the last leg of the journey...

Hello friends,

Sorry that it's been a while since I've posted, things have been so busy! I did indeed leave Camiguin Wednesday, spent one day in Cagayan de Oro before flying to Manila. I felt completely emotionally overwhelmed as I rode the ferry for the last time (at least for now). I looked on at Camiguin, and then at the waves in the water left by the ferry, which got smaller and smaller until they vanished a few hundred meters off. Sure, I think that I made some waves in Camiguin. But I am also pretty sure that they will vanish fairly soon. I have taught some English, but for less than 2 months.. I think that the most lasting difference that this trip has made will be on me. I have learned to be able to communicate my most basic thoughts in sign language. I have learned a handful of Visayan words, I have made some friends which I hope will last for a long time.

But more importantly, I have expanded my horizons. I was very uncomfortable before going on this journey, very scared, particularly for my safety. (The Philippines has a terrible reputation. Just go here to see what I mean.) I have seen a completely different way of living, one that I hope will stay with me as I move forward. I have discovered ways of thinking about the world like I have never thought about it before. This way is a much more simple way, it is just about living life, and not worrying so much if I am living it "well" or not: do I have nice things, a nice job, enough friends... Sure, it is human nature to always want more, and indeed in the Philippines, just like everywhere else, people strive for a better life. But I believe that one thing that people do in the Philippines is live their life, no matter what, instead of complaining about it and suffering.

After the Philippines, I visited Singapore for one week. There was an incredible contrast between the two countries. Singapore is a very wealthy country, and (at least from my impression) its materialistic attitude permeates everywhere. Everywhere there are expensive things to be bought. People drive around in super-nice cars, are always dressed their best, and everyone there is in amazing shape. As I stayed in Singapore for one week I could feel the less-materialistic nature that I had acquired in the Philippines leaving me. Once again, I wanted that sexy phone, or that expensive car, just a little bit... And it is a shame, because I think that the less-materialistic life is potentially, in some ways, a happier one.

This will be the last entry in my blog. I hope that you have enjoyed reading about my various experiences in Camiguin and elsewhere.

Thanks,
Eugene