An Exploration of Courage: The Heart Unmasked

    Courage, often depicted as a heroic act on a battlefield, is far more nuanced and pervasive. It's not merely the absence of fear, but the triumph over it, the resolute step forward despite its chilling presence. It's the quiet strength that allows us to face adversity, embrace vulnerability, and pursue our convictions, even when the path ahead is shrouded in uncertainty.  

    Courage isn't reserved for extraordinary circumstances; it's woven into the fabric of everyday life. It's the child who stands up to a bully, the artist who shares their work with the world, the individual who chooses honesty over expediency. It's the willingness to confront our own limitations and push beyond our comfort zones.

THE MANY FACETS OF COURAGE:

    Courage manifests in various forms, each reflecting a unique aspect of the human spirit:  

• Physical Courage: The ability to confront physical danger or pain. This is often what we traditionally associate with courage, but it's only one facet.
• Moral Courage: The strength to stand up for one's beliefs, even in the face of social pressure or opposition. This involves acting according to one's conscience, regardless of the consequences.  
• Emotional Courage: The willingness to embrace vulnerability, to share our feelings, and to connect with others on a deeper level. This involves facing the risk of rejection or hurt.
• Intellectual Courage: The openness to challenge established ideas and explore new perspectives. This involves questioning assumptions and embracing intellectual risk.  
• Resilience: the ability to bounce back from adversity. Courage is shown when one continues to move forward, even after setbacks.  

CULTIVATING COURAGE:

    Courage is not an innate trait; it's a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. Here are some ways to cultivate courage:  

• Facing Fears Gradually: Start by confronting small fears, gradually building confidence and resilience.  
• Setting Realistic Goals: Break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps, making them less intimidating.  
• Practicing Mindfulness: Cultivating awareness of our thoughts and emotions, allowing us to manage fear and anxiety.  
• Seeking Support: Surrounding ourselves with supportive people who encourage and inspire us.  
• Embracing Vulnerability: Recognizing that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength, and allowing ourselves to be open and authentic.  
• Learning from Failure: Viewing failure as an opportunity for growth and learning, rather than a setback.  
• Acting with Purpose: Aligning our actions with our values and beliefs, giving us a sense of purpose and direction.  

THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF COURAGE:

    Courage is contagious. When we witness acts of courage, we are inspired to be courageous ourselves. It creates a ripple effect, transforming individuals and communities. It allows us to overcome obstacles, achieve our dreams, and create a more just and compassionate world.

    In a world that often demands conformity and safety, courage is the spark that ignites change. It's the heart unmasked, the spirit unfettered, and the unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit to overcome any challenge. Let us not overlook the quiet strength that resides within each of us. Courage is not a finite resource reserved for a select few; it is a muscle we can all develop, one brave act at a time. It is in these everyday moments of facing our fears, speaking our truth, and persevering through adversity that the true essence of courage shines through, illuminating our lives and the lives of those around us.

REFERENCES – accessed as at 16 to 18 April 2025

Courage | Authentic Happiness - University of Pennsylvania

Courage isn't always loud: The silent strength of daily battles | The Daily Star

Courage: An Essential Virtue for Authentic Living - Positive Psychology

Strategies Necessary for Moral Courage | OJIN - The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing

The Courage to Lead: Activating Four Types of Courage for Success - TEPSA

Courage: An Essential Virtue for Authentic Living - Positive Psychology

Harwood Prize for Intellectual Courage - AIER

How to cultivate courage and make fear your friend - Chasing Wonder

DISCLAIMER:  This article has been written with approximately 20% aid from AI (Gemini & Copilot) 

 

Integridad: Ang Ubod ng Tunay na Pagkatao

Ang integridad ang pundasyon kung saan itinayo ang tiwala, respeto, at pagiging tunay. Ito ay isang katangian na higit pa sa indibidwal na mga gawa at kumakatawan sa pagkakahanay ng mga pagpapahalaga, salita, at gawa ng isang tao. Nakaugat sa katapatan, pagiging maaasahan, at moral na tapang, ang integridad ang siyang gabay natin sa mga hamon at desisyon sa buhay.

Sa pinakapuso nito, ang integridad ay tungkol sa paggawa ng tama kahit walang nakatingin. Ang panloob na pangakong ito na itaguyod ang mga prinsipyo ng etika ay nagpapakita ng pagiging pare-pareho at tunay. Ang mga taong nagtataglay ng integridad ay nakakakuha ng respeto ng iba dahil sila ay kumikilos nang may katapatan at tumatangging ikompromiso ang kanilang mga pamantayang moral, kahit na sa ilalim ng presyon.

Ang integridad ay nahahayag sa ilang mga paraan:

• Katapatan: Pagsasabi ng totoo at pagiging tapat sa komunikasyon
• Pagiging Maaasahan: Pagtupad sa mga pangako at pagiging mapagkakatiwalaan
• Pagiging Patas: Pakikitungo sa iba nang may pagkakapantay-pantay at katarungan, anuman ang mga kalagayan
• Pananagutan: Pagtanggap ng responsibilidad para sa sariling mga gawa at ang kanilang mga resulta

Ang kahalagahan ng integridad ay hindi lamang limitado sa indibidwal na karakter; hinuhubog nito ang mga organisasyon, komunidad, at lipunan. Sa mga lugar ng trabaho, ang integridad ay nagtataguyod ng kultura ng tiwala at pagtutulungan. Ang mga namomonu na nagpapakita ng integridad ay nagbibigay-inspirasyon sa kanilang mga koponan, nagpapalakas ng moral, at nagpapatibay sa katatagan ng organisasyon. Sa mga relasyon, pinapalalim ng integridad ang mga ugnayan, nagtataguyod ng pagkakaunawaan, at nagpapatibay sa pangako.

Gayunpaman, ang pagpapanatili ng integridad ay hindi walang mga hamon. Ang mga tukso, takot sa paghuhusga, o personal na pakinabang ay maaaring sumubok sa ating katatagan. Ang paglampas sa mga hadlang na ito ay nangangailangan ng pagkilala sa sarili, tapang, at isang pangako sa personal na paglago. Sa pamamagitan ng pagmumuni-muni sa ating mga pagpapahalaga at pagbibigay-priyoridad sa pangmatagalang epekto kaysa sa panandaliang mga benepisyo, mapapatibay natin ang ating integridad at mamuhay nang may layunin at pagiging tunay.

Sa isang mundo na madalas pinahahalagahan ang kaginhawahan kaysa sa prinsipyo, ang integridad ay nananatiling isang tanglaw ng pag-asa at gabay. Ipinapaalala nito sa atin ang kahalagahan ng pananatiling tapat sa ating mga pagpapahalaga, paninindigan sa harap ng kahirapan, at pagkilos nang may kabaitan at habag. Sa huli, ang integridad ay hindi lamang isang katangian kundi isang paraan ng pamumuhay – isang pangako sa pamumuhay nang naaayon sa kung ano ang mabuti, patas, at makatarungan.

In conclusion, integrity is not merely a moral ideal; it is a way of life. It is a guiding light that shapes our decisions, actions, and interactions with others. Whether in personal, professional, or societal contexts, integrity remains a timeless and invaluable virtue. By embracing integrity, we not only elevate ourselves but also contribute to a world grounded in trust, respect, and ethical values.

NOTE: My first attempt at writing in Tagalog - hope it makes sense. Abangan ang susunod na kabanata. 

This is Our Earth, Our World, Ourselves.

This is our only Earth, our world. A simple phrase, yet as a geoscientist, it echoes a profound truth: we bear a timeless responsibility for the Earth and its inhabitants. But how do we truly claim this world as ours, beyond mere ownership? It begins with an inward journey, a fundamental understanding that our capacity for external change is directly linked to our internal state.

Consider this: can a turbulent mind truly foster peace in the world? Can a heart burdened with self-doubt truly extend compassion to others? Before we can heal the planet, we must first heal ourselves. Before we can extend a hand to a struggling neighbour, we must first offer kindness to the internal struggles within.

Imagine a garden choked with weeds. To cultivate vibrant flowers, we must first clear the debris. Similarly, we cannot purify our rivers if our minds are polluted with negativity. We cannot protect the rainforest if our hearts are consumed by internal conflict.

The spectre of global conflict, the chilling reality of nuclear power, has shown us the grim potential of collective destruction. Yet, we struggle to find a path to collective harmony. But while grand solutions elude us, individual action remains potent. We can begin by cultivating a culture of dignity, honouring our own inherent worth and extending that same respect to every person we encounter.

This isn't about lofty ideals; it's about practical steps. It's about pausing before reacting with anger, choosing empathy over judgment, and recognising the shared humanity that binds us. By tending to the garden of our own souls, we create a ripple effect, fostering a world where both people and nature can flourish.

Let us not simply claim this world as ours but actively create a world worthy of that claim!

 

Motels - Highway Stop Overs

Someone once said, 'The road is always better than the motel.' It's a sentiment that, upon reflection, unlocks a profound truth about a life well-lived. In my youth, like many, I chased aspirations, believing that reaching them would bring lasting satisfaction. But I soon learned that life is a continuous pursuit. Each achieved goal, a 'motel,' offers only a brief respite, a temporary pause on the endless road of self-fulfillment.

True creative living thrives on motion, on constant movement away from stagnation. The journey itself, the very act of trying, is where the true happiness lies. As an amateur photographer (see: JPLlorca), the thrill isn't the albums or gallery display, but the moment of capturing the perfect shot. For me as a geologist, this road has taken many forms – the field exploration of minerals, the geological search and researches of precious metals, the countries and places visited, the people and multi-cultural experiences, and the lecture platform. Each 'motel' along these paths offered a moment for reflection, but also served as a springboard for new adventures.

The beauty of this journey is amplified when we travel not just through the external world, but also within the landscapes of our minds and spirits. We must diligently clear the dead ends of negativity, ensuring our internal compass points towards growth. The anticipation of self-fulfillment, the unwavering belief in our potential, transforms the road ahead into a vista of boundless possibility. Each step, each challenge overcome, strengthens the prospect of our greatest achievement.

Onion Skinned?

In today’s social media freedom, we know that some people are easily offended by perceived slights, requiring others to constantly monitor their words and actions.  This hypersensitivity often stems from low self-esteem.  Those with a fragile sense of self interpret seemingly innocuous remarks or actions as personal attacks, while individuals with healthy self-esteem are generally unfazed by such perceived slights.  Even genuine criticism, though potentially painful, has a far less devastating impact on someone with a strong sense of self-worth.  Conversely, those plagued by self-doubt and insecurity are prone to jealousy and perceive threats to their ego where none exist, often exaggerating the impact of even legitimate criticism.

Just as our physical bodies need the protective layer of skin, so too do our egos require a degree of resilience.  While a completely impenetrable shell would be detrimental, preventing us from experiencing the world fully, a lack of any protective layer leaves us vulnerable.  Many people navigate life with an overly sensitive "ego skin," reacting strongly to even minor perceived offences. They need to develop emotional resilience – a thicker "skin" – to deflect petty slights and perceived threats.

This resilience is built through cultivating self-esteem and developing a more positive self-image.  A physically strong person is less threatened by minor dangers than a weaker individual.  Similarly, a strong ego, bolstered by healthy self-esteem, is less likely to be threatened by innocent remarks or actions.  By building self-esteem, individuals can develop the emotional fortitude needed to navigate social interactions with greater confidence and less vulnerability.

First Journey to Kabul, Afghanistan

NOTES FROM MY DIARY

30 April 2014 @ Melbourne

Today, I embarked on a journey to Dubai, the first step in obtaining my Afghan visa where I am to work as Senior Geologist for the USAID’s project called MIDAS (Mining Investment and Development for Afghan Sustainability).

My flight, Singapore Airlines, SQ408, from Melbourne to Dubai, was scheduled to depart at 6:20 PM.

The morning was a flurry of activity spent finalizing travel preparations. Telly kindly brought Ampy to work while I finalized my packing. After sending a few emails and relocating the Apple MAC computer from the study to the studio, Telly and Ampy returned to drive me to Tullamarine Airport. Thankfully, I had completed the online check-in the previous evening, streamlining the airline departure process.

Everything went smoothly at the airport; check-in was hassle-free, and I boarded the plane, securing my seat in 57D. Unfortunately, the flight was far from peaceful. A family – a mother, a boisterous four-year-old daughter, a crying two-year-old son, and a grandmother – was seated nearby. The constant cries of the young child were particularly disruptive, and the situation was further compounded by the child's parents' request to use the empty seats beside me. Despite the inconvenience, I couldn’t refuse. Unfortunately, the disruptions continued throughout the night, including the unpleasant odour of multiple diaper incidents.

Despite the noise, I managed to enjoy the in-flight meals and passed the time by watching "I, Frankenstein" and "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit." However, the pilot's announcement of a 7-hour and 20-minute flight, longer than anticipated, cast a shadow over the smooth journey. This unexpected delay meant I would miss my connecting flight in Singapore. As scenarios raced through my mind, I resolved to build in at least two hours of layover time for future connecting flights to account for potential delays. For now, there was nothing to do but relax and hope for some sleep.

 

1 May 2014 @ Singapore – Layover

As expected, plane was delayed. The flight arrived in Singapore at 12:25 AM, and I exited the terminal around 12:35 AM. Panic set in when I realized my connecting flight's boarding time was at 12:10 AM! I braced myself for the inevitable chaos and headed to the information counter.

Anticipating potential travel chaos, to my astonishment, the agent informed me the gate was still open for my flight. Confused, as I hadn't seen SQ498 on the monitor, she directed me to Terminal 2, Gate E11.

The race against time began. I sprinted through Terminal 3, hopped on the Skytrain, and continued running towards Terminal 2. Grabbing a trolley was a lifesaver. The frantic dash to the gates felt like a high-stakes reality show (The Amazing Race), and I was the sole contestant that my body was screaming for mercy.

Miraculously, I arrived at the gate just as the last passengers were clearing security. Exhausted but elated, I boarded the plane and claimed my aisle seat, 57H. Unfortunately, my seat neighbour had a strong body odour, making for an unpleasant start to the flight.

I attempted to distract myself with movies but found little enjoyment in "Invisible Woman" and couldn't muster the enthusiasm for other options. Sleep became my only refuge.

Dubai, UAE

My flight arrived in Dubai on time at 4:45 AM. Navigating the massive airport, I spent ten minutes clearing immigration and customs, both of which were surprisingly hassle-free compared to my usual experiences. The process was far less stringent than I expected, with no forms to fill up or questioning by an immigration officer. The relaxed atmosphere was a pleasant surprise. A good sign to have a pleasant day ahead.

I took a taxi to the Le Meridien Airport Hotel, paying AED60. I arrived at the hotel by 8:00AM, and unfortunately, no rooms were available until 10 AM. While waiting, I recharged my Vodafone phone for AED50, giving me an AUD75.73 credit. I contacted Bismilla the travel agent at Skylink Travel who is arranging my visa. I also sent an SMS to update Ampy and Telly.

Waiting isn’t my strong suit, and the hours until the room check-in felt interminable. The constant Nokia ringtones in the lobby were grating. A Sony Xperia ad with dual SIM card caught my eye, a very tempting prospect.

After what felt like an eternity, I finally got a room at 10 AM, only to be disturbed by two false fire alarms caused by someone smoking in the stairwell. To top it off, I discovered an error on my newly issued visa: my birthplace was listed as Australia instead of the Philippines.

All of these, I say it is an initiation to working in a conflict zone – Afghanistan. I wonder what the future holds. I wish myself luck.

2 May 2014 - Dubai to Kabul

Today I take my first trip from Dubai to Kabul.

More to follow....  

The High Stakes of Sample Size in Ore Classification - How One Sample Can Impact Mine Profitability

Traditionally, a single sample can determine the fate of a large volume of material in a mine. This decision, often involving tonnes of ore or waste, hinges on the accuracy of that one sample. This reliance on a limited data point presents a significant cost risk.

To illustrate, consider the impact of sample size on mine tonnage. During my time as Chief Geologist at the Longos Gold Mine, the open pit in Paracale, a single sample represented 7 tonnes of in-situ material. A misclassification could lead to incorrectly categorizing this material, resulting in lost revenue (if ore is classified as waste) or unnecessary processing costs (if waste is classified as ore).

Quantifying the Impact:

Let's consider the economic consequences of such a misclassification. Assuming the average gold content per tonne of ore is X grams (g) at a price of Y dollars per gram ($/g), the potential financial loss due to a misclassified 7-tonne batch would be:

• Loss from discarded ore: (X g/tonne * 7 tonnes) * ($Y/g) = Z dollars
• Additional processing cost for waste: (processing cost per tonne) * 7 tonnes = W dollars
• The total potential cost (Z + W) highlights the importance of using an appropriate sample size to minimize misclassification risks.

Moving Forward: A Data-Driven Approach

This example highlights the high stakes associated with limited sample size. Implementing statistically robust sampling techniques, such as collecting multiple samples, can significantly reduce the economic risk impact of misclassification and improve overall mine profitability.