I’m going back to the Philippines, to see my love once again... do you recall that song? As I am going back to Manila next week, I went to the Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur this afternoon to secure an Overseas Employment Certificate which I will be using when I come back early next month. While there, I was handed by Labour Attache JB Jimenez a copy of the Special Merdeka Edition of Kabayanihan Magazine and I would like to share with you some insights from an article written by a fellow Filipino, Mr. Jerome Chavez, which I thought you would find it inspiring.
Truly, Filipinos are considered one of the happiest people on earth. But while out of the country, they are prone to deep loneliness and emotional burden. What does it mean to be a Filipino and out of the country?
Filipinos are everywhere. “You see Pinoys in the malls, in restaurants, in shops, in the park, in theatres and the entertainment arena. Of course, there are also Filipinos invading offices and the corporate world. In the hospitals, there are Filipino doctors and nurses. And believe me, they are some of the most sought after. The Filipinos’ TLC (tender loving care, what else!) paves the way for a patient’s quick recovery. And visit schools and you will not be surprised to meet Filipino teachers there. With their facility of English and efficiency, no wonder Filipino teachers easily capture the recognition of the world.
Flexibility is one characteristic that describes a Filipino. I happened to travel to some Southeast Asean countries and I was not surprised to meet so many kababayans. One reason is that we are not particular as to the kind of work we do as long as it is honest. We put so much passion in everything we do. We extend hours working without complain, without expecting rewards not even recognition. A simple pat on the shoulder or a kind word is enough. Hard work and excellence are some qualities that mark a Filipino. Just look at a Pinoy at work and you know what I mean.
Filipinos are a happy bunch. Amidst conflicts, difficult situations and chaos, we can still afford a good laugh. Be with them and you will not have a dull moment. Every happy moment is a Pinoy moment. Filipinos can easily chase that moment and we know how to entertain ourselves. A simple joke or a funny antic can spur crazy laughter. When in group, they will just burst into songs and fabricated sounds. Give them a place to stand on, and it will become their stage.
Filipinos are unique. They smile when there is so much adversity they feel. They sing to express emotions. They dance to evoke sensation. They survive to show that life is beautiful.
Life may be hard on them but it is not sufficient reason to put them down. It is reason enough to strive and stand in harmony among unbroken dreams.”
According to Napoleon Hill, “Success in highest and noblest form calls for peace of mind and enjoyment and happiness, which comes only to the man who has found the work he likes best.”
