Letters to Electra - How to be a Woman (Part 2)

14/12/15

This is part 2 of 'How to be a Woman'. To read part 1, simply scroll down a post or click on this link.

Dear Electra,

As you've read from part 1 of this topic, there are no rules for being a woman, but yet everyone around me recommends that there are special traits you need to successfully be a female. In this post, let's analyse each ridiculous rule from part 1 and reverse it.

  1. "Always listen to what people have to say about you and act upon it. If they say you're too ugly, add a little bit of makeup on your face."

There's so much negativity in this world that you can't help but succumb to what people have to say. Society demands unrealistic expectations from everybody, but when you look at it realistically they're aiming to change girls the most. If you're receiving hate, don't change anything and keep on doing what you love. If it becomes overwhelming, feel free to reveal your sassy side. That will shut them up.

  2. "You must keep your room neat. You're a woman, not a boy."

This rule not only focuses on keeping your room neat because of your gender, but maintaining stereotypes in everything you do. Everybody knows about gender stereotypes, like how 'girls have to be prim and proper'. All genders should be free to oppose these ridiculous stereotypes. 

  3. "You must wear dresses that reach the ankle. No pants, no leggings and certainly no booty shorts."
I can't count how many articles I've read about how girls should dress. Schools and workplaces all over the world have the craziest dress codes that target girls. I read one article where a girl who wore a skirt that covered her knees but still was asked to change to a 'more suitable outfit'. I believe that everyone should wear whatever they want to, as long as they're comfortable. 

  4. "You must shave off every single follicle of hair that is found on you -- most importantly, the hair on your head."
Why do men get away with wearing beards and having unshaved arms, but yet when women have a little bit of peach fuzz it's the main issue on the table? Women, especially teenage girls, shouldn't be reprimanded about this at all. It persuades us to become insecure.

  5. "You must not get an education but learn to become a housewife. Without the woman, a house is not a home."
Another rule about gender stereotypes. I watched a video from Buzzfeed where they ask strangers to associate a mix of people with different occupations. The strangers linked the women with female-dominated careers (e.g. nursing), and the men with male-dominated careers (e.g.fields in science). In reality, the women were in science careers and the men worked for childcare. This video proved that women can handle what men can do, and vice versa. 

  6. "You must not play sports. It is forbidden for women to sweat a droplet as this affects their ladylike-ness. Women are also banned from showing some kind of strength."
This is the rule where I cringe the most. In some parts of the world, women are forced to stay out of fields where men are dominating, such as sports. Women are forced to maintain the house rather than participating in sports. Sports help people to gain skills in sportsmanship, teamwork, body and logic skills. I think it's important for everyone to experience that.

  7. "You must not leave the house without a man. What will happen if you get lost in the middle of nowhere?" 
This is the only rule in this list where I believe applies to the real world. I've watched videos where women are sexually harrassed on the streets and basically everywhere they go. Sometimes to stop that harrassment you'd have to be accompanied by a man. Reality sucks, right?

  8. "You must not have any weapons on you. This includes pepper spray, tasers and anything hard like a book. "
However, if a man can't accompany you everywhere you go, feel free to defend yourself with anything. 


To all the women/girls out there, be strong and defy stereotypes. Show the world how strong you can be.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,
- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - How to be a Woman (Part 1)

13/12/15

Dear Electra,

Throughout the years I've lived as a female, I've looked up to other women and have followed their teachings. Here's what I found out:

How to be a Woman

Rules according to older women (and some men)

Please read until the very end.

1. Always listen to what people have to say about you and act upon it. If they say you're too ugly, add a little bit of makeup on your face. 
2. You must keep your room neat. You're a woman, not a boy.
3. You must wear dresses that reach the ankle. No pants, no leggings and certainly no booty shorts.
4. You must shave off every single follicle of hair that is found on you -- most importantly, the hair on your head.
5. You must not get an education but learn to become a housewife. Without the woman, a house is not a home.
6. You must not play sports. It is forbidden for women to sweat a droplet as this affects their ladylike-ness. Women are also banned from showing some kind of strength.
7. You must not leave the house without a man. What will happen if you get lost in the middle of nowhere? 
8. You must not have any weapons on you. This includes pepper spray, tasers and anything hard like a book. 
9. And most importantly,

BREAK ALL THE RULES.

All throughout my life, I've been reprimanded for doing "unladylike" things such as speaking out about something or keeping my room a little bit messy. These things shouldn't be looked upon as "disgusting" or anything bad. If I want to speak out about things or leave my room the way it is, let me. 

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,
- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - A Battle of Changes

5/12/15

Dear Electra,

SCHOOL FINISHED YESTERDAY! I'm confused about how I feel about this. This school year I've made so many connections to people my past self wouldn't even talk to. I've put myself in risks that have challenged my anxiety. I've changed.

Change is frightening. At one stage you're getting on with life as usual, and then BAM! You're placed in a new situation. But what if we never experience change? That would be tedious and weary. Imagine if we repeated everything. One season, one year in school, one routine. Even though I'm a conservative person, thinking about the latter makes me cringe.

In the end, change is good. Change stimulates us to adapt to new situations. Without change, we would never discover our strengths, weaknesses and personalities.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,
- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - Elaine and Rochelle

27/11/15

Dear Electra,

I can't believe there are such things as coincidences. It just happens that Elaine, my friend, and Rochelle, my sister, share a birthday, which also happens exactly one month before Christmas. Since it is a tradition on Electra and Marian to describe a personal story I share with the people celebrating their birthdays, I'm going to write about both Elaine and Rochelle respectively.

Fun fact: I've known Gwen, Charisma and Anjeline since primary school and Sera since year seven, but Elaine is relatively new to my friendship circle. We did know about each other's presence in year seven, but we never talked to each other. Our first conversation happened on our way back from a school trip in year eight. Since Gwen, being the only friend I had at that time, didn't attend the school trip, I was a little bit wary of the people on the bus. When the bus was about to move I had no choice but to sit next to a random girl.
"Hello. So, what would you like to be when you grow older?" I asked awkwardly as she turned her head away from the window. We had just visited a careers expo.
"I don't know, maybe something artsy? Maybe fashion designing," Elaine replied.
"I'd love to become a psychologist."
"Really? My mum's a psychologist. She helps women, specifically those who have gone through pregnancies."
Elaine, if you're reading this, I'd like you to know that I appreciate you as a friend. I love the logical conversations we have and the eternal list of puns you say every time we meet. I'm glad I have a friend who also understands the power of literature. Happy belated birthday.

Being the only sister I have, Rochelle is like the teddy bear I've had since kindergarten - full of memories but huggable all the same. It's hard to pick a memory from someone who I see every day. I guess the best memories I have of her are when we talk to each other and bond over her eight-year-old thoughts. Like every time we hop on the trampoline, whenever she blows bubbles or helping her to read books. Reading books with her seems the most significant, since reading is something we have in common - maybe the only quality we share is our infatuation for reading!
Rochelle, if you're also reading this, please do me a favor: grow up to be ready for the world. You're still eight years old, which gives you the chance to develop and cram as many things into your head before you turn into an angsty teenager like me. You're the best sister I will ever have in my life, no matter how we turn out in the future. Mum, Dad, and I all love you.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,
- M ★ 

Letters to Electra ~ Pretentious

21/11/15

Dear Electra,

Hell Week finished a week ago, but somehow I didn't find enough time to write you a letter. I guess I was experiencing post-exam stress as I was desperate to find my results. Have you ever gotten that feeling, Electra? The feeling that you still need to study even though Hell Week was over? I can't stop allowing that trauma to take over me. All I'm glad about now is that Hell Week has perished for 2015. Thank goodness.

Of course, you know I'm not fully satisfied with the peacefulness of the post-exam period. Earlier this week my English teacher asked if anyone would like to participate in a speech competition. The acceptance was optional, but yet I chose to take the risk of revealing my hidden voice to a large audience. My decision frightens half of me, but the independent woman in me wants to expose what's been on my mind since... forever. Most of the participants have done/are completing training in speech and drama and/or have an astounding amount of confidence compared to my silent nature. I can't tell you what my topic will be, but I know it would be enough to astonish at least one person in the room (I've actually told my English teacher and she seemed pretty fascinated).

Wish me good fortune, Electra; I need all of it.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,
- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - For Every Road Trip Action There is a Nauseous Reaction

24/10/15

Dear Electra,

Last Wednesday my family and I travelled to Auckland, which lies hours away from the city I live in. As we were riding in the car, I couldn't focus on where I was or what was happening. I've had spells of dizziness like this before (mentioned in past letters) but it got to the point where I passed out constantly, even if I had medicinal oils rubbed on my forehead or if the car wasn't moving. Nobody in my family pointed out that I had a pale face, although I felt like I did.

I'm currently spending my Saturday at a Filipino basketball festival, sitting in the bleachers and ignoring the constant buzz of cheering audiences. On the way here, despite it being a short distance from the city I live in, I fell into a moderate state of nausea. As I write this, Electra, my handwriting is deteriorating and all I could write are squiggly lines. Let's carry on anyway.

Somehow these two events are connected, or maybe I'm just allergic to road trips. Isn't it a depressing allergy? It means that I can't fulfill my wanderlust without dropping my blood pressure and failing to take in a beautiful view. Hopefully my body can get back into its original state soon.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual.
- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - Let's Talk About Sexism

14/10/15

Dear Electra,

I'm back after a hiatus with Primavera! I've also completed week 1 of my fourth school term this year, which means that exams and assessments are crawling closer behind me. This also means that I have to hibernate from writing letters to you again soon.

As I remain on the same topic about school, there's been more sexism now than I've experienced earlier this year. It's 2015, people! I thought we could wrap our thoughts around this predicament by now.

Some adults may say that boys 'tease' girls to flirt and to get their attention, but it's actually worse. Who flirts by mistreating others? Why can't boys treat girls like human beings and not like wild animals? Do boys struggle to see the light in the opposite gender?

This brings me to another sub-topic: when girls achieve their best or have big goals, why do boys have the reflex of focusing on our bodies? I heard an example of this very recently when some friends of mine won a competition:
"Woah, she looks so hot."
"Yeah. I'd put her in my bed in a millisecond."
Well, that's not what they said word for word, but it's enough for you to comprehend my message.
When can boys accept the fact that girls can do whatever they can do?

My reason for writing this is not to shame some males for their libertine actions, but to remind them that females and other types of genders are as important as they are. When you see an example of sexism online, in real life or anywhere else, please try to combat it. This also applies to racism, any type of bullying and any other type of discrimination in this world.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Primavera ~ The Thirtieth (And Final!) One

30/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Goodbye.

Well, you're going to be here for a few more months, but I am saying farewell as I stop writing letters to you.

You have been a source of relief and warmth for me during this stressful month. You've celebrated four birthdays, explored the deeper qualities of my personality and had to put up with my boredom all in thirty days. You've accompanied me when I wanted to talk to someone about my panic attacks and personal thoughts when everybody was occupied, or when I was too afraid to talk to another human being. 

I am much obliged to you for following me on my journey throughout (almost) every day of September 2015.

Thanks.

Until next September (hopefully!),

Marian.

P.S.: Stay powerful and beautiful as usual.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Nineth One

29/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Last night the group and I had our second sleepover in the month of September. Well, for Sera it was her first since she couldn't attend the previous one.

This sleepover was to celebrate the fourteenth birthday of Serafina, who was actually born on the twenty-sixth this month. Everyone, as expected, arrived perfectly on time... and then there were Anjeline and me, who arrived one hour later. Although this ticked me off a little, I wouldn't change what happened afterwards.

During the afternoon, everyone separated into smaller gatherings in the living room. At one corner sat Anjeline with the birthday girl as they typed busily on their phones. Our friend, Melody, slumped on one of the couches and tapped away on her phone. On the arm of the opposite couch perched Elaine, who filled out a word document on her laptop. And then the leftovers, Charisma, Gwen and me, engrossed ourselves with the Backstreet Boys. Yes, Primavera. I don't like modern trends, but the '90s and previous generations fascinate me.

When all of us grew apathetic of doing nothing, we all raided the playground across the road. A special feature of the playground was a large swing that could fit about five people at once, and I couldn't help but lie down on it and get my friends to become my humble servants and push me. Eventually, I allowed my friends to hop on and giggled until we ran out of breath. Running around the street and acting like five-year-olds was definitely a better alternative to depriving ourselves of social interaction.

After a scrumptious dinner cooked by Sera's mum, we gathered in the lounge and watched 'The Notebook', avoiding the indecent scenes of course - a lovely ending to a memorable day in our friendship.

Yours sincerely,
One who has lovely friends.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Eighth One

28/09/15

Dear Primavera,

You know how people identify as either introvert or extrovert? Unlike them, I fit perfectly in the middle.

At first, I thought I was an introvert since I am extremely shy and unable to talk to people without bluffing. I'd rather go on Tumblr in the comfort of my dark room than attend lavish balls. I relish silence more than listening to people's delightful conversations.

But then, there's another side to my persona. I live my life with the fear of being forgotten by my loved ones. When I'm not surrounded by a person or a group of people, I can't have someone to listen to my incessant rants and give me helpful advice. When I'm alone I feel vulnerable at times.

If I'm alone, then I become angry. If I'm surrounded by people, then I become angry as well. I understand myself.

Yours sincerely,
An intro-extro-vert.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Seventh One

27/09/15

Dear Primavera,

It has only been two days since the end of Term 3 and I am abhorrently bored. Fatigued out of my mind.

When I am not encouraged to stress about something that tiny spark of ambition disappears from my mind.

I can't seem to grab the tiniest pinch of my creativity from my mind. I'm not even sure if I could write anything more apart from the fact that I'm unoccupied and lonesome.


Yours sincerely,
All the thoughts Marian can generate for now.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Sixth One

26/09/15

Dear Primavera,

The year seven version of myself had social anxiety (I still have social anxiety. Nothing has changed), which made it difficult to ask for help or sit with anyone at lunchtime. I tried to cling onto my primary school friends, but eventually they had branched out and met new friends. I was solitary.

However, someone changed that.

During P.E., my class and I played t-ball (technically, I just stood there (when I say nothing has changed, absolutely nothing has changed)) and as the game went on, I saw these two girls standing and gossiping across from me and they returned my glare. One of them was a primary school friend, and the other one seemed to be a Filipina. They both approached and invited me to gossip along with them since I was as still as a stick.
"So," I said to the Filipina-looking girl, "are you from the Philippines?"
"Well, my mum is a Filipina. I was born here," she replied.
"I also heard that you were from Eye-ran."
"It's pronounced 'Eee-ran', and yes, my dad is Iranian," she corrected.
The tedious game of t-ball lingered on as the three of us giggled in the sunshine and completely ignored the whole class.

This Filipina-Iranian girl has taught me to be more confident and care less about negative thoughts. Despite the burdens we have come across in our friendship, she remains one of the most faithful people I've ever met.

Happy birthday to the beautiful Serafina.

Yours sincerely,
A grateful friend.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Third One

23/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Anjeline arrived at 5:00 p.m. We began to rehearse the scene that entwines the whole plot. Every time we tried to rehearse the scene, either one of us began to chuckle. However, after about fifteen rehearsals we successfully filmed it! Yay! A true teenage effort!

----------JUMP CUT TO THE 24TH OF SEPT.----------

I couldn't write anything last night because I was furiously editing our short film. It took about two hours to edit the whole movie because I had to use two different facetious programmes. The first one said that I had used up all my memory, and the second one crashes whenever I use it. It also took me one hour to convert the whole film into a suitable video file. Since this all began at 8:00 p.m., I had to surpass my bedtime and had to bear the next day sleep deprived. Yay! A true teenage effort!

Yours sincerely,
I don't know why I've written this post. I need sleep.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Fifth One

25/09/15

Dear Primavera,

As soon as that 2:45 p.m. bell rings, the students at my school will taste the refreshing flavour of freedom and relaxation.

Well, except for me.

I'm a study freak. I can't help it! I can't pass a day without at least an hour of studying something. It could be anything, as long as it's an academic subject.  When I try to avoid studying, a wild spirit appears in front of me and haunts me for hours, begging for some sort of nourishment. As that spirit rages on and on, I transform into an emotional wreck.

Goodbye to term three, and good luck to me finding something to study during this tedious time.

Yours sincerely,
A student about to enter a state of ennui.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-Fourth One

24/09/15

Dear Primavera,

I forgot to write about the premiere of our film assignment in the last letter. I was so exhausted that as soon as I wrote the 'yours sincerely' part, I hibernated my laptop and passed out.

Before I write to you about the premiere, two days ago my English teacher approached me as I was doing my work. She noticed that Ophelia and Anjeline weren't present and so I was left deserted.
"It doesn't seem realistic that you could finish your short film by tomorrow," she said.
Well, it turned out that our group managed to finish the entire movie in hours.
Yesterday, when our film project was due, I delightfully announced that my group and I had finished our short film. Our English teacher dropped her jaw in awe.

As our other classmates' short film played, I grew more and more anxious by the seconds. I knew our group worked hard, but I began to think our movie had no potential against the other movies. I just wanted to crumple the entire video and burn it in a furnace.

At the end of our short film, most of my classmates seemed impressed. We don't know our grade yet, but hopefully we passed the standard.

Yours sincerely,
A young filmmaker who is glad this assignment is over.

Letters to Primavera~ The Twenty-Second One

22/09/15

Dear Primavera,

I've had enough of this short film assignment. Both Anjeline and Ophelia aren't showing up to any filming sessions or school today, and Ophelia brought the camera home with her.

Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh! It's so bad! Why is this happening! It's not supposed to happen! We should have an extension during the holidays. We're not showing these films to our parents until next term, so why can't we do that instead?

------------------- JUMP CUT TO THE LATER AFTERNOON -------------------

There is hope for our short film! Anjeline is coming to film after school today despite her mild illness. However, Ophelia is nowhere to be found. I bet she's not even sick. I'll update you later on how our filming goes.

Yours sincerely,
A relieved filmmaker.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twenty-First One

21/09/15

Dear Primavera,

When/if you saw my face today, you could try to count the spots on my and never reach the end.

Basically, what I'm trying to say is that I'm stressed.

I arrived at school this morning, using the tiny bit of sanity left inside of me. When I encountered Ophelia at the school gate, I lost that sanity and transformed into a monster. I just couldn't help it. She missed out on filming because she had to go to town.

Another thing is that Anjeline didn't show up to school today. All of my hope for this assignment was about to flow down the drain until Ophelia arranged to film this afternoon. We filmed a little bit of the ending and completed the storyboard. It may be some work completed, but it still wasn't enough. I am still stressed out nonetheless.

Yours sincerely,
An extremely anxious student.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twentieth One

20/09/15

Dear Primavera,

When I woke up this morning, my mum asked for today's date.
"It's the nineteenth," I answered.
"No. It's the twentieth. Yesterday was the nineteenth," responded Dad.
Primavera, how in the world is it the twentieth day of September today? Time passes as quickly as light travels. It astonishes me.

This afternoon Anjeline, Ophelia and I were supposed to shoot our short film for English. I had to clean up the entire house along with the help of Dad. As the clock ticked one p.m., the time when we begin filming, none of them showed up! However, Anjeline notified me this morning, but Ophelia didn't. I waited a little bit longer than 1 p.m., but once the clock hit two p.m., three p.m., four p.m., Ophelia didn't show up without calling me or contacting me in any way. At this point I grew a little tense and worried. The project is due this Wednesday, and now I feel hopeless. Plus, this project is worth 20% of our overall English grade. Hopefully both of them can show up on Tuesday, our last day for filming.

Yours sincerely,
An overwhelmed student who is sincerely exhausted.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Nineteenth One

19/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Yesterday and today, I experienced my first sleepover. It's quite exciting, especially considering that at the 'mature' age of fourteen younger children have had more sleepovers than I have.

Yesterday afternoon Sera, Anjeline, Charisma, Gwen and Elaine had a baking marathon consisting of cookie pizzas and brownies. Elaine and me, being the masters of the culinary arts in the group, lead the process of creating these delicious goods while Sera and Anjeline scoffed down some chips and played on their phones, Charisma ran around the house managing things and Gwen watched/helped and slurped down the leftover chocolate icing at the end. Somehow we managed to burn the brownies and underbake one of the cookie pizzas.

After this baking marathon, the group and I watched and listened to some music videos. We also heavily criticised some particular music videos, which was pretty inevitable. During this event Charisma's cousin, Charlotte, came along.

As the night came the whole group munched on a delicious meal prepared by Charisma's parents and sang happy birthday to Charisma.

Hours later, we got comfy in our pajamas and returned to our music video marathon. Later on, we transitioned into a movie marathon of 'The Princess Bride' (suggested by Dr. Marian Yao) and '10 Things I Hate About You' (suggested by the ever elegant Gwen).

Our group struggled to fall asleep as Charisma and Elaine mourned on and on about their crushes on Heath Ledger after Gwen announced to them that he had passed away. The group also continued to chat about other things until 3 a.m. as Anjeline and I tried our best to ignore their noise and snooze. After all, it was an exhausting day.

The next day we slept in and woke up to the sizzle of pancakes. Well, technically, we didn't. I woke up at 6:54 in the next room (Everyone was too loud in the main room, so I had to move!) and read some pages of my book as I waited for the others to wake from their slumber. At around ten o'clock we cooked our own pancakes and watched more music videos (we just never stop).

At two-thirty that afternoon, everyone began to leave and that was the sad conclusion to a splendid sleepover. I wish every time someone has a birthday in our group that we celebrate with sleepovers. Sera's birthday is coming soon, so hopefully we could celebrate the same way.

Yours sincerely,
Someone who has experienced their first sleepover a little later than the average age.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Eighteenth One

18/09/15

Dear Primavera,

This Friday was relaxing, as it was a teacher-only day. I managed to complete some homework and some chores.

Later this afternoon I will attend a sleepover at Charisma's house to celebrate my late birthday. I know how ridiculously late this celebration is due, but the group suggested so. What a loving bunch of ladies.

Yours sincerely,
A laid-back lass.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Seventeenth One

17/09/15

Dear Primavera,

There was a girl of Maori descent who I met in year two. Every time I took a glance at her, she always showed an enthusiastic expression. Of course we were at a young age when everyone showed gleaming smiles, but when I saw her she was as distinct as the Southern Cross constellation: something you didn't see often and is always shining brightly at each glance.

When we had free time at school, she introduced me to the magical world of music. There was a large stereo at one corner of the classroom and we would turn it on and balter around the classroom, also at times our teacher allows us to 'perform' in front of the class.

I think meeting her was one of the best parts of my early childhood, and also inspired my passion for music.

So here's to Charisma. Happy Birthday, and thanks for treating me like a real friend.

Yours sincerely,
A grateful friend.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Sixteenth One

16/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Writing and creating stories has always been an escape from the troubles in my life. I collect as much of my emotions as possible and pour them onto paper or a document.

What I wrote today was a piece that I am going to enter into a writing competition at my school. The theme for the writing competition is mental health awareness, so the piece has more emotion and deep thoughts compared to what I write to you on a daily basis. Hopefully the judges don't consider it to be too depressing or exaggerated as my dad has said to me.

Yours sincerely,
An ever-so poetic young writer.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Fifteenth One

15/9/15

Dear Primavera,

From now on, I will post letters one day late.

Today, the year nine population at my school were given an orientation of what options (also known as co-curricular classes) there are to choose from in year ten.

There are two option lines - the first one being the arts and the second being technologies - and each of the option teachers gave us clear overviews of what they teach year tens (I have to admit, all of the teachers made the options more exciting than they actually are - the power of promotion). Some of the courses last for a full year - such as languages and technologies - and some last for half the year - such as business studies and drama - unlike year nine, where all of the options last for two terms each.

I'm pretty quick and excited to choose options each year, so after school today I ranked the options from one to four - one being 'I WANT THIS' and four being 'meh, I wouldn't mind taking this - on each option line. For the first option line I ranked Spanish as first (obviously), music as second, dance as third and French as fourth. For the second option line I chose drama as first (they're doing SHAKESPEARE! I wouldn't pass that opportunity for something else!), computer science as second, food and nutrition for third and business for fourth - the rest of the options had to do with technology and art which I am poor at.

I'm already bursting with excitement for year ten - bring it on!

Yours sincerely,
A future year ten.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Fourteenth One

14/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Last night was the most difficult time to rest. After a most positive day, I fell into the pit of misery and my insecurities refused to leave my thoughts. It was difficult.

Was it because I am a teenager and going through these sporadic hormonal changes? Am I actually born this way? None of these questions can be answered, I feel.

Well, let's see how we go tomorrow.

Yours sincerely,
An exhausted (and probably depressed) young person.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Thirteenth One

13/09/15

Dear Primavera,

When midnight stroke hours ago, I didn't feel any different. No explosion of glitter fell upon me, no angel appeared to affirm this new age.

My first day of being fourteen began with a loving embrace from my mother, a sweet greeting from Rochelle, and kiss on the cheek from my father. Next, we attended Church and reconnected with God after a short period of absence. This was followed by a delectable lunch, and then a coffee meeting with friends -- well, a frappuccino meeting for me; I can't handle coffee. As the afternoon continued, the social aspect of the day ended and I needed to focus on my homework and chores; realistically I can't escape work, no matter what day it is.

Thank you to everyone who greeted me, you have made my fourteenth birthday memorable and mirifical. And thanks to my parents, this day is dedicated to you two as well.

Yours sincerely,
A grateful new fourteen-year-old.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Twelfth One

12/09/15

Dear Primavera,

I've spent the whole day playing guitar, taking naps, writing missing letters to you and completing homework.

I can't live throughout a day without being productive. I'm both a night owl and an early bird; I'm an early owl or a night bird.

And that, dear Primavera, is how I spend my last hours as a thirteen-year-old. As soon as midnight strikes, I'm fourteen.

Yours sincerely,
A sleepless thirteen-year-old.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Eleventh One

11/09/15

Dear Primavera,

"So, Marian," says Serafina, "What are you going to do for your birthday?"
My other friends stop their separate conversation and wait for my answer.
"Study," I stated calmly.
All of a sudden, five pairs of eyes stared into the depths of my soul, silent as a feather falling.

I hope that passage grabbed your attention like a hawk swooping upon prey.
Okay, I'll stop with the dramatic descriptions.

My birthday is coming soon and my friends and family are taking note of it as if it were Christmas. They ask what I'd like to do (as seen above), preach about how I'm becoming a young lady, and every time I approach them they can't talk about anything else.

To me, fourteen isn't a significant number; it will only mark how long I've lived in this dear world. But I can see how my loved ones think of it as "important" since the number also represents how much I've changed since last September. And that's a lot.

Yours sincerely,
A birthday girl-to-be.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Tenth One

10/09/15

Dear Primavera,

In religious education (R.E.), my class and I are learning about how life was created. I'm not looking for any debates here because nobody really knows how the universe was formed.

Was is caused by the 'Big Bang' - everything suddenly appeared in one take - or was there a mysterious being/s that created each part of life in seven, separate days?

I like to believe that living organisms are never allowed to know what really happened. That life is just how it is, and science and other theories cannot debunk it.

Yours sincerely,
A curious teenager.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Ninth One

9/09/15

Dear Primavera,

I know how all adults, if not most, incessantly rant about how easy us teenagers/young people have at life.

That's not true.

Each time the 3:00 pm bell rings, us students go home with overflowing amounts of assignments to complete within 16 hours.

Now, let me do some calculations based on this predicament:
16 hours - 2 hours to relax/eat meals = 14 hours to let
14 hours - 9 hours to sleep = 5 hours to let
5 hours / 7 assignments per hour = 0.71 hours per subject assignment.
= 43 minutes to complete each assignment from seven subjects (English, maths, science, subject options, etc.).

In some cases, especially with theater kids and students who come from troubled families, have to balance school with extra-curricular activities and personal cases. The homework they are given takes HOURS to complete. From the pressure, these students pass out on stage or end up having severe cases of mental illnesses.

No, I am not procrastinating; some teachers are giving us assignments that are due by impossible dates while some students are participating in out-of-school activities.

And to think that 'school' was derived from a Greek word that means 'leisure', the whole issue becomes worse.

Yours sincerely,
An uptight high school student.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Eighth One

8/09/15

Dear Primavera,

My first best friend was this girl who was born nearly a year after me. The two of us, along with our mothers and her brother, shared every single moment of my early childhood. My earliest memory of ours was when her mother placed her next to me on the same crib. She was a miniscule handbag and as delicate as rice paper.

When I left the Philippines, I remembered that it was the most devastating moment in our bond. I recall a photo taken at my farewell party where she pouted and avoided the camera, in utter disgust that she was about to lose a dear mate.

I see recent pictures of her and they remind me of the times we spent as little babies. I'm proud of her and how well she's doing in her life.

This letter is dedicated to my lovely cousin, Mikee. I hope you had a splendid birthday. I miss you so much!

Love,
Ate Maui

Letters to Primavera ~ The Seventh One

7/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Why is computer programming so difficult?
I thought coding was this wonderful world of ease and knowledge, where you get the chance to create websites and control robots when really it's about functions and endless panic.

Have you watched 'Big Hero 6'? During the climax of the film, Hero is feeling desolate and then Baymax plays this montage of Tadashi creating Baymax. You can see how disappointed Tadashi seems throughout the montage, but after over 70 tries and countless hours he begins to make Baymax work.

What computer coding has taught me is to never give up, and that all the stress you get is worth it at the end.

Yours sincerely,
Marian "why is computer science so hard?" Yao

Letters to Primavera ~ The Sixth One

6/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Since you came to New Zealand, my mother warns me to leave my heater off since it's "warmer and the heater is broken from previous usages." However, it is FREEZING! Your buddy, Winter, has refused to leave our presence. Tell them to disappear, or consequences will prevail.

Today I interviewed an entrepreneur. He and his wife run a new travel agency and are acquaintances with my dad. The interview actually ran smoothly. which was unexpected because I can't talk to people. You've read my second letter, and in that letter I mentioned that I become insecure when I talk to adults (actually, make that anyone I talk to. Even friends and family). The entrepreneur and his wife were skillful talkers which made the interview more comfortable, as well as my dad being there to accompany me. Now that the social interaction part is done, I can create the presentation in the comfort of being alone.

Yours sincerely,
A girl who has social anxiety.

Letters to Primavera ~ The Fifth One

5/09/15

Dear Primavera,

As an exhausted wreck right now, I hereby declare that September is the busiest month I've had so far in 2015, and we're only five days into it!

I spent the day rehearsing for a dance, writing letters to you, finishing up on assignments, and completing chores. All in all, a productive day, but I feel the desperate need to collapse into bed and dig my head into my pillows.

Later this month I will turn another year older, finish 3/4 of my life as a year nine, and host a festival while simultaneously documenting everything to you. Wish me all the luck in the universe, Primavera.

Yours sincerely,
Marian

Letters to Primavera ~ The Fourth One

4/09/15

*This letter was supposed to be released yesterday, but due to my busy schedule it has been posted today. However, this letter is written as if I wrote it yesterday.

Dear Primavera,

Most people think Friday is the best day of the week. However, they are wrong (in my opinion). Fridays are the epitome of evil. Here's how my Friday went:

I woke up this morning to the voice of my dad reminding me that I overslept. I quickly got ready for school and didn't check my bag. For the day, I had English first, an R.E. test second, social studies third, maths fourth, and P.E. fifth. As I was editing my creative writing piece in English, a classmate asked me for my R.E. book, since the test was open-notes. I pulled out what I assumed to be my R.E. book but was actually my business studies book! There I was, in the middle of English class, panicking and disrupting my classmates' work. Splendid.

As I panicked, I began to weep. Luckily, another classmate - let's call her Harriett - sat beside me, still writing her piece, but took the risk of helping me out. I told Harriett that I left my book at home, and then she asked me if someone was at home and able to fetch my book. When I said that my mum would be able to do that, she told me to go to the student counter and call home there, since I didn't have a phone. At the student counter, the phone couldn't work, and so I returned to English, still spouting out tears. My teacher noticed how I still looked miserable, and so she offered me her phone (which was unexpected of her since she is pretty strict and the situation didn't relate to English). I dialed my home, but nobody picked up the phone.

The end of period 1 bell rang and the pressure intensified. I was crumbling into pieces but Harriett, my guardian angel, told our R.E. teacher that I had forgotten my book. My R.E. teacher glanced at my crimson coloured face and told me that I could take the test next week! Hurrah!

...But then I had to sit at the back of a silent classroom, dying of boredom and waiting for the end of period 2 bell to ring.

The rest of the day went well, despite the horrifying beginning - thank goodness for that.

Yours sincerely,
Marian

Letters to Primavera ~ The Third One

3/9/15

Dear Primavera,

Why is it that when I need things the most, they never appear? I've been experiencing a severe case of Writer's Block in the midst of writing a creative piece for English; it's been IRRITATING me! I can't seem to write well this week, so I'll just end this letter like it is. Right now I need to take a rest and restore my creativity.

Also, a calamity of assessments has fallen upon me, so I apologise for these short letters.

Yours sincerely,
Marian

Letters to Primavera ~ The Second One

2/09/15

Dear Primavera,

When I talk to an older person, I feel more vulnerable and insecure. I take into consideration that every action I do, every word I say will be mocked by them. I know how adults doubt this generation of teenagers, so it feels like I need to mould myself into the teenager they want me to be. 

All I want is for older people to encourage young people to do more. If we continue to grow up with discrimination against our age group, the time to come will lack leaders, scientists and humanitarians. Nobody wants that. Ever.  

Yours sincerely,

Marian

Letters to Primavera ~ The First One

1/09/15

Dear Primavera,

Nice to meet you! I'm Marian Yao. I've decided to write to you since I'd like to welcome my favourite season with a warm salutation, and also because I think my usual one blog post per week can't suffice.

I live in the humble country of New Zealand and have nearly finished 3/4 of my first year at high school. I have a small group of friends whom I refer to as individually: Gwen, Sera[fina], Anjeline, Elaine and Charisma. I live with my parents and my younger sister whom I refer to as Rochelle. In my limited spare time I write, read, bake sweet treats, sing, dance frivolously and take thirty-minute naps. Basically, you could describe me as a hermit.

The idea of this concept is derived from Carrie Hope Fletcher's Letters to Autumn segment. Every time I watch any of her videos, I immediately get this jolt of creativity inside of my mind. Thanks to her, here we are!

I really hope I could see your bright colours as soon as the sun rises tomorrow.

Yours sincerely,
Marian

Letters to Electra - Breaking The Ice

21/08/15

Dear Electra,

Despite experiencing moderate dizziness, having had P.E. for last period and having to stay at school for a bit longer than usual, I am still committed to writing you a letter tonight.

Speaking of staying at school longer than 3:00 pm, I had to remain behind (along with some others) to prepare a dance for an upcoming Filipino festival. As I entered the rehearsal room, I overheard some people beginning their first conversation by revealing each other's crushes! Seriously? When I meet new people, I prefer to break the ice by talking about the environment we're surrounded by, or introducing them to my background. (Random tangent: it's scarce for me to meet new people; I'm too self-conscious!)

But in all seriousness, please try your best to leave a good impression on someone, or behave as yourself - people love it when they meet new individuals who have a sufficient amount of sincerity.

----

Whatever you do, DO NOT add tea tree oil to your toothpaste! There have been websites saying that tea tree oil can cure gum diseases and keeps your mouth clear of plaque. Last Tuesday morning, I tried to add a slight drop of it to my toothpaste and it burnt my mouth with sharp force trauma. It was as if I had anaesthesia all over again. This wasted my time and the painful sensation persisted for two days.

The lesson learned here is to be sceptical about the Internet - you know what? This also pertains to real-life situations, such as when a stranger offers you a ride home/some food. Promise me this, Electra: keep yourself safe.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - My Opinion On The Boyfriend Fad

16/8/15

Dear Electra,

During this week, I swear I talked to ten people who came to school sick. They knew they were unwell, but somehow it did not occur to them that they could've just stayed home. Some people come to school because they're afraid their friends would be lonely without them. I think that is very selfless, but I think it would've been better for them to stay at home.

I remember waking up to dizzy spells on a day when I had to take an exam. I came to school that day knowing I took the risk of potentially losing consciousness at any second. As the minutes passed, I felt worse and worse, but when it was time to take the exam, I fainted on my desk before managing to write my name. Minutes later, I woke up and generated enough sagacity to finish the exam before passing out again. Despite my lethargic mental state, I think it was worth coming to school; I didn't pass out as dramatically as actors do in movies.

From this experience, here's what I've learnt: Only come to school if you are feeling well. If you need to come to school for an exam, stay at home until it's time for that test. Don't stay at school after that exam is finished unless you've miraculously healed. This applies for work also.

-----

Mother, inspecting my face: "You're going to get a boyfriend soon."
Me, with bulging eyes: "I solemnly swear that will never happen."

I know I'm still young, but adults and older teenagers look at me with sharp glances and hurl love predictions every time we communicate. Here is my response, quoting Beatrice Duke:

via youtube.com

If you know me in real life, you know how much I proclaim this.

Why I Don't Need a Boyfriend:

• He will distract me from my studies
• He will distract me from my passions (writing, music, science, etc.)
• I'm not the type of person to commit to another living being
• I don't want to hurt another living being.

I have friends who are in 'devoted' relationships and they seem extremely happy. Not to be pessimistic (I'm complaining about relationships. COME ON.); there's the inevitability they will get hurt and all that happiness is torn. The next time they see them out and about with a new significant other, they will feel disgusted and depressed. I don't want to feel that way. Whenever I experience a new happening, that happening will cling onto me for the rest of my life and will impact my actions. I don't want to change, I just want to stay ever so adamant and live my life the way I like to.


Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - Who Are You?

7/08/15

Dear Electra,

At one of our lunchtime meetings this week, one of us (maybe Elaine? I'm not sure) brought up the topic of my writing letters to you.
"Who is 'Electra'?" asks a friend whose name I have forgotten. (It definitely wasn't Serafina, nor Gwen. It was either Elaine or Charisma.)
"She -- I mean 'it' -- is my diary --"
"Wait, does your diary write back to you? Do you exchange letters?"
"No, I need to explain further --"
"What is the concept of this sentiment?"
"OKAY, CALM DOWN," I instructed. "I found the term 'Dear Diary' blasé and changed it. I derived the name 'Electra' from Marina and the Diamonds' current album back then--" (Electra Heart) "--and thus, the birth of Electra and Marian. Not only is my blog an online diary; it is a way for the adult version of me to reminisce my years as an immature teenager. Are there any more questions?" 

They asked me about how I felt exposing these letters to the online world. The reason why I changed the people's names that are mentioned in these letters is because I'd like to keep them as surreptitious as possible. I also need to think twice about what I mention in these letters. If it's about the loud conversations I have with my friends, advice to others, what book I am reading at the moment et al, I automatically have something to write about. 

----

After watching the beautiful Carrie Hope Fletcher's 'Letters to Autumn' videos during this week, I have a blogging idea that will hopefully (get it?) work. During the month of September I will publish quick and short posts every day about my life. This new segment will be titled 'The September Saga' and each post will begin with 'Dear Primavera', 'primavera' meaning 'spring' in Spanish, the birth of spring for the year. Let's see how it goes!

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - An Academic Crisis Aborted

1/08/15

Dear Electra,

After a super long separation from you, here I am sitting on my comfortable bed writing a new letter! Since term 3 had begun last week, I've had to study for my tests and complete assessments in subjects that weren't my strengths. It was extremely provoking to complete tasks that needed to be submitted or fully learned in a strict time frame. I have to admit, I threw a few tantrums due to the stress.

Speaking of tests, when I received my geometry grade yesterday, it only took five seconds for someone to appear in front of me and scream, "MARIAN, WHAT DID YOU GET?"
FIVE SECONDS after peering at my percentage. Oh, my gosh. It was awful and humiliating. I jumped and slammed my paper down on my desk, concealing it with my arms.

When you ask someone for their test result and they refuse, please leave them alone. Don't threaten them or snatch their test away from them. If you compare test scores with a classmate, that will make you more insecure if you're the one with the lower grade. 
But if you're desperate to hear some of your classmate's grades, it's inevitable that at least three of them will proudly announce their grades over a loud speaker phone.

----
Now that rant is over, let's move on to a nice topic. Also yesterday, the friendship troupe (Gwen, Sera (previously Clara/Regina), Elaine (previously Mary), Charisma, Anjeline (previously Sakura) and me) were congregating at lunchtime as we do. There was an insightful conversation between Gwen and Charisma about Gwen's religion since Charisma had never heard of it. Since I had nothing much to do (HAAAA!) with the conversation, I borrowed Sakura's iPhone 6 and filmed them, because who
wouldn't film their friends having an informative chit-chat?

Gwen and Charisma maintained a calm composure as I filmed them, but Elaine, who was squashed in between the two pulled faces and managed to grab the phone from me and capture my shy, problematic, pimply face.

When I got the phone back Sera, who was fantasizing behind the conference with Anjeline, suddenly squealed of excitement. Outside the lens stood a lone girl filming five heads of black and brown on an iPhone 6. I didn't mind not seeing why Sera bursted. It was pretty entertaining to capture my friends spending a lunchtime together, all content and loose. Plus, it would be kept in a secure place until we uncover when we graduate high school.

I can picture it! My friends and I, ditching the graduation party to open a box of our year nine shenanigans. Yes Electra, we are a group of friends willing to uncover memories, rather than creating more.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Marian's 2015 Reads - 'Anne of Avonlea'

13/7/15

via http://wattsalot.com/anne-of-avonlea

Title: Anne of Avonlea
Author: Lucy Maud Montgomery
Original Publisher: L.C. Page & Co.
Original Publication Date: 1909
Pages: 421 (Vintage Classics Edition)

Why, look at that cover! The artist has captured the natural essence of Anne's deep connection with Avonlea (the gorgeous landscape), Anne's ridiculous encounter with a jersey cow (the cow), and Anne's infatuation with literature (the book placed next to her). So much symbolism in one cover!

'Anne of Avonlea' is the second edition of L.M. Montgomery's fantastic and addictive book series. Anne Shirley is now 16 years of age and teaches at the local Avonlea school, simultaneously completing her studies in correspondence and being a secretary for the 'Avonlea Village Improvement Society'. Throughout the book, we meet new characters such as 'An Irate Neighbour', a pair of twins Marilla had adopted, and a new favourite pupil of Anne's named Paul Irving. Marilla Cuthbert, Diana Barry, and Gilbert Blythe return as supporting characters once again.

I took pleasure in reading this book because the main themes are love, individuality and decisions. Firstly, love is reflected upon because there is a rekindling of a romance between old lovers. Love also takes place when the twins are adopted -- Marilla and Anne now have young hearts to fulfill. Secondly, individuality is cogitated in 'Anne of Avonlea' through the meeting of one of the new characters, Miss Lavendar. Everybody in Avonlea thought of Miss Lavendar as a queer old lady, but when Anne and Diana met her there was a beautiful maiden concealed within her facade. Thirdly, decisions took place in this book through Anne's thoughts. It may not seem of it, but the whole plot represented Anne's risky decision of going to university and leaving Marilla alone with the twins.

'Anne of Avonlea' was a bit humdrum in a sense that nothing really happened in this book. As beautiful as this story is, not many opportunities ceased to affect Anne's character. But I shall remember all book series have at least one sequel that lacks an effective plot.

For the remainder of this book review, I will answer a questionnaire I found on Tumblr that accompanies this book very well. It may have more to do with my personal experiences.

Compared to the first book, how did you like Anne of Avonlea? Compared to the rest of the series (if you’ve read it)?
I perceived it as a 'feel-good' book. Nothing very tumultuous happened in 'Anne of Avonlea' compared to its predecessor, which I thought lacked empathy.

Anne begins teaching at age 16. When you were sixteen, would you have been able to handle a class of unruly pupils of all ages?
When I'm sixteen, I'd only be able to teach pupils also sixteen or younger. If I were in Anne's position, I'd induce a concussion from all the stress!

How do you feel about Davy and Dora? Love Davy? Love Dora? (Personally I’m like Anne: “Marilla, it may be a dreadful thing to say, but honestly, I like Davy better than Dora, for all she’s so good.”
Davy's character had more depth. I prefer rambunctious Davy over angelic Dora. It means that Anne could reform him and explore the interior of his disposition.

What about the other new characters? (Mr. & Mrs. Harrison, Paul Irving and his father, Lavender Lewis 
and Charlotta the Fourth, also Fred because for some reason he was only introduced in this book)
Paul Irving was such a darling in this book. I never wanted him to grow up as in 'Anne's House of Dreams'. I could relate to Miss Lavendar by her peculiar reputation and her splendid imagination.

Speaking of Fred, how do you feel about Fred and Diana?
DIANA AND FRED! HAHA! Pardon, my colloquialism. It's strange to see Fred appear out of the unexpected. It makes me feel as if Fred's only goal in life were to marry Diana Barry. 

Did you whisper, “It’s okay, Gilbert baby, you only have to wait six more years?” every time Gil showed up? Because I did. 
Oh, poor Gilbert! I have to admit that I did. However, it was more: "ANNE, CAN YOU NOT?"

What did you think about Mr. Irving and Lavender’s romance? I thought it was the most romantic thing ever (coming together after years of separation), so maybe I’m like Anne in that respect.
Yes! It was oh, so romantic! Nevertheless, I wanted answers to why they fought. Did one of them need more time to understand themselves? Did either of them need to manage their career needs? 

Speaking of romance: favorite Anne/Gilbert scene? Other than the ending, I mean. They didn’t have enough, it seemed.
EVERY MOMENT. Anne could just look at him and I'd swoon.

Do you think Anne grew up a lot in this book? Were you grown up at ages 16/17/18?
Anne could conquer the world at the ages of 16-18! Anne's age was considered "grown-up" because there wasn't much to study back then. When I reach the ages of 16-18, I'd be completing my NCEA levels and trying to enter university. 

Finally, THAT ENDING. Best foreshadowing ever? Best depiction of romance ever? Best passage ever? SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS.
Oh, my Gilbert. It was tragical but amorous. I wanted more, but the best stories end with an ethereal conclusion.

This closes my 'Anne of Avonlea' book review! The Tumblr discussion questions were written by the user avonleavignettes. I've written this review out of sincerity and I hope you've enjoyed reading this lengthy review!

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - An Abstract Lesson in Friendship

3/07/15

Dear Electra,

Is it wrong to be mad at people who are smarter than you? I asked Gwen that question this week, and she advised me that it's fine. My other older peers may seem to consider this "a ridiculous form of jealousy." I wish I weren't able to possess this unbecoming characteristic, but I can't change that part of me! It's been part of me for so long that it's inevitable to appear whenever an intelligent classmate surpasses me.

For the first time in 2015, I cried at school. In music, we were assigned to write a piece which told a story, just like Peter and the Wolf. My group consisted of Gwen, Sakura, Charisma, two other girls and me. When I thought we had finished our work, our teacher sauntered towards us and uttered, "Let's hear it with narration." (by "it," he meant what we've done so far.)
When he sat down on the table, my jaw dropped and my eyes popped.
"But Sir, we don't have narration," I stammered and then turned around. "What are we going to do, Gwen?"
Gwen gave a silent shrug.
I guess I'll have to do this myself, I thought as I turned on the keyboard.
"There was a girl named... Cordelia! And, and... she was walking alone... to get some exercise?" I narrated vaguely.
Next, I pointed at the glockenspiel. The glockenspiel replied with delicate rings.
"And, and... behold her was an enchanted forest!"
The tubular pipes chimed after my signal.
"And then--"
"Instead of cueing them in, you all should know when to play," intervened Sir.
The whole operation failed miserably! Sir smiled at the end despite the tragic performance. With this, I excused myself to hide my crestfallen tears.
It was definitely better outside of the music suite. The bushes quivered in the refreshing breeze, all was at peace.
That is until Gwen came outside and attempted to cheer me up.
"Marian, you did well! If I were conducting this whole assignment, it would fall apart," confessed Gwen.
I remained silent.
"Although, if I were you, I'd lose it and burst into tears," she added.
My tears came to a halt a couple of moments later. I turned around and became surprised at the sight of Sakura. She had been there a few seconds after Gwen came to me. The former was as silent as a ninja which gave me a tiny fright.
"Thank you for cheering me up, guys," I thanked my friends as I walked with them after class. My swollen eyes and runny nose persisted at this point.
Gwen and Sakura smiled. I am delighted to have friends who can tolerate my naive emotions.

That concludes the last week of term 2! I wish that my schoolmates will remain safe and have a hedonistic time during the holidays. As usual, I will be taking a break from writing these letters during the upcoming two weeks, but 'Marian's 2015 Reads' will remain active. See you next week, Electra!

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - Marian vs. Changes

26/6/15

Dear Electra,

So many things have happened this week that I cannot compress into one letter. If I were to rate the events of the past five days, I'd score it a 7.7/10. Meeting my friends and learning a great deal at school were two of the significant factors of this week.

My school will be competing in a speech and drama competition against other schools in a couple of months' time. Since I'm now a year nine, I plan to audition with 'The Highwayman' by Alfred Noyes. I chose that particular poem because Anne recites it beautifully in 'Anne of Green Gables' and also because it has such an exhilarating tone to it.
"The wind was a torrent among the gusty trees.
"The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas."
- Alfred Noyes, 'The Highway Man'

On Tuesday, before completing a Spanish exam, Gwen and her classmates entered the class while CHEWING ON GUM! This wasn't how I imagined Gwen to be! When I asked her why she and some of her classmates were eating, she replied: "Because I want to. People change, Marian."
Next, I began to taste the bitterness of tension. Ophelia, the girl sitting on the other side of me, patted me on the back to relieve the tension.
"HOW IN THE HECK DO I STAY CALM IN A STRESSFUL TIME LIKE THIS? We have to grow up," I exclaimed, "and CHANGE!"
Sentiments began to broaden. Inexplicably, Gwen then talked about how someday we will be mothers.
"I will never become a mother," I admitted.
"Oh, you will. I know it," Gwen stipulated. "I will, too. Someday."
Last year I've decided that I shall grow and die an old maid, or that I shall be married into the career of biochemistry and writing. I shall also shun the people who criticise my decision of remaining a bachelorette/spinster.

Before I close this letter, I'd like to greet Dr. Dad a splendid happy birthday for tomorrow! You may be growing older, but the flowers and the trees and your own children shall remind you of how youthful the world remains. Enjoy it as it lasts.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - Emotional Girls

17/6/15

Dear Electra,

Remember that Filipino shared lunch I wrote about in the past letter? While I was munching on some delicious viands, Giovanna, my classmate from last year, approached me and began a positive chat. Abruptly, in the midst of our conversation, she mentioned that the form class I am in is the best out of all the other form classes in year nine. When the words slipped into my ears I was appalled, astonished, and amazed! Giovanna is part of the accelerate class and she said that out of unforeseen circumstances. Look, Electra, I'm not trying to offend my class, but in this world of psychology the intelligent are more disciplined and well-rounded than many people. I adore my classmates as much as I adore school itself. We help each other out in times of despondency and plain, unromantic boredom.

I am currently in English class writing to you rather than completing my work. We are studying a marvellous topic named 'Curiosity Killed the Cat'. This strand encourages us to research events that took part on our birthdays. If nothing interesting happened on our birthdays, Ms. allowed us to research about people who share the same birthday as us. None of the events that took place on Sept. 13 captured my fascination. Instead, I chose to research about Roald Dahl (Fact of the day: my father doesn't know who in the world he is! What a kettle of fish!) because he created an extraordinary world when the bibliophiles thirsted for it most.

"Dear old world," she murmured, "you are very lovely, and I am glad to be alive in you."
- Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - "A Fresh Pair of Eyes"

12/6/15

Dear Electra,

It's FRIDAY! The day when all desolation is dismissed by delight. This day has been a mix between melancholy and merriment: firstly, I took a difficult exam on religion; secondly, I had social studies and English (two out of my five favourite subjects at school) today; thirdly, I gained the most frightening test score of my year nine career; fourthly, my school's Filipino group and I ate an appetizing shared lunch (or, as Kiwis tend to call it, a "free feed"); fifthly, Willow Pape lost a member; finally, Willow Pape and I had a marvellous lunchtime feasting on leftover cake (albeit losing said member).

Two days ago, I baked a pound cake (which was the main reason why this letter was not published two days ago - I was breathless!). The recipe I followed to make this cake was from the bonus section of Puffin Classic's edition of 'Anne of Green Gables'. I decorated the pound cake with saccharine vanilla icing and chocolate chips. I have modest virtues, but I shall say that I followed the recipe excellently and it was not a bit too dry nor too saturated. Even Charisma marvelled how soft the cake. You should've seen the astonished looks on Sierra, Gwen, and Charisma's faces when they took their first bite, Electra! (Sakura was not at school today and Sabrina is on a diet).

Once I announced my novel to Dr. Dad, he advised me to get a "fresh pair of eyes" to scan every chapter I've written so far. I needed someone who was intelligent, a close friend, and someone interested in what I do. Well, since my book is headed towards teenagers, Gwen would be the best candidate. She's been very supportive and enjoys where the story is going. She's also desperate to read chapter three, which I am currently planning. I remain in the hopes that you and Gwen will clutch onto a hardback copy of my book in a few months' time.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Letters to Electra - What is Revealed Shall Remain Revealed

3/6/15

Dear Electra,

Remember that novel I mentioned to you about a few months ago? I am re-writing it because I have changed it from first-person to third-person. When I read 'Anne of Green Gables', I began to believe that first-person wouldn't describe the sceneries of my story well, and I want other characters' points-of-view to be included also. I began re-writing it after 'Beauty and the Beast' finished; and still writing the midst of chapter two. I took a risk and read the first chapter to Gwen in music yesterday, and now she's desperate to read what I've written so far in chapter two. Are writers allowed to reveal a whole chapter of their books to others? I wouldn't necessarily ask you since you're not a writer yourself, Electra. Oh well, if Gwen read it, she will never forget it.

This letter shall remain short since my life has been uneventful lately. I have mountainous stacks of homework to complete and upcoming tests to study for. A new 'Pictures Into Words' post will be released this week to ask for your forgiveness for the petite length of this novel.

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★ 

Marian's 2015 Reads - 'Anne of Green Gables'

1/6/15

via http://blogs.publishersweekly.com/

Title: Anne of Green Gables
Author: L.M. Montgomery
Publisher (of this edition): Puffin Books
Original Publisher: L.C.Page & Co.
Publication date (in this edition): 2008
Original Publication Date: 1908
Pages: 427

For this book review, let us travel back in time to when technology did not conquer our everyday lives. By "traveling back in time," I mean reviewing a classic novel such as 'Anne of Green Gables'. I stumbled upon this franchise when I was scrolling through Tumblr and saw a post about Anne and Gilbert. After watching the three movie adaptations, I decided to read the first book.

'Anne of Green Gables' is the story of a despairing red-headed orphan named Anne Shirley who is adopted by two siblings named Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. The adoption of Anne was quite fortuitous since Matthew and Marilla intended to receive a boy, but as Anne develops her new life at Green Gables, the foster parents begin to love and decide to keep her. In the early midst of the book Anne reveals that her dreams include staying at Green Gables and meeting a female kindred spirit. Serendipity swoops its way into the story as Anne meets Diana Barry, and swears to keep their friendship eternal just minutes after they first meet. As I have mentioned in my recent 'Pictures Into Words' segment on EAM, Anne and Gilbert Blythe did begin their relationship on the wrong foot, but as the end approaches you'll be able to finally read about how this pairing became friends - one of my favourite parts from this novel.

The author of this book, Lucy Maud Montgomery (L.M. Montgomery), came up with the concept of this storyline from her surroundings in Prince Edward Island, the same main setting in this novel. From a forgotten source, I read that Anne Shirley was the character Lucy Maud dreamed to be. 

I'm not an orphan, my hair may not be a rich red and I certainly do not come from Canada, but I feel as if Anne and I are kindred spirits. We are both stubborn, read a lot of books, share the same age and have broad imaginations.

As cheesy as it sounds, I cannot possibly express how much I adore this book series in words only. I'm already reading the third book within a few weeks! L.M. Montgomery is now my favourite author. I definitely recommend this book/book series to people who appreciate the simple country life or have magnificent imaginations. Stay tuned during the upcoming weeks as I review the whole series (if I can find 'Anne of Windy Poplars' and 'Anne's House of Dreams')!

Stay powerful and beautiful as usual,

- M ★