hammarskjöld, it was as if “the way chose me”to reach out and share the burden of the Other, not just my own, and for that I am truly blessed and grateful because it brought out the good and the love in me
7 February 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "Responsibility," Ethics and Infinity
Hearing the word responsibility nowadays often makes me want to cringe. It sickens me because I feel I have had too much already. Eight classes to look after for a whole semester demands so much of time. And it does not stop just yet, because I know I have other more responsibilities to carry. More responsibilities to challenge me.More responsibilities to burden me.
More responsibilities to enslave me.
One night, just recently I was alone at our terrace, busy practicing solving problems for a physics long test on the following day. Far as I was from done, I was so worried that I didn’t want to take a few minutes of my time if it’s not for something that will draw me closer to finishing my task. But just when I thought everyone at home was already asleep,assured no one will disturb me, my cousin unexpectedly goes out and sits in front of me.
I was surprised. I can’t just ignore her and keep on solving, so I stopped.
Hostage, though seemingly exaggerated of a term for this kind of situation, was used by Levinas to refer to the experience of being claimed by the Other, as if besieging us, or persecuting us. It is as if the Other is accusing, or imprisoning us of something we were not even aware of. There is a command to serve him, to be responsible for him. This brings out the vulnerability of the I that did not choose to respond in the first place, but wasnevertheless affected by the Other and so has committed to respond.
had to stop because I know my cousin wouldn’t just sit in front of me to reflect/relax/meditate/pray etc. I had to surrender a portion of my time and lend a listening ear to her. And in that situation, I ought to be more listening than talking or commenting because it seemed more appropriate for what she was about to tell me.
Hearing her expressing how tired and worn out she was with her work, just as I was too, I vulnerably gave in further to the command for my ears to catch her words, my mind to de-center, my heart to share the weight, my soul to reach out, even if all means taking as much as she needs of my time that could have been spent for sleeping and studying. The conversation lasted for about 30 minutes, but it did not just stop yet because it made me reflect after for a few minutes more.
Many times, we choose for things to go our own way. But it cannot always follow that way simply because we cannot take control of everything. Things can unexpectedly shift in direction, and this is what makes us vulnerable, especially in the context of the Other who suddenly and unexpectedly approaches us to demand, as if in a claim to serve him/her for something we were not accountable for. It demands us to “substitute for the Other”in a fault that wasn’t ours in the first place.
And what is most ironic about that situation is that it does not seek to enslave you, but free you. This is the most wonderful realization I owe to Levinas after having listened to Dr. Garcia’s lecture last Thursday. Looking back at my experience,I now find that sense of gratitude and rewardfrom that very moment I was seized to carry on another responsibility, in addition to my already many responsibilities. It one was a special kind, because what seemed to enslave me at first--considering the state I was in that time--was now,I realize in amazement, a ratherfreeingone. It was a freeing one because itallowed me to get out of myself and reach out to the Other.To quote Hammarskjöld, it was as if “the way chose me”to reach out and share the burden of the Other, not just my own, and for that I am truly blessed and grateful because it brought out the good and the love in me
Picking Up The Pieces
by Mima Mendoza
All their lives, all the time, just…how do you stop seeing it?
The discussion about substitution last Thursday reminded me of one of the most heartbreaking scenes in Stephen Chbosky’s book and film, The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Charlie, the eponymous wallflower, goes into therapy for sexual abuse at the near-end of the movie. He asks his doctor how to “stop it”, and when his doctor requests that Charlie clarify (“Stop what?”), this is Charlie’s response:
When you love other people, you will always want to see them smiling, laughing, having absolutely no care in the world. You will always want what’s best for them, for them to reach their dreams and have the best life possible. But sadly, the world does not run on Disney scripts, and we can’t all have happy endings. We get hurt over and over again. Watching at the sidelines as this cruel world unleashes sadness and pain onto the people you love is the most difficult thing you could ever experience. You want nothing more than to take that pain away and see your loved ones smile and be happy again, to the point that you look up, raise your arms towards the sky and yell: “Don’t hurt them! Hurt me instead!”
Levinas’ concept of substitution is not merely about replacing the Other with yourself in order to feel what they feel. It’s not about needing to help, but rather about desiring to help. Substitution is, at the core of it all, about standing for the Other. It involves bringing solace to the Other through your own humanity, helping the Other carry his weight, sacrificing your own comforts, your own self. Substitution is not trading your place for the Other, being the Other, but rather drawing the Other near. Ultimately, it is not about being hurt instead of them, but rather helping them through their hurt, knowing full well that you’re being hurt as well.
We must accept that the world is a brutal and unpleasant place to be, and that those we love are sometimes weak and are definitely finite. We are only human, after all, flawed and imperfect and jagged and maybe even broken. As long as we breathe, there will be failure and pain and despair everywhere. But being human is not about being perfect. It’s about taking the hand of the others around you, loving them, hoping with them, and comforting them through this vicious yet equally beautiful world. It’s about bearing each other’s burdens, helping each other through each heartache, one breath at a time. It’s about picking the pieces up of your selves together, making it up as you go along.
All their lives, all the time, just…how do you stop seeing it?
The discussion about substitution last Thursday reminded me of one of the most heartbreaking scenes in Stephen Chbosky’s book and film, The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Charlie, the eponymous wallflower, goes into therapy for sexual abuse at the near-end of the movie. He asks his doctor how to “stop it”, and when his doctor requests that Charlie clarify (“Stop what?”), this is Charlie’s response:
 |
| credit goes to kingblaine.tumblr.com |
When you love other people, you will always want to see them smiling, laughing, having absolutely no care in the world. You will always want what’s best for them, for them to reach their dreams and have the best life possible. But sadly, the world does not run on Disney scripts, and we can’t all have happy endings. We get hurt over and over again. Watching at the sidelines as this cruel world unleashes sadness and pain onto the people you love is the most difficult thing you could ever experience. You want nothing more than to take that pain away and see your loved ones smile and be happy again, to the point that you look up, raise your arms towards the sky and yell: “Don’t hurt them! Hurt me instead!”
Levinas’ concept of substitution is not merely about replacing the Other with yourself in order to feel what they feel. It’s not about needing to help, but rather about desiring to help. Substitution is, at the core of it all, about standing for the Other. It involves bringing solace to the Other through your own humanity, helping the Other carry his weight, sacrificing your own comforts, your own self. Substitution is not trading your place for the Other, being the Other, but rather drawing the Other near. Ultimately, it is not about being hurt instead of them, but rather helping them through their hurt, knowing full well that you’re being hurt as well.
We must accept that the world is a brutal and unpleasant place to be, and that those we love are sometimes weak and are definitely finite. We are only human, after all, flawed and imperfect and jagged and maybe even broken. As long as we breathe, there will be failure and pain and despair everywhere. But being human is not about being perfect. It’s about taking the hand of the others around you, loving them, hoping with them, and comforting them through this vicious yet equally beautiful world. It’s about bearing each other’s burdens, helping each other through each heartache, one breath at a time. It’s about picking the pieces up of your selves together, making it up as you go along.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Love Responsibly
by Cinta Posadas
Because it is that time of year.
I am generally a very “cheesy” person -- I get kilig quite easily and I am a sucker for romantic-comedies, silly love songs, and sweet nothings. Which is why I couldn’t help but smile when we learned about Levinas’ concept of “Responsibility as Substitution”. This substitution refers to us being responsible for the faults and sufferings of the Other.
Levinas says that there is nothing voluntary about this substitution, meaning it is not our choice to be responsible for the Other, it just happens. Think of it as when someone asks you, “Why do you even like him/her?”, and you simply say, “I just do.” *insert kilig moment here* It is in this liking or being attracted to another that the Other has made a “claim” on us. It is as if we have become “prisoners of love”, in a way -- “the Other has already claimed me”. A romantic notion, don’t you think?
We have to take charge of the sufferings and faults of the Other, meaning we have to be responsible for things that we did not commit. It is the fault of the Other, and not ours, that the Other is the way the Other is -- someone we think of as “the one” for us, someone we want to spend time with, be with, and grow old with. *insert another kilig moment here* And as Levinas calls us to be responsible for the Other, he also tells us that we actually have to be in action in that words are not enough. It is not enough to think about doing something for the Other, it is not enough to say you will do something for the Other. We have to put our thoughts and words into action.
“Love is not
merely the uttering of words but in doing.”
Spread the love...the Levinas way. This season of “lovey-dovey-ness” be responsible. Take responsibility and act upon your thoughts about that certain someone you’ve been eyeing all this time. Gather up the courage and ask him out for lunch or dinner. Surprise her by cooking her favorite dish. Join him in playing his favorite video game or sport. Sing her a song or ask her to dance. Take the chance and show the Other how you feel.
Because it is that time of year.
I am generally a very “cheesy” person -- I get kilig quite easily and I am a sucker for romantic-comedies, silly love songs, and sweet nothings. Which is why I couldn’t help but smile when we learned about Levinas’ concept of “Responsibility as Substitution”. This substitution refers to us being responsible for the faults and sufferings of the Other.
Levinas says that there is nothing voluntary about this substitution, meaning it is not our choice to be responsible for the Other, it just happens. Think of it as when someone asks you, “Why do you even like him/her?”, and you simply say, “I just do.” *insert kilig moment here* It is in this liking or being attracted to another that the Other has made a “claim” on us. It is as if we have become “prisoners of love”, in a way -- “the Other has already claimed me”. A romantic notion, don’t you think?
You've already won me over in spite of me /
And don't be alarmed if I fall head over feet
And don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are / I couldn't help it / It's all your fault
(“Head Over Feet” by Alanis Morissette)
We have to take charge of the sufferings and faults of the Other, meaning we have to be responsible for things that we did not commit. It is the fault of the Other, and not ours, that the Other is the way the Other is -- someone we think of as “the one” for us, someone we want to spend time with, be with, and grow old with. *insert another kilig moment here* And as Levinas calls us to be responsible for the Other, he also tells us that we actually have to be in action in that words are not enough. It is not enough to think about doing something for the Other, it is not enough to say you will do something for the Other. We have to put our thoughts and words into action.
“Love is not
merely the uttering of words but in doing.”
Spread the love...the Levinas way. This season of “lovey-dovey-ness” be responsible. Take responsibility and act upon your thoughts about that certain someone you’ve been eyeing all this time. Gather up the courage and ask him out for lunch or dinner. Surprise her by cooking her favorite dish. Join him in playing his favorite video game or sport. Sing her a song or ask her to dance. Take the chance and show the Other how you feel.
The Power of Vulnerability
by Kyle Pandapatan
I wanted to share with you one of my favorite talks of all time, she speaks of how the "I" can gain the courage to connect with the others in our lives.
CONNECTION. Shame undoes connection. "Is there something about me that if other people find out about it, I won't we worthy of connection?" Vulnerability opens you to human connection.
"People who have a strong sense of love & belonging: believe they are worthy, that's it." What do they have in common? How do we learn to embrace vulnerability? She shares her 10 years of research in this story-telling talk.
Having watched this a long time ago, I can say I've a long way to go to master practicing this in daily life. (But I'm working on improving - cue Jordin Sparks' song, "One Step at a Time").
Discussing it is different from applying it and living it after all. However, becoming aware is the first step to the right actions - which is what I believe the philosophy we're learning is trying to do.
CONNECTION. Shame undoes connection. "Is there something about me that if other people find out about it, I won't we worthy of connection?" Vulnerability opens you to human connection.
"People who have a strong sense of love & belonging: believe they are worthy, that's it." What do they have in common? How do we learn to embrace vulnerability? She shares her 10 years of research in this story-telling talk.
Having watched this a long time ago, I can say I've a long way to go to master practicing this in daily life. (But I'm working on improving - cue Jordin Sparks' song, "One Step at a Time").
Discussing it is different from applying it and living it after all. However, becoming aware is the first step to the right actions - which is what I believe the philosophy we're learning is trying to do.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Curfew
by Erika Cruz
It’s 1:00am. Dad is on his way to get me. Time to go home.
I’m already 20 years old but I still have a curfew and my friends tease me about it. Honestly, it pisses me off that I do not get to stay out with friends really late at night. But when my dad gives a curfew, it should be followed. If it entails him to be the one to get me and drive me home, then it shall be done. So this leads me to ask, “Where is my freedom?” “Why does dad have to be over protective?”
Don’t get me wrong. My dad is not totally an authoritative father and our relationship is at a level where I have found a friend in him. Since my dad and I are close enough to talk about almost anything, I had the courage to ask him during one of our random conversations in the car why he would always give me a curfew when technically I am already an adult.
He gently answered, “Anak, hindi kasi ako makatulog pag alam kong wala ka pa sa bahay.”
Aaaand his mask was off. That was dad answering me with his “strict/overprotective” mask off, showing his vulnerability. That answer allowed me to see beyond the strict voiced father on the phone asking me what time he should get me from an event. This was my father’s Face I was seeing, exposed and free of poses.
How do I respond to this?
As a daughter, my natural response to the over protectiveness of my father is to act in violence by picking a fight or by bombarding him with more questions. I could simply answer back, "Eh, puwede ka naman matulog na! You don't need to wait for me to get home!" However, if I allow myself to think about my dad, who in this case is the Other, another response can be that of acceptance and wonder. I just have to accept that trying to fully grasp the reason for my father’s "over protectiveness" will only lead me to be frustrated because it is something I will not experience until the possibility of becoming a parent is realized in my life.
By choosing to respond with acceptance, I was able to look back to my past experiences and realize how selfless my father had been. He did not need to wait for me to get home when I came home late from an event but he did. When my friends could have brought me home, he did not need to get me and be the one to drive me home but he still did even if he had a tiring day. By choosing to be ethical and not respond violently, I am made to see the truth. I am loved by my father.
Thus, even with a curfew, I am free. I may not have the kind of freedom that will allow me to choose whatever time I want to go home. But I do have the freedom to respond in love. Maybe some of you would say, “Binobola mo lang sarili mo” or that I am making excuses for my dad so that I will not feel miserable about having a curfew. Of course I’ll still try to get that curfew moved to a later time and hopefully get rid of it in the future. But for now, the best way to handle this is to see beyond my father’s actions and try to communicate openly as much as possible. It is the only way for me to really see my dad face to face and to also remind myself that beyond his role as a father and protector in my life, he is fundamentally a human being who loves. It is only when we allow ourselves to become vulnerable to one another that we are able to see rightly without judgement or pretense... It is only then we are able to truly love.
It’s 1:00am. Dad is on his way to get me. Time to go home.
I’m already 20 years old but I still have a curfew and my friends tease me about it. Honestly, it pisses me off that I do not get to stay out with friends really late at night. But when my dad gives a curfew, it should be followed. If it entails him to be the one to get me and drive me home, then it shall be done. So this leads me to ask, “Where is my freedom?” “Why does dad have to be over protective?”
Don’t get me wrong. My dad is not totally an authoritative father and our relationship is at a level where I have found a friend in him. Since my dad and I are close enough to talk about almost anything, I had the courage to ask him during one of our random conversations in the car why he would always give me a curfew when technically I am already an adult.
He gently answered, “Anak, hindi kasi ako makatulog pag alam kong wala ka pa sa bahay.”
Aaaand his mask was off. That was dad answering me with his “strict/overprotective” mask off, showing his vulnerability. That answer allowed me to see beyond the strict voiced father on the phone asking me what time he should get me from an event. This was my father’s Face I was seeing, exposed and free of poses.
How do I respond to this?
As a daughter, my natural response to the over protectiveness of my father is to act in violence by picking a fight or by bombarding him with more questions. I could simply answer back, "Eh, puwede ka naman matulog na! You don't need to wait for me to get home!" However, if I allow myself to think about my dad, who in this case is the Other, another response can be that of acceptance and wonder. I just have to accept that trying to fully grasp the reason for my father’s "over protectiveness" will only lead me to be frustrated because it is something I will not experience until the possibility of becoming a parent is realized in my life.
By choosing to respond with acceptance, I was able to look back to my past experiences and realize how selfless my father had been. He did not need to wait for me to get home when I came home late from an event but he did. When my friends could have brought me home, he did not need to get me and be the one to drive me home but he still did even if he had a tiring day. By choosing to be ethical and not respond violently, I am made to see the truth. I am loved by my father.
Thus, even with a curfew, I am free. I may not have the kind of freedom that will allow me to choose whatever time I want to go home. But I do have the freedom to respond in love. Maybe some of you would say, “Binobola mo lang sarili mo” or that I am making excuses for my dad so that I will not feel miserable about having a curfew. Of course I’ll still try to get that curfew moved to a later time and hopefully get rid of it in the future. But for now, the best way to handle this is to see beyond my father’s actions and try to communicate openly as much as possible. It is the only way for me to really see my dad face to face and to also remind myself that beyond his role as a father and protector in my life, he is fundamentally a human being who loves. It is only when we allow ourselves to become vulnerable to one another that we are able to see rightly without judgement or pretense... It is only then we are able to truly love.
Defacing The Other
by Justine Dinglasan
The front-page of today’s International Herald Tribune brought me to contemplate on the Other as Face. Plastered on the newspaper is a group of Tibetans at the Tibetan People’s Solidarity Campaign in New Delhi, India. Long-oppressed by Chinese rule in their country, these Tibetans continue to rally for the world’s attention to the severe deprivation of freedom in Tibet. The method by which they seek priority in international affairs is one of extraordinary measures—self-immolation.
Since 2009, ninety-nine Tibetans have resorted to setting themselves on fire in dissent towards a harsh Chinese regime. Without the right to freedom of speech or political protest in their country, they turn to the fiery spectacle of self-immolation to further their cause. Although extraordinary, this particular act of protest is not one entirely uncommon to the world. In fact, what propelled the historic Arab Spring in 2011 was the self-immolation of Tunisian vegetable vendor Mohammed Bouazizi who, like the Tibetans, faced grave oppression by political authorities.
What is it about setting oneself ablaze that makes it such an iconic symbol of protest? Apart from the gripping display of flames, self-immolation represents something else, the defacing of oneself or in our perspective, the defacing of the Other.
When Levinas speaks about seeing the Other as Face, he pertains to not seeing the Other as an object. The Face, as we discussed in class, is not an actual face but rather, a synecdoche for the whole human person. In that case, even the back of one’s head can be perceived as Face. While noticing first the eyes, nose, and mouth of a person is tantamount to objectifying a person.
One can argue that although the metaphor of the Face is symbolic of the Other as human being, it is a paradox in itself. Aren’t the eyes, nose, and mouth what makes a face a face? How then can we see the Face without actually seeing the parts which form it? What is a face without its features?
However what Levinas tries to reveal is that it is specifically these features that lead us to superficial conclusions about the Other. We immediately see the physical aspects of our Being that distinguish us, that make us unique. Quickly we pass judgment on others by categorizing them as beautiful or not and using these categories as evidence for their worth.
In the engulfment of flames, the Other is defaced. Torturously, the immolator loses his or her face and body to fire. It is during this act of self-defiance that the Other behind categories of poor, uneducated, oppressed and unworthy emerges. Similarly it is not the face which we turn to see but the expression it reveals to us. As in the case of Mohammed Bouazizi, it was in his self-immolation that the world turned to finally face him as Other.
I think this is what the Tibetans aim to achieve in their protests. They aim to deface themselves in order to be seen as Face by the Chinese authorities primarily. They beckon us to realize our shared humanity, our being in Being. Through this, we direct our consciousness beyond ourselves. We turn to face the Other as Face.
Source: Yardley, Jim. "If Self-immolation Doesn't Work, Then What?" International Herald Tribune: The Global Edition of the New York Times [New York] 4 Feb. 2013, February 4, 2013 ed., 1 and 4 sec.: 1+. Print.
The front-page of today’s International Herald Tribune brought me to contemplate on the Other as Face. Plastered on the newspaper is a group of Tibetans at the Tibetan People’s Solidarity Campaign in New Delhi, India. Long-oppressed by Chinese rule in their country, these Tibetans continue to rally for the world’s attention to the severe deprivation of freedom in Tibet. The method by which they seek priority in international affairs is one of extraordinary measures—self-immolation.
Since 2009, ninety-nine Tibetans have resorted to setting themselves on fire in dissent towards a harsh Chinese regime. Without the right to freedom of speech or political protest in their country, they turn to the fiery spectacle of self-immolation to further their cause. Although extraordinary, this particular act of protest is not one entirely uncommon to the world. In fact, what propelled the historic Arab Spring in 2011 was the self-immolation of Tunisian vegetable vendor Mohammed Bouazizi who, like the Tibetans, faced grave oppression by political authorities.
What is it about setting oneself ablaze that makes it such an iconic symbol of protest? Apart from the gripping display of flames, self-immolation represents something else, the defacing of oneself or in our perspective, the defacing of the Other.
When Levinas speaks about seeing the Other as Face, he pertains to not seeing the Other as an object. The Face, as we discussed in class, is not an actual face but rather, a synecdoche for the whole human person. In that case, even the back of one’s head can be perceived as Face. While noticing first the eyes, nose, and mouth of a person is tantamount to objectifying a person.
One can argue that although the metaphor of the Face is symbolic of the Other as human being, it is a paradox in itself. Aren’t the eyes, nose, and mouth what makes a face a face? How then can we see the Face without actually seeing the parts which form it? What is a face without its features?
However what Levinas tries to reveal is that it is specifically these features that lead us to superficial conclusions about the Other. We immediately see the physical aspects of our Being that distinguish us, that make us unique. Quickly we pass judgment on others by categorizing them as beautiful or not and using these categories as evidence for their worth.
In the engulfment of flames, the Other is defaced. Torturously, the immolator loses his or her face and body to fire. It is during this act of self-defiance that the Other behind categories of poor, uneducated, oppressed and unworthy emerges. Similarly it is not the face which we turn to see but the expression it reveals to us. As in the case of Mohammed Bouazizi, it was in his self-immolation that the world turned to finally face him as Other.
I think this is what the Tibetans aim to achieve in their protests. They aim to deface themselves in order to be seen as Face by the Chinese authorities primarily. They beckon us to realize our shared humanity, our being in Being. Through this, we direct our consciousness beyond ourselves. We turn to face the Other as Face.
Stating The Obvious
by Justine Dinglasan
Think about others.
It’s not always about you.
Decentralize.
To be honest, philosophy and I didn’t get off on the right foot. Yes, David Foster Wallace made sense. Yes, his address spoke to me. Perhaps this is water, but surely, I’ve heard that before.
In a single well-constructed speech, he had summed up values from kindergarten (and a certain purple dinosaur), insights from Sunday homilies, sermons from my parents, and everyday experiences. All of which comprise what I consider basic knowledge; to some extent even, simple common sense.
These life lessons aren’t at all inaccessible. I mean, Amir eventually stood up for Hassan in The Kite Runner because he realized the world doesn’t revolve around him. Harry Potter didn’t exploit his prestige as “the chosen one”. Instead he risked his life inexorably for the betterment of wizardkind. If fictional characters grasp life’s value and choose to live it out for others, shouldn’t we be able to?
Deep down aren’t we all aware of this capability?
Almost suddenly, it became clear to me. Philosophy, a kind of light, had finally penetrated my arrogance.
Yes, we are aware of this choice. However, more often than not, our awareness is deep down. It is hidden, obscured by thoughts we deem more significant. This consciousness is an untapped resource—invaluable but untouched.
“Philosophy is an explicitation of the obvious” because the obvious is what we don’t see. David Foster Wallace and Dr. Garcia are right. We’re too preoccupied with trivial concerns that we often overlook values we picked up in pre-school or moments of revelation in our own experiences. Choosing to be aware makes all the difference. Philosophy opens our minds to this choice. Reflection permits us to look deep into our most disappointing experiences to draw out what is always salvageable, ourselves.
Philosophy and I may have had a rough start. Now however, I’d like to believe that we’ve become good friends.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Magister
by Mateo Escueta
A reflection inspired by the epiphany of the face by Emmanuel Levinas
We’ve learned much about the epiphany of the face by Emmanuel Levinas. Looking at face of the other is not merely a stare, but more of a gaze of awe and wonder, acknowledging that the person is an Other, a human being who has a life teeming with infinite possibilities just like you.
Sir Eddieboy Calasanz wrote that when we look at the other’s face, we don’t just see the eyes or that wonderful smile, but the loob or kalooban of the other. What’s more striking is that Calasanz later on says that when we are moved by the other after gazing at their face, the call to service is heard. Ikaw muna or kayo muna, Calasanz described it as. Thus is the call to responsibility to the other and we are called to sacrifice.
And thus we have the teacher. My high school Latin recalls the word “magister”, a word that to me sounds as powerful and glorious as the Latin word “dominus”, which is master or lord. We owe much to our teachers. No, let me rephrase that – we are indebted to our teachers. Isn’t it funny how perhaps the most influential and selfless profession is undervalued and seen as thankless?But take a moment and think on Levinas’s epiphany of the face and tie that to how a teacher painstakingly, lovingly and passionately gives of himself for the learning and growth of the naïve student. What we have here is a true example of selfless love and service to the other.
The teacher is the best example of an infinite human person who takes it upon himself or herself to reach out and mold the young human person into the best he or she could ever be. Theirs is a story of a beautiful sacrifice, an obligation they willingly put upon themselves. Nobody asked them to teach students for a living and give their comprehensive yes and commitment to such profession. But I guess the fulfillment and sense of wonder in teaching the other is one that is unparalleled. As romantic as it sounds, I believe a good teacher can make a definitive impact on the lives of their students and leave them with lessons and experiences that they will take with them beyond the walls of the classroom.
While not all teachers are the inspiring characters we’d prefer to have the privilege of being students of all the time, they are in a position where they experience the epiphany of the face on a deeper degree as they guide, teach and mentor their dear students. Let’s be honest, teachers don’t get paid much, but I believe the fulfillment and sense of accomplishment is priceless and that is what keeps them at it.
I fondly remember my beloved teachers from PAREF Southridge School, where I had the blessing to have such passionate, inspiring and committed teachers. I remember the greats and my beloved teachers: Manny Escasa, who taught me third year world history, Ed Valmorida, my fourth year class adviser and economics teacher, Buboy Sumulong, who taught me Philippine history and Latin, brilliant minds in English and literature Dino Peralta, Benjie Torralba and Eugene Salazar, my chemistry and physics professor Raymond Ganar, the wise Juanito Sese and Chito Flores, my ever patient math teachers PJ Gonzales, Francis Ong and Ariel Marcera, my biology teacher Botchok Del Rosario and my beloved grade school teachers George Carandang, Luis Barrientos, Dennis Holgado, Norman Charvet and Joseph Espejo. Of course there is my mentor, Rutch Regencia and my varsity basketball coach Ricky Sales. All these teacherstaught me what it meant to be a man of integrity, to work hard, to have faith, to be honest, compassionate and humble.
Thinking about how different I’d be if not for my teachers makes me even more thankful for everything they’ve done for me. I wonder how different the epiphany of my face would be now to an Other had I not been under such committed and great teachers.
No one asked them to, but these men became teachers and committed themselves to the service of forming and teaching the youth, thus not only experience the epiphany of the face, but see the young faces of their students grow to hopefully become better persons in the future. As old as we become, however, it’s touching to hear them say that their memory of us will always be how we were as their young students. Teachers love their students like their own, I’d like to think.
And the least we could do is say thank you to our dear teachers. They are the unsung heroes in our lives. And maybe, just maybe, their example moves us to consider giving back. Who knows? Maybe some of us are inspired to pay it forward and consider teaching. I know I’d like to teach one day and experience the epiphany of the face on a deeper degree as I guide, teach and mentor my dear students.
Maybe if I do teach, even just part time, I will see the face of my student and hear a command and a plea, “teach me, teacher”. It’s a command since it is one’s profession, but it’s a plea because no teacher is required by a school to go beyond teaching the subject matter and making such a big impact on the lives of the students and be responsible for them. That is a choice or a vocation they choose to take.
We may not realize it, but the most our teachers would love to hear is a simple “thank you” or to show that we’ve truly grown under their care. It’s a little thanks for an Other who has given his or her all for us students.
A reflection inspired by the epiphany of the face by Emmanuel Levinas
We’ve learned much about the epiphany of the face by Emmanuel Levinas. Looking at face of the other is not merely a stare, but more of a gaze of awe and wonder, acknowledging that the person is an Other, a human being who has a life teeming with infinite possibilities just like you.
Sir Eddieboy Calasanz wrote that when we look at the other’s face, we don’t just see the eyes or that wonderful smile, but the loob or kalooban of the other. What’s more striking is that Calasanz later on says that when we are moved by the other after gazing at their face, the call to service is heard. Ikaw muna or kayo muna, Calasanz described it as. Thus is the call to responsibility to the other and we are called to sacrifice.
And thus we have the teacher. My high school Latin recalls the word “magister”, a word that to me sounds as powerful and glorious as the Latin word “dominus”, which is master or lord. We owe much to our teachers. No, let me rephrase that – we are indebted to our teachers. Isn’t it funny how perhaps the most influential and selfless profession is undervalued and seen as thankless?But take a moment and think on Levinas’s epiphany of the face and tie that to how a teacher painstakingly, lovingly and passionately gives of himself for the learning and growth of the naïve student. What we have here is a true example of selfless love and service to the other.
The teacher is the best example of an infinite human person who takes it upon himself or herself to reach out and mold the young human person into the best he or she could ever be. Theirs is a story of a beautiful sacrifice, an obligation they willingly put upon themselves. Nobody asked them to teach students for a living and give their comprehensive yes and commitment to such profession. But I guess the fulfillment and sense of wonder in teaching the other is one that is unparalleled. As romantic as it sounds, I believe a good teacher can make a definitive impact on the lives of their students and leave them with lessons and experiences that they will take with them beyond the walls of the classroom.
While not all teachers are the inspiring characters we’d prefer to have the privilege of being students of all the time, they are in a position where they experience the epiphany of the face on a deeper degree as they guide, teach and mentor their dear students. Let’s be honest, teachers don’t get paid much, but I believe the fulfillment and sense of accomplishment is priceless and that is what keeps them at it.
I fondly remember my beloved teachers from PAREF Southridge School, where I had the blessing to have such passionate, inspiring and committed teachers. I remember the greats and my beloved teachers: Manny Escasa, who taught me third year world history, Ed Valmorida, my fourth year class adviser and economics teacher, Buboy Sumulong, who taught me Philippine history and Latin, brilliant minds in English and literature Dino Peralta, Benjie Torralba and Eugene Salazar, my chemistry and physics professor Raymond Ganar, the wise Juanito Sese and Chito Flores, my ever patient math teachers PJ Gonzales, Francis Ong and Ariel Marcera, my biology teacher Botchok Del Rosario and my beloved grade school teachers George Carandang, Luis Barrientos, Dennis Holgado, Norman Charvet and Joseph Espejo. Of course there is my mentor, Rutch Regencia and my varsity basketball coach Ricky Sales. All these teacherstaught me what it meant to be a man of integrity, to work hard, to have faith, to be honest, compassionate and humble.
Thinking about how different I’d be if not for my teachers makes me even more thankful for everything they’ve done for me. I wonder how different the epiphany of my face would be now to an Other had I not been under such committed and great teachers.
No one asked them to, but these men became teachers and committed themselves to the service of forming and teaching the youth, thus not only experience the epiphany of the face, but see the young faces of their students grow to hopefully become better persons in the future. As old as we become, however, it’s touching to hear them say that their memory of us will always be how we were as their young students. Teachers love their students like their own, I’d like to think.
And the least we could do is say thank you to our dear teachers. They are the unsung heroes in our lives. And maybe, just maybe, their example moves us to consider giving back. Who knows? Maybe some of us are inspired to pay it forward and consider teaching. I know I’d like to teach one day and experience the epiphany of the face on a deeper degree as I guide, teach and mentor my dear students.
Maybe if I do teach, even just part time, I will see the face of my student and hear a command and a plea, “teach me, teacher”. It’s a command since it is one’s profession, but it’s a plea because no teacher is required by a school to go beyond teaching the subject matter and making such a big impact on the lives of the students and be responsible for them. That is a choice or a vocation they choose to take.
We may not realize it, but the most our teachers would love to hear is a simple “thank you” or to show that we’ve truly grown under their care. It’s a little thanks for an Other who has given his or her all for us students.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover
by Mark Cinco
31 January 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "The Face," Ethics and Infinity
Philo class has always been one of those subjects where I get the time to understand more about the things I ponder upon. I’m the type of person who always observes my surroundings and asks myself how that something that I saw came to be or what its characteristics are. I also look for a concrete answer rather than believing that a greater Being was the cause for it. The hardest thing that I can think about is the existence of the people that I see in my surroundings. Our lecture on The Face has helped me make more logical assumptions or theories as to what that Other is. I say ‘logical’ because during my early teenage life, I asked myself if it was plausible if I’m the only Being that has the capacity to think and that the people around me, including my family, are just being controlled by a greater being. It’s a bit funny to think that I arrived at an assumption as silly as that;but of course, even understanding The Other as Face is also in itself, difficult for a normal student such as myself.
I’m happy that we tackled this topic because it got to answer a lot of the things that I thought about in the past on the existence of others. Through observation, the first think that I notice, as how others do, is the physical characteristics. The study on The Face clearly tells us to gaze upon the other because its reality is both seen and unseen. To know more about the other, given the chance, try to be friends with that other so as to learn more about that person. Becoming friends or at least be acquainted with them is the first step to understanding the Being of that person. It is true that we cannot fully synthesize any person because we cannot fully learn everything about that person. So whenever I hear people say that they know a person so well that they can predict their next action or decision, I tell myself that they are wrong because that person they accuse of knowing is capable of things beyond their knowledge on that person.
Another important aspect of The Face is that the meaning comes from the other but not from me. An example I can give is parents who want their children to pursue a career like theirs. Though there are still parents who think like this, I believe that it is wrong for them to tell their children how they should live their life. Every person has an equal chance of giving their own meaning to their lives. Letting others do that will eventually make a person live a sad life. This is why we should not define a person based on who or what he/she is but experience who that person is. It is through this experience where we can truly understand more because the reality of the other puts us into question. It is also not a good practice to look at a person such as “the son of”, “friend of”, etc… because this will have an effect on how we look at this person.
With all the concepts learned from the discussion about The Face, I believe I can become more understanding on who a person is, how he/she came to be, or how that person acts. I think I’ll be more open to more logical theories and assumptions as I continue to think more about myself and the Other. Truly, you can’t judge a book by its cover.
31 January 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "The Face," Ethics and Infinity
Philo class has always been one of those subjects where I get the time to understand more about the things I ponder upon. I’m the type of person who always observes my surroundings and asks myself how that something that I saw came to be or what its characteristics are. I also look for a concrete answer rather than believing that a greater Being was the cause for it. The hardest thing that I can think about is the existence of the people that I see in my surroundings. Our lecture on The Face has helped me make more logical assumptions or theories as to what that Other is. I say ‘logical’ because during my early teenage life, I asked myself if it was plausible if I’m the only Being that has the capacity to think and that the people around me, including my family, are just being controlled by a greater being. It’s a bit funny to think that I arrived at an assumption as silly as that;but of course, even understanding The Other as Face is also in itself, difficult for a normal student such as myself.
I’m happy that we tackled this topic because it got to answer a lot of the things that I thought about in the past on the existence of others. Through observation, the first think that I notice, as how others do, is the physical characteristics. The study on The Face clearly tells us to gaze upon the other because its reality is both seen and unseen. To know more about the other, given the chance, try to be friends with that other so as to learn more about that person. Becoming friends or at least be acquainted with them is the first step to understanding the Being of that person. It is true that we cannot fully synthesize any person because we cannot fully learn everything about that person. So whenever I hear people say that they know a person so well that they can predict their next action or decision, I tell myself that they are wrong because that person they accuse of knowing is capable of things beyond their knowledge on that person.
Another important aspect of The Face is that the meaning comes from the other but not from me. An example I can give is parents who want their children to pursue a career like theirs. Though there are still parents who think like this, I believe that it is wrong for them to tell their children how they should live their life. Every person has an equal chance of giving their own meaning to their lives. Letting others do that will eventually make a person live a sad life. This is why we should not define a person based on who or what he/she is but experience who that person is. It is through this experience where we can truly understand more because the reality of the other puts us into question. It is also not a good practice to look at a person such as “the son of”, “friend of”, etc… because this will have an effect on how we look at this person.
With all the concepts learned from the discussion about The Face, I believe I can become more understanding on who a person is, how he/she came to be, or how that person acts. I think I’ll be more open to more logical theories and assumptions as I continue to think more about myself and the Other. Truly, you can’t judge a book by its cover.
Superheroes and Their Masks
by Paula Reyes
31 January 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "The Face," Ethics and Infinity
People hide their faces when they are usually covering something they do not want others to see, like a seemingly overgrown pimple unfortunately located at a visible spot or even conceal themselves when they do bad things like rob a store or vandalize public property. People only hide when they are ashamed or when they refuse to be vulnerable and open but what about the superheroes in the comic books and tv shows? Why do some superheroes (Batman, Spiderman, etc) chose to wear a mask and along with it conceal their identity when what they intend to do is for the greater good of man?
Their masks protect their identity and with it kept secret, their loved ones remain safe and free from the grasp of villains. They are given the freedom to still live their "normal" lives and blend in with people. Their being-superheroes comes with responsibilities and matters that if spilled over to their normal life, will provide consequences for everyone within the parameter of the hero. Villains usually capitalize on the heroes' weakness (usually loved ones if not a specific weakness to a certain element) if given the opportunity which is why superheroes always try to appear super. Strong and unbeatable is how they need to be perceived but sometimes, people do not always understand them.
People who look up to these heroes place them on pedestals and with this, distancing them from the rest of ordinary non-powered people. They see them as extraordinary but sometimes fail to remember that they are humans too.
Disclaimer: this contains spoilers on the comic issue
The comic The Spectacular Spider-man # 14, focuses on a guy named Joey Beal, who is a cripple with cerebral palsy. Basically, his only fully functioning sense is his sight. He was saved by Spider-man. In the end of the comic, after saving him, Spider-man does his usual lively chatter and tries to make sure Joey is okay. He could not stay longer because he had some much more responsibilities, being a hero but before he left, he took off his mask and tried to give Joey a smile.
In Joey's eyes, he sees a powerful super-hero in a vulnerable state. Spider-man's smile cannot hide the pain seen in his eyes. Joey caught this, and saw not someone who was extraordinary, but another human person, not so far from himself. After having this comic, I have realized that people a tendency to only view the surface of others– only seeing the masks. This attempt at understanding others is not as accurate as we think. We need to be more sensitive to what lies under the cover. It's natural to form impressions on people but to truly get to know them, we must dig deeper and even for a moment, experience the face. It is true that we will never truly and completely understand others but that does not mean we should not try.
The Musts
by Karl Rojas
31 January 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "The Face," Ethics and Infinity
While reading through earlier blog posts in order to write up my own reflection paper, I had an epiphany about myself: I am a sap for romance stories. I mean, I dive into my email, ready to write a full blown reflection paper, and the second blog post I see is a short video made by Wongfuproductions, and the next thing I know, I’m watching my all time favorite video about love called “Love Language”
This is a version made by an acquaintance of mine back in my hometown:
This is the original version:
If you haven’t already watched the video, the video is basically about two people, a girl and a boy. The girl is just sitting there on the bench, “listening” to her ipod, while the guy approaches her and asks for a simple pen. They meet up quite a few times after that, and the guy asks, “What song are you listening to?” to which the girl replies, “A special song”, and they engage in an exchange of sticky notes after that. At the end of the video, the girl asks if the guy would like to listen to her special song, and the guy complies. Then the guy writes “I’d like that” and the secret is spilled out. In their exchange of post-it notes, they had never communicated through voice and it turns out that the girl is deaf and mute. Regardless of this, the guy still writes “You’re still beautiful” to the girl.
I have learned two important things after watching this video:
1) Keep a pack of post-it notes on me, at all times.
2) Improve my handwriting.
Why are they so important? Because, as Dr. Garcia said in our class yesterday, “There are things that you must do” and I’m pretty sure that this classifies as something that I must do.
All things aside, there is a particular reason why I shared this video (aside from spreading the good vibes), and that reason is fear. When we encounter the other, we put ourselves in a temporary bout of shyness, or a situation where Il y a transfixes ourselves in order to make ourselves look presentable. But what we don’t usually notice is that the Other is also equally afraid and puts on a face, or a countenance in order to display themselves as favorable. But why do we want to display ourselves as favorable? Because each one of us has a vulnerability that we want to fix, and we choose not to show it to the Other so that we seem more favorable to them. The video I introduced to you guys is something along the lines of that. When the guy spoke to the girl, she never said anything, instead she just complied with his requests until they found a medium for communicating. This is an example of putting on a face in order to hide our vulnerabilities.
However, the face cannot be simplified as some sort of mask to hide behind, it is also something that represents our humanity. The simple mistake is that we look for meaning through the Other, but one cannot look for meaning through the Other if one does not understand his/herself first. I mean, we’re all responsible for the other right? How can we be responsible for the other if we’re not responsible for ourselves first? There are many others, but there is only one you. The you must be important enough to look down upon others, but at the same time it must contain enough humility to respect others, there has to be a balance in between, or else you’d probably be viewed as a negative person.
Anyways the A-fair is today, and we’ll be encountering a lot of new faces and others. We need to be responsible for the other, as you are responsible for yourself. Because, aside from us giving meaning to others and Others, Others give meaning to us. Have a fun long weekend guys! And remember: Post-it notes are awesome!
31 January 2013
Discussed Text: Levinas, "The Face," Ethics and Infinity
While reading through earlier blog posts in order to write up my own reflection paper, I had an epiphany about myself: I am a sap for romance stories. I mean, I dive into my email, ready to write a full blown reflection paper, and the second blog post I see is a short video made by Wongfuproductions, and the next thing I know, I’m watching my all time favorite video about love called “Love Language”
This is a version made by an acquaintance of mine back in my hometown:
Maybe
by Nats Barretto
"Thou shall not kill."
But sir, we've been told that a million times before in elementary and high school! We know that already! And besides, we haven't killed anyone to be reminded of that!
That was the first thing that came into my mind when I first heard that we'll be discussing this in philosophy class. I mean, it's a very obvious and you-don't-say thing! It's not something that should be explicated and complicated! Why are we discussing this thing!?
I'm not gonna try to give a seemingly flawless rationalization for this dilemma. I don't think I can do that. Rather, I'm gonna present a series of maybes on why I think we're discussing this in class.
Maybe #1
Maybe it's a reminder for us, because though we haven't really killed anyone yet, we still have the tendency to kill someone. As Levinas said, "the prohibition against killing does not render murder impossible".
Maybe #2
Maybe it's to present the 5th commandment in another way, a way wherein we'll be able to see it and understand it in a new light. Killing may not only mean physically causing the death of the Other, it may also mean not doing something to prevent the death of the Other. And that thought actually makes me guilty.
Maybe #3
Maybe it's because, though it's an obvious thing, it's something often overlooked and forgotten. And with the abundance of movies and books rendering killing as something "normal", it's really easy to overlook and forget that "thou shall not kill".
Or maybe, maybe it's a combination of the three maybes I presented above, or maybe it's an entirely different maybe. Maybe...
"Thou shall not kill."
But sir, we've been told that a million times before in elementary and high school! We know that already! And besides, we haven't killed anyone to be reminded of that!
That was the first thing that came into my mind when I first heard that we'll be discussing this in philosophy class. I mean, it's a very obvious and you-don't-say thing! It's not something that should be explicated and complicated! Why are we discussing this thing!?
I'm not gonna try to give a seemingly flawless rationalization for this dilemma. I don't think I can do that. Rather, I'm gonna present a series of maybes on why I think we're discussing this in class.
Maybe #1
Maybe it's a reminder for us, because though we haven't really killed anyone yet, we still have the tendency to kill someone. As Levinas said, "the prohibition against killing does not render murder impossible".
Maybe #2
Maybe it's to present the 5th commandment in another way, a way wherein we'll be able to see it and understand it in a new light. Killing may not only mean physically causing the death of the Other, it may also mean not doing something to prevent the death of the Other. And that thought actually makes me guilty.
Maybe #3
Maybe it's because, though it's an obvious thing, it's something often overlooked and forgotten. And with the abundance of movies and books rendering killing as something "normal", it's really easy to overlook and forget that "thou shall not kill".
Or maybe, maybe it's a combination of the three maybes I presented above, or maybe it's an entirely different maybe. Maybe...
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