Day 2/21
Sleep quality last night was surprisingly the best that I have had in….months. I can’t remember the last time that I went to bed and woke up with my heart feeling full even when I had just emptied it the day before. Wow. Thank you!
While I am intent on not pursuing my original plans for the next weekend, I am looking forward to using it for recharging and exploring activities that I’ve not been able to do in the past 2 years. And I’m secretly excited for it. It’s true what they say about turning obstacles upside down and using them as learning opportunities.
Before I get carried away with plans for that weekend, a quick rundown of the things that I learned from my 3-year life chapter: I learned the land route to the Philippines’ western islands and braved the long journey alone for a total of 17 hours — one way. I accumulated substantial travel mileage last year, flying to and from a Visayan city that I never dreamt of visiting in my younger years. Sampled their delicious cuisine and enjoyed the rustic sights outside the city. Found Dumaguete quaint and refreshing (wouldn’t mind going again with my sons the next time). Traveled to Singapore with a group and learned to stretch my patience during the loooong layover because the group tour started and ended in Manila (when I could have flown direct from Cebu and cheaply, too). Took on the role of an informal travel assistant to my travel companions, some of whom were first-time international travelers. Discovered that most of my strength was still there despite my older age as I managed to push my own heavy luggage around the airport. Developed an awareness of the existence of female sex workers and their less obnoxious titles these days; Oldest “profession” that never gets old. Knew for sure that the former Philippine president was not exaggerating when he referred to that city in the west as drug-infested. Eye-opener: almost everyone who appeared decent consumed substances and claimed that they were not dependents. Learned, albeit gradually, how to manage emotions, create a facade, and grin and bear the difficult moments. Best of all, I thank my parents for laying the foundation of my moral compass. Without flinching, I chose to take the side of the righteous, even in the face of persecution by persons close to someone special. Marital infidelity is wrong and will remain wrong in my eyes, regardless of who commits it. Trying times but moments that remind me of how fortunate and blessed I am to have been born and raised by my parents. Throw in the many loving moments of that chapter and I am one very grateful woman. Thank you very much for the time, feelings, and effort. Love and light.