Filipino hospitality

This is when I interviewed a successful farmer-cooperator in Maguindanao. Their house is 1.5kms from the main road. I had a hard time going there. When we arrived, the family prepared lunch for us. Fish, chicken--all from their backyard! I was so happy then. They were so hospitable. Yes, it was a long walk but it was also a big revelation to me-- pure heart, kind people still exist even in this quite cruel world.

In Mindanao and miles away

Yes, I have been here for almost a month already and it's only now that I have realized that I am miles away from my familiar connections. I am not sad, just sort of reflecting this time. I think that distance, no matter where you are will not change anything in you. Ralph waldo emerson is right, traveling is a fool's paradise. No matter where you go, you carry your own giant. Nothing will change. You are who you are-- wherever you are