In Vigan

Two realizations:

1. My preoccupation with love (or subtle variations of it) has made me lose focus over what is important: my work.

2. What I really want to do is write and teach. I have not been doing the former, and to do the latter, I need to finish my postgraduate degree.

Well, three.

3. So I must write the dissertation.

Hence, an oath (I swear upon the 80+ pounds I have lost over the past three years): I will stop dating until I finish my dissertation.

Until I finish my dissertation (complete one course with Sir Butch Dalisay, write 20-30 new stories and 10 long essays, write the ars poetica essay [of which will necessitate research and interviews, 20-30 pages at least] that shall serve as the introduction to my thesis, take the language exam and eventually, next semester, complete my penalty course), I will avoid circumstances or situations that may put me in close proximity to men whom I find attractive, and who, in turn, will find me attractive. If, despite my best efforts of doing so, I am nevertheless approached by attractive men who will ask me out on dates, I will tell them that I have to focus on my career right now ("but if you're willing to wait," I'll say, "ask me again later this year").

In the meantime, I will schedule my three-hour exercise routine in the a.m., swim till noon, then come home in the afternoons to write, write, write.