My Last Visit

(Reposted.  Originally posted on Thursday, February 21, 2013.)

I am very proud of my company's building situated in old manila. 

It is nondescript but full of character. 

I remembered my first visit.  I was in awe of the heritage items which were taken for granted. 

Its been over a year since that first visit, but I still feel the same pride and at the same time humbled.

Outside, I was confronted with realities.  People who made their choice to work and live in the streets of Manila.

Life is tough but everyone seem to find simple joys and smile.  With every trip, I appreciated my blessings.

This is my last visit.  We are moving.

Sunrise at the Airport

(Reposted.  Originally posted on Thursday, September 15,  2011.)

I can only have 3 hours of sleep so I had three accommodation options --- 1. hotel and risk not waking up and miss my flight, 2. stay up in a coffee shop or 3. airport bench. I chose the latter.

With two hours of sleep and earned a middle-east OFW acquintance, I learned a few life lessons.

Beggars cant be choosers.

If one has nothing to lose and a lot of obligations, they take more risks. They become more open to learnings. With each learning, they improve their life.

Patience is a virtue.

With only two hours of sleep and several unanswered calls, I became more impatient. I was tired and sleepy. I didnt want to wait. But saving a life took precedence over me. I fully understand this.

Walking across the tarmac of Iloilo International Airport at 5:30am, I looked back at the airport control tower.

I was struck in awe with the beauty of sunrise. It was a shadow and glow of contrasts.

Another reminder that life is not black or white but several shades of gray with bursts of gold.

Living Life in a Suitcase

(Reposted.  Originally posted on Sunday, September 11, 2011)

I grew up having a 5-year plan, a 10-year plan, short-term plan, long-term plan - I love to plan!

However barely 50% of my plans came to reality which is ironic since I worked in a result-oriented industry.

Things dont always work out the way we want them to be because HE has a greater plan.

The solutions? Acceptance and simplify. So here I am now - living life in a suitcase.