Wednesday, April 11, 2012

17 days in paradise

17 days in a place I call home.

It was supposed to be a much deserved break, but I left for the Philippines with a heavy heart. Things happened at work, which made me felt that despite the fact that nothing is fair in this world, I deserve something better.

Things wasn't going smooth either for the children's workshops in the schools in the mountain areas. It took everybody by surprise when I had an emotional outburst one night. I have never cried so hard for the past 8 years in Bago City, and even if I had encountered problems, they would only hear occassional rantings from me. I guess it was an accummulation of all problems and the stress I was going through, that resulted in the outburst.

I never like sharing my problems with the whole world, but I am thankful that I have friends there who are always ready to lend me their ears. A hug, a pat on the shoulders, it's comforting.

After this experience, I'm giving second (or maybe more) thoughts on working with groups again.

I had 1 week to unwind from all the stress and problems, I gave enough quiet moments to myself, and spent time with friends. I went out to the sea, swam with the fish and corals, and watched the sunsets. We even spotted a blue dot stingray while snorkelling in Carbin Reef in Sagay. A few of the many reasons why I'm loving it there in the Philippines.

Thank you my friends, for the friendships. And thank you Philippines, for the beautiful moments. Yes, I'll still be back again.