We know that time is relative, and everyone’s clock here in
the Philippines
says something different. It’s pretty much the easiest thing to get lice. Or
bed bugs. Or foot fungus. Etc. And it’s not a big deal when you do. Children
love to talk and visit with Americanos
and they will call you tito/tita (for aunt) or kuyya/atte (for big
brother/sister). Some may even call you “Joe,” (whether male or female) which
originated back from the war and GI Joes. Traffic is about as bad as New York
and LA combined. Make sure you blockout two hours for any travel within the
city. Jeepneys are the best way to get around. Kind of a combination between a
bus and a jeep. Just pass your money towards the driver and you will eventually
get change. Bring toilet paper with you everywhere; there isn’t any in the
restrooms. And don’t ask where the restrooms are, because they are called Comfort Rooms, or CRs. Christmas is the
best holiday of the year. They start celebrating in September and may even continue
wishing you a Merry Christmas through mid-January. If female, don’t worry when
someone calls you mom—they are really
saying maam, it just sounds like mom. Men, if you need to use the bathroom,
just find a wall. And when you’re standing around the street waiting for
something, make sure to pull your shirt up just above your stomach, making sure
your fat bulges over your pants.
I joke about the cultural differences, but overall the
people here are wonderful. They love Americans and they are so generous and
helpful. It has been a pleasure to be able to call this place home over the
course of the past six weeks. I have loved it and I am actually really sad to
be leaving. I really liked Thailand
and Cambodia,
but I was also ready and excited to move on. But tomorrow morning we leave the Philippines…
and I would stay longer if we could. I’d unpack my bag, no problem, and stay as
long as they let me. The K.I.M program here in Manila is absolutely amazing.
Everything about it is actually quite remarkable. Their presence in the
community, the relationships amongst the local American missionaries, the opportunity
to get involved in your passions and gifts that God has given you, the loving
and adorable children at the orphanage. Everything. This place just makes me
smile.
I can’t imagine saying goodbye tomorrow for good. For now,
it’s see you later.
