Deserve Victory!!!!!

I have come to realize, once again, that in order for us to succeed we have to deserve it first. If we have done all the work and proven ourselves despite setbacks, we will prevail. We always hear:

“You can be anything and everything you want to be, all your dreams can come true,”

But do you deserve it? What you don’t hear, because it is not a pleasant thing, is the side effects as a result which is the pain and punishment that we have to endure. For every high there’s a low, but the torment is part of the process in order for your life to blossom. This is where many people quit because they fear the pain, not knowing the end result. It becomes unfamiliar territory, but it is important to win the small battles first to be prepared for the big ones. You may not deserve or earn anything at this point, but that doesn’t mean that that cannot change in the future by yours works today. Be tough physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I’m going back to this concept, the key to living happily ever after. We live in a world where we all want everything and I’m not just talking about possessions, but do we deserve it? Do we deserve that raise? Do we deserve that championship? Do we deserve that A on our report card? Do we deserve that significant other? Do we deserve that new electronic device? Not unless we earn these things. We must deserve victory! In order to get what we desire, we must dig down deep in order to turn things in our favor. Research, analyze the situation, built allies, have a plan, be balanced, be flexible, manage your time, get organized, be optimistic, stay motivated, have faith, do the work, and so forth, the rest takes care of itself. The opportunities are endless, but do you deserve them? If you’re going to do something you might as well do it with all your heart. Pour your heart and soul into it so that people can see your passion to the point where it becomes so contagious and it starts spreading across your circle of influence.

Who deserves it? YOU (You obviously understand). Why???? What have you done today to make tomorrow's dreams come true?

(continuation from MySpace Blog: Deserve Victory written in 2009)
http://www.myspace.com/enunez/blog/533374040

In order for you to become victorious you have to deserve it. One way to deserve victory is to suffer. Anything you seek can be achieved by suffering.

"They who endure conquer."
It always has been this way. I like to suffer a little bit just so I can be stronger in whatever I do. I fall and maybe even on purpose just so that I can train to pick myself up again. It may sound strange, but I love suffering. I love climbing the mountain top because the climbing part is always special. You meet the most interesting people, see the most beautiful places, and appreciate what you have. I don’t know about you, but I often take those things for granted. Nevertheless, I know that during a crisis situation, I’m always ready fully loaded because of the preparation that I have done. In times of war knowing how to endure helps you succeed. You’ve seen the terrible things, you’ve hit rock bottom, and you know that it cannot get any worse because even pain has its limits. What can this world do to you? You should not be scared of the world the world should be scared of you.

It’s back to square one my friends. It all started because I had a leak in my bathroom, so I had to shut off the water until I got my plumber to come fix it and to might as well remodel the entire bathroom while he was at it. This meant I could not shower at my house for a short time. After my regular weight lifting workout and my school I was to shower there since it was available.

During this unfortunate situation, I might as well learn from this ordeal and add some more to the list and suffer some more. At the end of the day, week, month, Lent season, I’m only going to benefit from these sacrifices and become stronger. What do I have to lose? I will lose comfort and convenience, however looking at the bright side, I have plenty to gain. Strength, honor, discipline, value, health, victory…
1. I can’t shower at my own house.
2. I can’t ride my car to work on certain days of the week.
(By riding a bike, I’m able to exercise and see beautiful sceneries)
3. I can’t use my cell phone on certain days, only incoming.
(I will take a break from the world, unless it needs me, then they can call)
4. I can’t watch TV, only Lakers games.
(Watching Lakers games allows me to spend time with my brothers)
5. I can’t fall in love. What? How dare you.
(I meet people everywhere I go, but love isn't the name of my current game, maybe?)
Coming Soon! (Future Blog)

Current Lent Promises:
1. I can’t log in on my Facebook account.
2. Attend mass and receive communion every day.

It sounds like a lot, but it really isn’t, I do most of the list already and will probably continue after lent season. Other than that for the next 2 weeks or at least until my bathroom gets fixed, whichever comes first then some of these sacrifices will be FINISHED. Your list doesn’t have to be this overwhelming. Don’t overdue yourself. I’m talking to myself here. Relax, but those little things can become good habits for long lasting benefits. That’s why I love the concept of fasting and the 40 days and 40 night’s practices because God rewards you for good works, whether its acts of kindness or sacrifices that are offered up for someone else or even for yourself. It's not selfish, if you earned it. Don’t forget about the ultimate sacrifice in the history of mankind, when Jesus died on the cross for our sins, we are still reaping those benefits. I’m going to conclude with a quote I learned in the 4th grade from a song that my twin brother and I sang/performed in my elementary auditorium.

“We reap what we sow, tomorrow is our own reward.”
http://www.rightchoicekids.com/sounds/Right%20Choice/Say%20No%20To%20Drugs.mp3

Spirtual Spring Break

This past weekend I attended my first ever ACTS (Adoration Community Theology and Service) retreat by St. Stephens Catholic Church which was held in Circle 6 Ranch in Stanton, TX. I’ve been to several retreats before which includes SEARCH and several CCW retreats. All of them have been empowering and have added something to the meaning of my faith. I am currently on Spring Break during Lent Season and I could not have asked for a better time to rejuvenate in a sense that will continue to help me grow in this journey. I’ve been praying for my family; my brothers and sisters; nieces and nephews; friends; students; and even co-workers. Lent Season is the time that the most temptation occurs. The evil one is out there seeking the destruction of souls, especially in a time where people are getting closer to God. I’ve been attending mass every day and receiving communion because it is the strongest weapon against the wickedness and traps of the devil.



The number one thing that I’ve learned is that I am not alone anymore. 30 men attended this past retreat and we all became part of a community that comes together as one and works as a support system to hold one another accountable. I have 30 new brothers that are men of God, people I can finally count on. Aside from my brothers and sisters, after my mother was called to Heaven, I never had anybody that was a reliable source to go to in this lonely world. I’ve fought on my own because, thank God, I feel very capable. Let’s be real. We’re going against evil forces, principalities in this unseen spiritual warfare. We need each other, we can’t do it alone. We are part of an army. If you consider yourself a Man or Woman of God, then you are part of this army. We are the Church Militant. God has called us. He didn’t call me when I was twelve, or nineteen, He’s been calling me and all of us all along, and to be more specific since our baptism. I think it’s time we answer His call. Thank you Great King! May Your will be done.

King of the Jungle

I’m a vampire. I don’t sleep at night sometimes. I’ve been suffering from a small case of insomnia. Maybe it started in the year 2000 when the Lakers won their first championship and every championship year after that, I didn’t go to sleep due to the excitement and watching the post-game interviews and highlights over and over. Nevertheless, this repetitive cycle became a habit. I know that I can stay up when I need to. However, the reason for me staying up is not to party and celebrate as if it was a summer night, the real reason it’s because there is lots of work to do. Graduate work, professional work, body work, yes I said body work. “Girl look at that body, I work out.” I have weight lifting sessions at midnight. I know that’s unusual and a bit insane, but what other time can this be done, I’m busy all day. That’s what it takes to be the best. You have to find time for everything. Rome was not built in a day.

I’m a wolf. I’m fierce, I consider myself in pretty good shape. My weight has not changed in years. I am lifting more than I ever thought possible. I’m breaking records fitness wise and that’s making my head bigger. It’s not good to have a huge ego, but honestly it’s not my fault. I’m a blessed man. I thank the Lord for the abundance of blessings even though sometimes I feel like I don’t deserve it. Furthermore, I’m not your ordinary wolf, nor am I trying to compete with Jacob from Twilight, I’m not the Big Bad Wolf, but actually I will be for a Children’s Literature play in Spanish at UTPB on April 25, 2012. “¡Abran la puerta, cochinitos bastardos!”

I’m actually a lion. That means I’m the king of the jungle. I seriously think that in my previous life I was a king. The red carpet was laid out everywhere I went, that’s why sometimes I expect the best treatment. Truth is, in this life chances are not given you have to earn them, you pay the consequences of you actions, and you have to suffer unjustly sometimes. I’m living in a cruel world full of hate, evil, and man eating carnivores. I’m the lion that stands tall and rules my jungle, even though people try to impede and invade my territory. Maybe it’s because I’m a small lion. I didn’t develop to be a big thick boned animal, don’t know why that is, but I’m still a lion you hear. I'm not going to be eaten alive. I will strike first if I have to, watch out, consider this a warning. I'm deadly. Maybe if I say it enough times I might actually believe it myself.

I’m may be a different animal, but always the same beast. It doesn’t matter what I am. I can be an animal or a made believed character, whatever the case may be. Main thing is that I’m some type of specie that can hold its own ground. I’m the last of my kind. There’s not another living creature in today’s world doing what I do, and that’s the point I’m trying to make. I don’t want to be like the rest of the world. I want to be something unheard of. Who am I kidding? I'm not a Beast. The world wants to label me, they want to assign me to a group, they want to give me a name. I don't want to be like every else, I don't want to be labeled. I wanna to be different. I just want to be myself!

Here are my upcoming goals in the exact order from now until July:
1. Got to ACTS Retreat for a 4 day weekend in Staton, TX.
2. Get international passport.
3. Get my CDL license to drive a school bus.
4. Start P90X2.
5. Attend mass every day during lent season.
6. Pass my linguistic comprehension exam.
7. Type 3 research papers.
8. Perform in the Three Little Pigs play as the big bad wolf.
9. Read 10 books.
10. Remodel every room in my house and yards.
11. Work at Midland College in May-June.
12. Watch the NBA Finals in Los Angeles?
13. Finish 12 hours of graduate level classes.
14. Finish P90X2.
15. Run the mile in 5:00 - 5:30.
16. Pay off car debt.
17. Save an extra $2,500 for Spain.
18. Travel to Spain for 20 days.
19. Watch USA Basketball in London?
20. Travel to Florida/California.

Why am I the way I am?

Chapter 1 - Identity

Why am I the way I am?
I don’t even know that answer.

Since age 12 I’ve made a decision to become something that didn’t existed, something different, something that was going to shock the world.

I wanted attention, respect, and power. I was determined to do whatever it took to get it. It helped that I had the best mother in the world. As strong as she was I wanted to show her that I was worthy of doing the things that she required of all of my brothers and me. She suffered so much during her life here on earth, battling cancer and raising 7 children. I watched her suffer for all of us and I didn’t want to cause her any more pain. I wanted to be a good boy. That’s what she wanted us to be, in reality that’s what every parent wants for their children. She wanted us to be a Sunday school, goodie good, nerd, and almost perfect child. She also wanted us to be tough and not back down from anything because she had that kind of mentality. She was a fierce woman, probably the fiercest woman I have ever met. Maybe that’s why I have high expectations when it comes to women, someone that is at the level that my mother was, but that’s a different story.

She would point out about others she viewed in the streets or on TV: what a great kid, you see (ya vez)? He’s doing his homework; he’s helping his parents; he’s doing laundry; he’s being polite; he’s down on his knees praying. All those little simple things that make such a big difference, etc. etc. etc. Sounds easy right? It’s not.

“The richest things, the best things, the most beautiful things in life are challenging.” –Richardson.

I asked myself, if I did all those things, would my mother love me more? Will I be her favorite of the 7? Will she stop crying? Will her pain go away? And will I obtain the attention, respect, and power? Everything pointed to yes. I figured if I lived a certain way, I was going to rule. I would literally be a Beast! Keep in mind this was a boy thinking ahead, rationalizing. Plus, I’m not going to lie, since I was an immature ignorant boy I was thinking of worldly things. I was thinking like Tony Montana from Scarface, because if I go to school, I will be making good money to buy all the fancy things that I wanted; If I had the money and good boy qualities more girls if not all girls were going to like me; If I got this far, with all this success, in Beast mode, I was going to have power, people will listen to me and I would have control and rule the world. I can’t go wrong.

“First you get the money, then you get the women, then you get the power.” -Scarface

I was determined to chase perfection. The first commitment that I made at an early age was that I was not going to drink, smoke, or do any type of drugs. No adult that I knew at the time was doing that, so I wanted to be the first to accomplish this impossible task at least in my family. I was going to be a great student, honor roll and all, you name it. I was going to do all my chores at home. I was going to have an abstinence card, when I get married it would be until death do us part. No more “thug life” meant no tattoos, piercings, or rebellion. I was going to be pure in an unpure world unmarked. I was going to say my prayers and go to church all the time, to be Jesus like, after all Jesus was the only perfect man to ever step foot on this earth, why not learn from the best. Perfection is tough and nobody will ever come close, but worth the try because those who died trying at the very least became Saints. Truth be told, all these Saints were probably some of the worst sinners on earth, but that’s how you learn, from mistakes and failure.

“Our greatest glory is not does not come from never falling, but from rising every time we fall.”

What if I could be strong physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually? What if I can have it all? The muscles, the diplomas, the courage, the faith… What if I can have approval from my peers, all the girls, my mom, and God? What if I can do it all? What if nothing was impossible? Who does these things? Might as well be me.

“It’s fun to do the impossible.” –Walt Disney

I want to meet these expectations. I want to promote this unique, lifestyle and the magic behind it. Nobody does these things or chooses this route because it’s the toughest. I want to prove to the entire world that it works and that it is worth every drop of blood, sweat, and tears. What if I told you that somebody out there in the world that you never thought existed does exist? What if I told you that even though I’m a sinner, I’m chasing perfection (Saint Status)? What if I told you this was the only way to survive in a zombie infested world? What if I told you that I wasn’t human? What if I told you I was a superhero chosen by God? What if I told you that yeah at age 28 I’m still doing work that nobody else dares to do? What if I told you that you can also?

Why am I the way I am?

Like I said before, I don’t even know that answer.
All I know is that since age 12 I’ve made a decision to become something that didn’t existed, something different, something that was going to shock the world, something that was going to make jaws drop, something big, something that nobody would have ever thought possible, and I knew from the bottom of my little heart that in the end I was going to WIN!

If you want to go to war stay tuned for chapter 2.
Chapter 2 – Suffering

So, What’s a Man to do?

What’s a Man to do?
That's what I named my blog and journal that I've been writing since 2003. It's a simple question that I believe every man asks themselves when they face different situations. I took it from the title of Frankie J's first album as a solo artist.

In this blog I try to highlight current experiences or chapters in my life as if I'm writing my own autobiography. If I was to publish such book the synopsis on the back cover would read:

A story about a young man, stuck in a world of evil, inconvenience, and loneliness. Through the struggles, he is able to remain positive, perservere and become stronger. Finding no obstacle to be impossible and the road wide open, he lives his life improving in every aspect to gain an edge in order to accomplish his goals. Inspired by his mother and driven by his faith, he embarks on a road never before travelled filled with a myriad of adventures.

"This action packed story includes comedy, drama, and romance; something for every familiy member to enjoy."
-Los Angeles Times

"Touching story of a true underdog."
-Midland Reporter Telegram

Suicides have plagued Midland

So Midland, TX has a huge problem among teens…

What is the solution to this problem? How do we combat against this storm? We are having celebrities like Tim Tebow, quarterback for the Denver Broncos as a guest speaker in our town, this will be good for our community. A local celebrity Baron Batch who is a Midland High School graduate and professional football player for the Pittsburg Steelers has published articles on this issue and plans to speak to our secondary schools. We have teachers, counselors, and principles tackling the subject in the classroom opening up the forum for kids to reach out to them. We cannot let this beat us, and yes we are all included in this. These are our children we are talking about and this cancer needs to stop before it spreads and affects us directly. God is greater than this and with His help we can defeat anything.

"We need a hero, courageous sacrificing people, setting examples for all of us. Everybody loves a hero, people line up for 'em, cheer for them, scream their names, and years later tell how they stood in the rain for hours just to get a glimpse of the one who told them to HOLD ON a second longer. I believe there’s a hero in all of us that keeps us honest, gives us strength, and makes us noble. And finally gets us to die with pride. Even though sometimes we have to be steady and give up the thing we want most, even our dreams." –Aunt May Parker (Spider-Man 2, 2004)

As it turns out I have checked myself into the game. I will fight for my people. I’m not going to stand here and let it affect my community. I may just be one voice, one teacher, one coach, but my ripple will collide and impact others in some way. God gave us life and put us in this world for a reason. I believe that it is to come together as one community, state, nation, and world to protect one another against evil especially the ones we love. We will fight to the death for our love ones.

Haters Gonna Hate!!!!!

What else is new? I have done research on this for years. People are always looking for opportunities to take shots at you. It’s been proven. It’s the nature of the beast. The good thing about it is that it drives me, and it keeps my motor running almost to the point where I’m begging for people to open their mouths.

I’m a football, basketball and track coach at a local junior high. I have competed and won multiple championships throughout my career. As a result I have drawn envy and hate from the people around me. They criticize and judge every chance they get it’s become part of the field. Little that these “haters” know is that I’ve been criticized and judged all my life for as long as I can remember. There I was three years old hearing these grown men talk trash to me. All my life I’ve been told that I was no good, that I’m not smart enough, strong enough, tall enough, etc. You name it. Of course I didn’t believe them because I knew that I was capable of winning, I knew I had a fighting chance. Plus, I was confident in my abilities. And growing up with two brothers made me a strong competitor.

I’m a diehard Los Angeles Lakers fan. I think it’s great that people cling on a team that they can call their own whether it be a home team or not. It’s a beautiful thing when families together. It allows to hold gatherings and create a bond for one cause. Everyone is on the same page sharing victories and defeat, but it’s those celebrations that make everything worth it because it adds great memories that will last a lifetime. It helps that my team has a history of being one of the most successful franchises and have the best player in the game today. My entire family cheers for the Lakers and enjoy attending live games, wearing, and promoting memorabilia publicly with pride. Hence, the hate and envy has tried to fire away in order to spoil our fun. Misery loves company. After all these years of studying why these type of haters hate, I have come to the conclusion that it is because they are fans of unsuccessful teams or no teams at all. They will try to intervene in a negative way with their ignorance, not having any prior knowledge as to why the team suffered a loss or any knowledge of the sport period, and will only use the final result as an opportunity to rub it in, even though in many cases they hadn’t even watch the game. Little did they know, that the champions were determined in a best out of seven games series and one loss did not predict the overall final outcome.

Friends of Foes?
I kid you not that my brother and I since 2007 will sit there with our phones it front of us waiting for people to call and talk trash after a loss.

Beep! Beep! My phone will ring.
“Who is it?” My brother would ask, and I would say “It is so and so a former colleague of mine that I haven’t heard from in 3 years talking smack.”

Beep! Beep! His phone would ring.
Who is it? I would ask. He would say, “It’s so and so a former classmate of mind talking mess again.”

Text after text, phone call after phone call and we realize it’s the same people over and over year after year that we have no choice but to add to our “haters” list. If that person is a true fan of the opposing team that beat us, then he or she does not make the list, but a true fan is a person that has been cheering for that team for years and actually watches the sport, but this is rarely the case.
Trash talking is not a bad thing. In a way, it’s what makes the competition fun. True fans, not of the game but of the sport know when to trash talk. I personally only trash talk when I’m being trash talked. At the end of the season I’m in Figueroa St. in downtown Los Angeles enjoying the parade, screaming my lungs out, seizing that special moment.

When the Lakers win my brother and I will sit there with our phones it front of us waiting for people to call and trash talk, but we don’t hear a dang thing as if our phones were on silent. Of course we double check and make sure they’re not. Moments later the texts and calls start coming in from nothing but friends and family congratulating and telling us how they plan to celebrate. It’s a beautiful thing :’( Tears of joy is what one of brothers said one year when I was in Downtown Disney in Anaheim after the Lakers won the championship in Orlando. You just don’t forget these things.

You win some you lose some and life goes on. Because this beautiful life goes on, sadly our enemies will continue to take shots at us, it comes with the territory. You can really test your so called friendships. We’ve lost several people who we thought were friends because of it. Really? Over a basketball game that they don’t know anything about? I guess that’s how you find out who your friends are. If I have respect for someone I’m not going to call or text or mention anything about any of their failures even if my team woop their team’s butt for one they may feel devastated why should we their friend who is supposed to make them feel better make them feel worse. Guard your comments, don’t say anything at all, after all it’s not going to be nice. If you must say something make complementary ones such as, “Your team played good, it was a great game that it could have gone either way.” Other than that hush because you never know what could happen, tables may turn.

“People are either with you or against you; one or the other no in between.”

Bottom line is that if anybody talks trash or questions anything you represent or anything that you are passionate about: your favorite team; school; university; employer; career; family; brand of clothes you wear; type of food you love; city you often visit; your statistics; skills; culture; etc. If they have the nerve to rub something in your face when any of the above mentioned falls short then you might have to question their friendship. That person deserves to be on the “haters list.”

You're Beautiful!

To all the people in Midland who are struggling or have struggled. Always remember the following:


Go Mustangs/Bulldogs!

DON'T BE SCARED

If I had to give advice to individuals, young or old, I would say: DON’T BE SCARED.

“Our biggest fear is not that we are inadequate, our biggest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” –Marianne Williamson

It is not that we are incapable of accomplishing things because we can. Even if we do not have the sources we can look for them. There’s always a way around everything. Nevertheless, we are terrified of being on a big stage. Do not be afraid to fall in love, of stardom, fame or perhaps wealth. Step up to the plate and win, accomplish your goals, and make your dreams come true. What happens after that? You prepare for the next big stage. Life is filled with stages for you to perform, make it your dance floor. Don’t be scared because you are a superstar, instead go out there and shine because we are all meant to shine in some way, but for some reason are frightened.

As I walk in the valley of the shadow and death, I shall fear no evil, for God is with me. Psalm 23:4.

Nobody can stop you because it is your destiny. People may try to impede by providing fear or by attacking. People may dislike what you think, feel, and do, but is it not up to them. You have been given permission to take control of your own life. You have to decide what is best for you. You have to built the right allies and form your own army in order to combat or prevent enemy strikes.

I will not be afraid, what can man do to me? Psalm 118:6.

Most of the time it is not the external factors, it is the internal. Fight that anxiety because if we let it control us, then we miss out on special moments that should be seized. God will show us the way. God will provide everything in our lives. We are filled with so many blessings because we have a merciful God. We never have to worry about anything. It has been planned out. It was not us that chose Him; it was He who chose us to join His army.

Why are you scared?
Don’t be scared
Do you need a soldier?
Let’s do this!

2010-2011 School Year

The 2010-11 school year is coming to an end. This was my 5-year anniversary as a teacher and coach for Midland ISD. Out of all five years this was definitely the fastest. Every year is special. I have done more this year than I have done any other year as a professional, including teaching mathematics part-time at the college level at Midland College, attending graduate school at UTPB pursuing a Masters of Arts in Spanish, and maybe that’s the reason why the year flew. Every year is filled with challenges, but leaves me with so many great memories.

"The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place... and I don´t care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently, if you let it. You, me or nobody, is gonna hit as hard as life (Balboa)."

I competed for a championship in football again and fell short losing to Abell in the final game, same goes for basketball finishing with a victory againts Nimitz to earn 3rd place. Track season went as expected with my returnee gold medalist finishing on top once more. I had a new bigger classroom in a portable building and taught Spanish level II and III once again. Those level II classes were amusing. The Spanish III classes took a while to get set this year, but when the 7th graders arrived, everything established.

1st period was the smallest class with mainly 7th graders, so it was the easiest to teach Spanish II. The few eight graders made it fun. The “Chelo” jokes will forever be remembered. I can’t wait to have this same group of kids in Spanish III next year.

2nd period was the biggest class with mainly 8th graders, and most of them were athletes coming from 1st period athletics into Spanish II. They were unique bunch because of their openness to express themselves freely. They were all inspiring. The “Dilbert” jokes were hilarious. I learned a lot from these kids.

3rd period was my Spanish III class with mainly 8th graders, most of them ESL students. They were great kids. A few Lakers haters, but they made it fun. Regardless, everybody was “Happy Happy” every single day doing work. Well, I can’t speak for everybody.

4th period was my conference period with 7th and 8th grade lunch attached to it. I don’t think I will ever have another hour and a half lunch again. That was definitely a privilege and I enjoyed it. My 7th grade athletes ate in my classroom every single day since the beginning of the school year. It served as a getaway island with a motivational purpose and sometimes game planning during football and basketball season, especially during game day.

5th period was my other Spanish III class with mainly 8th graders. When my 7th graders arrived it was a cat fight. All students were seeking attention. I had to share the wealth, and did my best to fulfill everyone’s needs. This class was a bright bunch and they were a lot more productive than the previous class, so it made it easier for me to teach them. One of these students actually gave me a dog as a gift, which has been a pleasant personal experience for me. Sadly, I will not have these 7th graders next year because they will complete their foreign language requirements, and for the record I am not a “Creeper.”

6th period was my last teaching class of the day with mainly 8th graders. Where do I start with this group? For one they inspired me to get a dog. They deserve the credit for that and I was thankful for the support and treats that they gave me. I knew that we lived in a small world, and the triple threat girls reminded me again because I knew their COUSIN, aunt, and even mom. We had so many laughs on a daily basis, especially that one student whose laugh was a gasp or a cry for help! The sweet and Sauer combination were entertaining. We shared our favorite Hispanic videos like it was show and tell. We laughed at the Special Agent Oso dance/swim move that we recognized. The mice incident was one for the records. I can go on and on about this class because they were amazing.

7th period was 7th grade Boys Athletics. They were Beasts! I enjoyed coaching all three sports and every single athlete. I bonded with many of them because of all the countless hours that we spent together during the period, after school, lunch, practice, during games, on the weekends, on some in my Spanish classroom. If I had the opportunity to coach them again in 8th grade next year, I would take it in a heartbeat. They have improved significantly and I know that they are going to be successful athletes in the future, especially if they stay out of ISS/AEP. Believe it or not, the grass is greener here at San Jacinto; we just have to keep watering it and add plenty of fertilizer so that it is more appealing for outside athletes looking in. I’m not trying to recruit, I’m just saying.

This year was an uphill battle, my five year tenure, the 3-peat year, despite the disappointments, is important to realize what Rocky said,

But ain't about how hard you hit... It's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward... how much you can take, and keep moving forward. That´s how winning is done. Now, if you know what you worth, go out and get what you worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hits. And not pointing fingers saying: You ain´t what you wanna be because of him or her or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain´t you! You´re better than that!" (Balboa).

Defeat only makes you stronger. This isn’t the last of it because in fact it’s more like a new beginning. The doors have opened and we are given the opportunity to seize this moment. I don’t want to count these next couple of days that we have left of school instead I want to make these days count. Greatness will become a product of these days that I speak of. I look forward for these moments because our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.

“Don’t let yesterday’s disappointments overshadow tomorrow’s dreams.” -O. Villarreal

All glory goes to God for carrying me through another school year. Good things happened to good people. I invite everyone to follow me in this journey, which includes a summer full of surprises. I am excited about my short vacation in Los Angeles, California, attending summer school at UTPB, teaching summer school at the college, all the home improvement projects that I have planned, and the possibility of yeah, good things to come.

God is good!

Teacher

I became a teacher to inspire! I couldn’t help to think how many lives I have impacted these past five years. It is quite humbly to think about, and that years from now those numbers are only going to increase exponentially. Many will come up to me and thank me or at least acknowledge me somehow like they have been, and unfortunately I will not hear from many others. Also, some will not even remember the seeds that have been planted for them since junior high for their development as an individual and that’s okay. I don’t do what I do for any credit because the satisfaction that I get personally for a job well done is enough for my confidence to continue to impact kids year after year. I also do it because it’s fun! I am so blessed to have a job that I am excited for and eager to attend every morning. Not only do I get instant fulfillment, but I know that although I may not receive a teacher of the year award or any other kind of hardware as recognition that my actual treasure is awaiting in heaven. We, teachers, are part of an equation to help kids, and we make a difference. Years from now kids may not remember what teachers taught them, whether it was how to conjugate verbs or how to work out a certain math problem, but they are going to remember how teachers made them feel.

The following is the best teacher made song that I could find on YouTube: Enjoy!

And Maybe She

I want God to guide me as I walk this lonely road. I want him to send me a companion, but am I ready for one? Even though I do not have her yet, I do not want to lose her. Is she the one that God has been reserving for me? If so, I am ready. If she is not the one, if she is of any harm to my santification, if I am of any harm to her santification, then I want her far away from me as possible. I do not want to make a fool of myself because I am taking a chance with love. People hear these stories all the time because they want to. It is like a movie that includes one of those happy endings. I am writing my own story with the permision of God of course. I am going to continue to build some courage and try to persevere if I want to break through walls. How can this be done? Can I make this happend? The answer is yes. I know it sounds silly, but it is not rocket science. It has to be mutual. I cannot be writing this if she does not feel the same. I cannot continue if she does not want me to. I have to have a sign, and no sign is not good enough. Either way she is my motivation. I will built this house from the ground up. I will walk thousands of miles. I will go through the most trecherous places if it is the only road to get to her. I know that if this is God sent, then it is good because all good things come from God. Therefore, if this is God sent, then Jesus will show me the way. Lord, I will follow you because in the end it is about being worthy of the promises of enternal life in the Heavenly Kingdom. I can take my companion if one is provided or I can walk with you alone. I will walk by faith.

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow you
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow you
I will follow you
(Chris Tomlin – I Will Follow)




HAPPY LENT SEASON EVERYBODY!!!!!

The Journey of 1,000 Miles!

You have heard:

“A journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.” –Lao Tzu

This journey that I just embarked of 1,000 miles should be down to 999. Maybe I mean 999.9. I have begun a new chapter in my life. One of which new obstacles will take place. I am starting a new school year, new seasons, attached with a new classroom; I’m entering graduate school; I’m beginning groundwork at home; financial peace is underway; I have entered the GAME, a game that may take several years, but I have taken the first steps.

No, you just have to wait

Just trust in a good time

No matter how long it takes.

-Phil Collins (You Can’t Hurry Love)

I have never been more thankful to God for all of His blessings and the ones to come. I have to continue to be patient while putting the hours of service. If this is God’s will, then let the games begin.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!!!!!

Lakers 2010 Back 2 Back!

The NBA 2010 Playoffs began as well as the road to repeat for the Los Angeles Lakers. I started the hype in this small town of Midland, Texas, where I reside. It has been a tradition, and only this time we were the defending champions, so I had to take it to another level. My students got to see and witness it firsthand. Girls wore purple and gold ribbons on their hair on game days. Guys wore purple and gold shoe laces, wristbands, and jerseys underneath their uniform like me on game days. My flags were up on my car and I wore the 2009 championship ring on game days. I had a countdown that I constructed and laminated posted in my classroom. Different students filled with excitement volunteered to place an “X” every time the Lakers win. The Lakers needed sixteen wins total and that’s where it started.

The hate began real early. This year I saw the most Cleveland Cavaliers fans than I’ve ever seen in my life. James was the MVP of the league, the Cavs were the best team in the NBA, for the second year in a row, but this year they were stacked with the addition of Jamison and Shaq, but just like last year Cleveland failed to make it to the NBA finals and got eliminated in the second round. In Texas people love the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and San Antonio Spurs. Houston, the team that gave the Lakers the most trouble last year taking them to seven games in the second round, did not make it to the playoffs. Dallas was the second best team in the Western Conference and many thought they were going to make a run, but San Antonio prove to them that they were once again the best team in Texas, but they were swept by the Phoenix Suns in the next round. This is where it got quiet many Texans went home fishing with their team. All of a sudden a teacher from Phoenix begins to trash talk and calls out a bet. I told him that I don’t bet for money, but the loser had to wear the opposing team’s jersey the next day to school. Many were hoping for the Suns to pull the upset including other colleagues. Nevertheless, this guy was a man of his word and wore my Lakers jersey to represent the Western Conference Champions and promote the NBA Finals match up against the Boston Celtics. I was excited, but the run had only begun.

Just when I thought that everyone had gone fishing with their team all of a sudden they became Boston Celtics fans and the trash talking was at an all time high. You were either a Lakers fan or a Celtic fan. Most were for L.A. of course, but a few haters were Boston fans. I told all these trash talkers, “Y’all said the same thing last year, aren’t y’all going to feel stupid when the Lakers win again.” This year, I could not make it to the first game of the finals like I did last year because school was still in session. That Thursday I watched Game 1 at my brother’s house with Phillip and Big Mike (undefeated in Lakers games). The Lakers won. The next day, Friday, was the Last day of school and it was interesting to see the reaction of the people the next day.

On Sunday I was in El Paso at my sister’s house watching the Game 2 with my sister Curru, nephew Tury, and nieces Aimee and Mercy. Lakers lost that night and with the series tied at 1-1. It was now a five game series and the Lakers had to regain the home court advantage the next game in Boston. I watched Game 3 in Los Angeles across the street of Staples Center at the Yard House with my niece Brittany and her boyfriend Dominic. The Lakers won! I was interviewed by a local Spanish news station.

I came out of TV after the Lakers game. Canal 62 (channel 62) They interviewed me in Spanish for the local news in Los Angeles.
They asked: "Are you happy with the win?"
I responded: "Happy? yes, but that's not the goal the goal is to win 2 more."
Lakers 2010 Finals Game 3

3R!K NÚÑ3Z MySpace Video

For Game 4 I returned to downtown L.A. and watched the game at the ESPN Zone with Brittany and Susan. The Lakers lost. The series was tied once again at 2-2. The next game was the last game in Boston before they returned home. I seriously predicted that the Lakers were going to win this game and win the championship in the sixth game so I bought a ticket for the sixth game hoping to be there for the presentation of the trophy. I watched Game 5 at the Yard House across from Staples with Brittany and Dominic again. The Lakers lost and were facing elimination. I knew the Lakers were going to have to beat Boston convincingly in the next game. I predicted a blowout. I spent my life savings and I watched Game 6 LIVE in Los Angeles at Staples Center and witnessed the blowout firsthand. The Lakers were one game away from completing their goal.

I returned to Staples Center and had to watch the Game 7 across the street with my friend Aurora and her boyfriend Albert at Trader Vics because every bar and restaurant was full. It was one of the most exciting games ever. It was a tough game and the Lakers came back from a double digit deficit to win! We all went crazy in downtown Los Angeles. I will never forget that feeling I had when the final buzzer went off. The championship riots began and I was there finally for the first time. I didn’t vandalize the city, but was watching everyone else in delight. It was the best night of the summer. Back 2 Back!!!!!(5)* That night I could not sleep, just like the 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2009 Championships.

*the exclamation marks: For years, since 2002 – 2009, I would type 3 (!!!) exclamation marks because I supported and experience the first 3-Peat 2000, 2001, and 2002 championships. The Lakers could not win another championship until last year 2009. For an entire year I would type 4 (!!!!) exclamation marks every time I had the chance. I can now type 5 (!!!!!). One for the thumb ;)

Kobe wins his 5th championship ring, one more than Shaq, but one less the Jordan. This clinches his G.L.O.A.T. (Greatest Laker of all Time) status by beating their all time rivalry, and will chase Jordan for the G.O.A.T (Greatest of all Time) as he pushes for a 3-Peat next year giving him his 6th title, and more championships in years to come. Phil Jackson wins his 11th championship as a coach and could not pass up the opportunity to return and coach for another chance for another 3-Peat like he has done his entire career before he retires as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

1 gold medal, 5 championship rings, 2 Finals MVPs, 1 Regular Season MVP, and 3 All-Star MVPs.

Never doubt this man. Kobe has never let me down because just when you think you've seen it all, he does something incredible like win yet another championship with or without Shaq, knock down a tough game winning shot over multiple defenders, and so forth. I admire anyone who has overcome adversity and beat all odds especially when it seems like the entire world is against you. (I will write a blog about Kobe especifically and later date, but lets get back to this 5 championship, 16 total for the Los Angeles Lakers franchise).

The championship parade was a little different this year, but it was still an awesome experience. I decided to take my niece Stephanie and nephew Robert, plus Steve and his friend Koko, who also joined us real early that morning. All those hours waiting to see the Lakers for only a few seconds were worth it.

Kobe Bryant was going to make an appearance at the Lopez Tonight Show and I wanted to be there even though I did not have tickets. I showed up with my friend Steve after the crowd had died down and ask for tickets and the plan worked. Even though I was squeezed in with the last bunch and had to stand by the band, it was worth being there because I was able to see Pau Gasol which was aired in Wednesday and Kobe Bryant that was aired on Thursday. We got a free yellow shirt that Kobe had given us, and we had to wear it before Kobe was announced, it was great. He brought George Lopez a gift, which was a shirt that read cinco, symbolizing his five championship rings. Kobe was at his show in the first episode and promised to come back with the championship trophy and coincidently he shows up in the 100th episode with the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

This championship was special:
We beat Boston.
More people were inducted into the Lakers fan base.
My family was more involved this year.
Kobe wins one more than Shaq.
It silences critics in the Lebron bandwagon; debate over!
The trash talkers witnessed greatness.
I saw one of the biggest games of the year live.
I witnessed a riot in downtown Los Angeles.
I went to the parade for the second year in a row.
The bandwagon fans get to pick another team (Miami) next year for the 3-peat quest.

2010 Finals Game 7

3R!K NÚÑ3Z MySpace Video

Off Season Moves (Quest for 3-Peat):
Re-signed head coach Phil Jackson for one more year.
Drafted two rookies, Derrick Character and Devin Eubanks.
Signed point guard Steve Blake.
Jordan Farmar walks and signs with New Jersey Nets.
Derek Fisher decides to re-sign with L.A. after meeting with other offers including Miami.

Josh Powell walks and signs with the Atlanta Hawks
Signed Matt Barnes and Theo Ratliff.
Re-signed Shannon Brown.
Signed the new Rookies.

Spring Break in Midland

Spring Break is here! I am definitely looking forward to it. Unfortunately, this time I am not going out of town to watch the Lakers beat teams, like they have been, or am I going to buy a new car again, but I do plan on making it a memorable experience. I plan on doing some spring-cleaning; conditioning my mind and body for an upcoming contest (lol); assist my brother with FedEx deliveries; and a lot of resting. In the past, if I didn’t go out of town, I would use this time to get school work done, sleep-in, and watch television on the couch, and of course put in extra hours at my current part-time job. That would have been my idea of a perfect Spring Break week. Preferences have changed and we are in for a treat this year. I say we for those of you who want to be included in this adventure. Every year we should consider this time to be a special kind of break where people can recharge. For forty days and forty nights Jesus fasted in the desert and devoted this time to grow spiritually and spent a lot of time in prayer, as a result he was often interrupted by an outside source. When it comes to being on vacation, there is no excuse in putting God first because there is no mandatory work involved. By that being said, challenges will present themselves, and especially on a time of Lent, such as procrastination, unexpected problems, and even sin. God has a purpose for Spring-Breakers like me. I got my daily routine set up for the week and several commitments that I made. I was eagerly waiting for this occasion, and I think I speak for most teachers and students when I say that.

Quote of the week:
El huevón tiene doble trabajo.

Picture of the week: