Hope

As a development practitioner, I tend to see the world in a child's eyes -- positive, hopeful and dabbed with a certan mix of innocence and curiosity.

Earlier, I have watched a presentation of an NGO, which reminded me of what I would have done after graduation if I was not blessed with my beautiful Krissy. I thought of going on a mission; perhaps continuing my earlier experience with Regnum Christi's Youth for the Third Millennium missions or maybe joining Jesuit Volunteers or other similar organizations. I have always found inner peace in being immersed in communities -- like teaching children, listening to what older people have to share, getting all sweaty and dirty under the afternoon sun with happy children, eating meals with simple families, and enjoying scenes and the peace and quiet of 5:00 pm.

Until now, I wonder how life would have been like if I pursued my plans of teaching children in a far-flung bario and being a volunteer in Africa. Would I have lasted a year in my post?

I knew it was not a permanent thing. But then, it would be something humbling. The experience will always have to be something which I would like to remember as I move forward in life.

When Krissy came, I knew it was the end of my youth; a life well-lived and made the most out of. I have no regrets. That life may have ended along with my aspirations of being a volunteer on a mission but Krissy just started something new. It is the life that reconciles self-interest and the greater good. I have to secure Krissy and I a good life while at the same time, helping the society as a whole.

For the past year, I always wake up happy, feeling in love and ecstatic. Sickness and heartaches all seem to be just trivial. I allow myself to take time to embrace the pain, give myself a rest and then just go on without any frills.

Again, as a development practitioner, I am glad that instead of seeing the Philippines as a hopeless country, I am filled with hope. I am glad that while others end at feeling pity or shame, I seek ways and solutions.

This is how I have always been, though at times I forget. The world is beautiful for as long as we see the glass as half-full. If it becomes ugly, then we can always work on a makeover. I believe that everyone is capable of making a difference but it only takes a brave soul to take the initiative to act.

Happy Monday!