Peping's Personal Blog

The Price of Nostalgia: A Reflection on Inflation and the Changing Times   Twenty years ago, the aroma of freshly grilled burgers and the comforting clatter of a cash register were the soundtrack to my evenings. As a part-time cashier at Wendy's in Glorietta 4 Cinema, Philippines, my world revolved around the familiar scent of fries and the satisfying crunch of a perfectly-made chicken sandwich. While my college classes occupied my days, Wendy's provided a haven for my evenings, a place where I could earn a little extra and indulge in a simple, affordable meal.   My go-to was the macaroni side salad. At just 23 pesos, less the employee discount, it was a filling and satisfying meal that sustained me through my five-hour shifts. The creamy blend of macaroni, vegetables, and thousand island dressing was a comforting symphony of flavors that I savored with every bite. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life, a time when a modest sum could provide...

 🌸🔴 Reflecting on the Beauty and Meaning of Fushimi-Inari Taisha 🔴🌸   Years ago, during my second year of college, I watched the poignant movie "Memoirs of a Geisha." Amongst its many memorable scenes, one touched my soul deeply—when Chiyo visited a temple to offer a prayer. The location was none other than the remarkable Fushimi-Inari Taisha.   Appearing around the 40-minute mark and again at 136 minutes in a powerful flashback scene, this temple holds a special place in my heart. With John Williams' soul-stirring musical score accompanying the visuals, it becomes one of the film's most visually stunning moments, filled with beauty and hope.   What truly moved me was not only the scene itself but also the action taken by Chiyo. She dedicated all her money to offer a prayer in the hopes of meeting The Chairman again. It reminded me of a similar time in my life when, as a child, I offered my one peso coin, a precious treasure from my school allowance, ...