So again there are many amazing people I met in Tacloban, but I want to share about a specific person who works at The Lighthouse. And I just gotta say all The Lighthouse staff is great, and I love them. But I feel called to share about this one person at this time.
So Ate Caring makes all the lugaw for the feedings and helps in the kitchen. Ate translates to sister, but it’s also said here for respect. For example, most the kids called me Ate Grace. Caring is her fitting nickname. She does not speak much English.
In fact, that’s the first thing she ever told me. And it sounded like she just expected me to just leave, because of it. I think this is what she’s used to.
But for whatever reason I stayed. And I went back. We would have the same limited conversation all the time. I just ended up staying for longer and longer. I would peel garlic with her or help move the lugaw containers or just be with her while she worked or ate.
I ended up riding home with her when she would finish work sometimes. And I got to meet her husband and see her house, because I did that.
One day, I gave her a packet of TANG. And another day, I gave her a little chewy caramel candy. I just wanted to give her something.
And some mornings she would make me coffee and let me try some Filipino food. It was so wonderful. Those are some of my best memories. Just chillin and eating the same kind of food together.
Then on the morning I had to leave, we both exchanged notes we had our friend Beryl translate for us. (Thanks a million Beryl!)
We just hugged each other and wept. Then right before we left to go check our bus, she ran out of the house with the CamelBak I left inside. My hero.
Two things from her note really stuck out to me.
She said, “I thank you that even [though] I can’t understand you, you’re showing me your kindness,” and “Maybe you will come here to Tacloban here. Please find me. You’ve been so close to me like a sister.”
So this person I figured I wouldn’t be able to get very close to is now my sister and friend. So if ever you have someone in your life you think there’s no way you can know or understand or grow to love, I urge you to spend more time with them.
Seriously. Situation permitting, keep trying, because if you quit quick you may be missing out on an amazing relationship the likes of which you have never and/or an amazing time of growth.
We were made to have relationships with people and and live in community. And I am certain we have so much more power to break the barriers that hinder these things than we know.
As always thanks for reading and for your special support.
And hey you should totally share about an expectedly good relationship or experience you’ve had with someone.
Alrighty. I love you.
~grace(;
