San Diego, CA. If the Christmas Day duel between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics is any indication, 2009 could truly be the Year of Kobe as in Bryant of Hollywood. The Lakers looked and played far more superior than their east coast nemesis who appeared tired.

        The year 2009 could also be Kobe's as in the baka type or the bull. The Chinese calendar is based on superstition but in today's economy, the Chinese have been dominant so perhaps knowing the Year of the Ox forecast for 2009 will bring a glimmer of hope. Here it is:

        "The global economy will begin to recover from the financial meltdown. 2009 is a year of opportunities with the emergence of many new global empires following the collapse of big names like Lehman Brothers. Under the new administration of Barack Obama (self element earth person), the Wall Street stock market will recover faster than expected as Barack Obama enters his peak luck cycle. We will see world major economies put aside their differences to overcome the financial crisis. The full impact of the unison can be seen in the second half of 2009.

        The property market of United States will continue to recover as 2009 is the year of earth. Employment statistics will improve as United States' job market bounce back from the financial meltdown. This will in turn lead to an improvement of the world's stock market. However, many major corporations will also undergo restructuring or even a change in leadership."

        Okay, so it's not exactly market analysis worthy of Jim Rogers or Warren Buffett. But we'll take it.

        The bull symbol as in Merrill Lynch is a powerful reminder of the global economic meltdown that started here in our own backyard. So many painful lessons and it is not even over year. But the important thing is, we're still here and most of us still have our jobs, homes, cars, and other comforts in life - still lots to be thankful for. For the unfortunate who became part of the foreclosure statistics, reach out to others because you are not alone.

        Incidentally, we Christians always believe that the New Year always brings a renewal with the rebirth of Jesus. We always look at the coming year with optimism and lots of promise hence our New Year's resolutions. Looking at my previous resolutions, health always tops the list - you know eating healthy, exercising more and hopefully, lose weight. It is hard but it is always worth pursuing.

        With the economic pinch, perhaps it is a good time to think about cutting down on unnecessary expenses. But, what do we consider unnecessary? Is sosyalan unnecessary, perhaps? As my friend Jessie would say, "Depends." Do I need it? Is this something I can live without? Some expenses may appear unnecessary but to some people such could be a source of happiness - think of the movies.

        Third on the list is improving oneself - being more punctual, considerate, caring, and productive at home, work, and other things. In other words, being a better person.

        For the community, I also put together a list - not for me but for you the fifol. First on the list is to become a U.S. citizen if you already qualify. This is your adopted country and you pay taxes but you don't have any say in how the government is run. Many shy away from being one because they are "Filipinos and will always be Filipinos." I believe you really don't give that up by being a citizen of a different country. You give up your citizenship but not your "Filipinoness" - if there is such a word. Being Filipino is in the heart and mind - you will never lose that unless you intend to in the first place. You will still enjoy TFC, adobo, pancit, and still speak your native tongue.

        Having accomplished that part then next is to register as a voter. It is not a complicated process. All you have to do is fill out a form - a form that is much shorter and easier to understand than your tax returns. Once registered you can even apply for an absentee ballot - meaning you don't even have to go to the polling place to vote. The Registrar of Voters will mail you the ballot and you can cast your vote by mail. The important thing is that you vote.

        Finally, aspire to be a candidate if that is your calling. Running for an elective post is not an entitlement. Just because you are a Filipino does not mean that Filipinos will vote for you automatically. You have to earn the trust of the voters. There are many ways you can do that but it will not happen overnight. You have to pay your dues to the community - join political clubs, do volunteer work for a candidate - walk precincts, phone bank, campaign, etcetera. It is by immersing yourself to these political activities that you meet other volunteers, candidates, elected officials, and influential people. It is by doing these activities that they will see your potential - not just by announcing yourself as a candidate. Getting their endorsements is a process not an entitlement - you have to work for it and earn it - not because you are a Filipino but because you deserved it. Be smart, don't allow yourself to be used by public officials.

        Know yourself, discover your principles and find your moral compass - don't invent them. Be a leader, take responsibility for your actions and be accountable. When you run a campaign, take ownership and make decisions. If you lose, find out what happened - not to blame other people but on how you can improve your campaign next time. Blaming others for your failure is a sign of immaturity. In politics it is a rarity that one succeeds on the first try. So keep trying. There are really no magic numbers just lots and lots of preparation.

        If nothing else, just enjoy life. Life is short, treat it for what it is - a gift.

        Happy New Year!