I was touched by
the letter of Dr David H. Harwell to the Filipinos in the article published in
inquirer last week. For those who haven’t read it yet, here’s the link: http://opinion.inquirer.net/47047/love-letter-to-filipinos#close
It's incredibly kind of him to express his appreciation, or perhaps a deeper understanding, of us. After all, true appreciation often stems from genuine understanding. Understanding, however, is no easy feat. It requires time, effort, and a willingness to look beyond surface appearances. As Filipinos, we may have our flaws, but we often mask them with smiles, tireless work, and unwavering perseverance. This is especially true for overseas Filipino workers, who sacrifice so much to support their families back home. We toil tirelessly, not just for financial gain, but to provide our loved ones with a better life—a life filled with smiles, comfort, quality education, and brighter prospects. Indeed, family is at the heart of our culture. Our strong family ties and values are what truly define us as Filipinos.
Filipinos, wherever they may be, are known for their vibrant celebrations. Whether it's a birthday, a wedding, or any other special occasion, we gather to share joy, laughter, and delicious food. Unlike many other cultures, we often incorporate elaborate programs, heartfelt tributes, and lively karaoke sessions into our celebrations. While some may view our enthusiasm as excessive noise, it's important to understand the deeper meaning behind these gatherings. These events are opportunities to strengthen family bonds, reminisce with loved ones, and escape the stresses of daily life. For many Filipinos, especially overseas workers, these celebrations provide much-needed respite from the challenges of living and working abroad.
As Dr Harwell pointed out, many Americans are burdened by debt. Unfortunately, this is a growing concern for Filipinos as well. In our pursuit of a better life, we often sacrifice our well-being and financial stability. It's crucial to find a balance between work and personal life, and to prioritize our mental and emotional health. By cherishing our relationships, embracing our cultural traditions, and practicing gratitude, we can find joy and fulfilment, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Thank you, Dr Harwell, for your thoughtful letter. Your time with us allowed you to see beyond the surface and gain a deeper understanding of our culture. We appreciate your insightful perspective. We hope that your letter will be widely read by people of all nationalities, fostering greater understanding and appreciation. Perhaps then, they too will see us through your eyes.
Thanks again.
Thanks for the sincere admiration of our people and our culture that you have publicly expressed in your "Love Letter to Filipinos"...Mr. David H. Harwell, the profound Overseas American Worker. Filipinos will always seek for greener pastures. The standard of living in the Philippines is way far behind the high standard of living in the USA. The chance and opportunity of getting a job in the US or elsewhere in a foreign country is far better than your chance here plus the pay equivalence overseas is way higher compared to one's pay here. That's the main reason why a lot of Filipinos seek to migrate. Is that considered being unpatriotic - not being nationalistic? Definitely not. Patriotism knows no geographical boundaries. Here's a true fact...a nurse in the US earns a lot more annually than a doctor makes here in the Philippines. Just think of other lucrative professional jobs? True, there are many and wide varieties of unheard inequalities, discrimination, and maltreatment here and there but far and beyond, they are still better of in achieving their lifetime dreams and goals...thus swallow their pride or look the other way - knowing it won't be forever. I can speak for myself, been there, done that...like they say. They are better workers than others for the fact that they have their own built-in inner incentive...they don't want to go back and earn less than $10.00 a day...not an hour (that is... if they have a good paying job here). So they do perform to the max! Filipinos in general are good hard workers. If you treat them right, they will perform more than what you pay them. You screw them...watch what happens. Filipinos are family oriented, no doubt 110% They care about the whole clan...the extended family and if possible live in a compound to help each other out. If anytime someone ends up in an Emergency Room, consider that there will be a surprise family reunion in the waiting room. If someone dies in the family, it takes three days and two nights...24 hours a day - to keep the entire family bonding together and mourning their loved one. That is how family oriented we are! If their parents get old and frail, sometimes their siblings fight over where and who is going to take care of them. That's Filipino culture and proud of it. Thanks for the kind compliments! Mabuhay ang Pinoy and God Bless the USA!
ReplyDeleteThanks Don.. We have the same point of view.. Mabuhay ang Pilipino!
DeleteThank you Don... and thanks to Dr.David Harwell... I've worked in different countries ( 3 different ones) and now I'm here in US... so far, as I was treated good by the people of other countries (whom I interacted with)- I am treated far better by the Americans... Yes, I am always proud to be a Filipino, MABUHAY po tayong lahat! God bless USA for being a real friend!
DeleteTotoo po lahat ng sinabi nyo. And we are happy making our loved ones happy. Bringing them joy is enough joy and strength for us.
ReplyDelete