Easter/ family dinner

Yesterday Manila was the quietest yet. A few stores were open, and the cigarette vendors never seem to take a break. Today is back to normal. Jeepneys and cars are back on the streets, and stores and businesses are open again.

For Easter I went to Rodel's family dinner. I enjoyed a filipino feast which included Talapia, rice wrapped and steamed in banana leaves, noodles, mango salad, coconut water, and mango cake. I joined the extended family and we commemorated Rodel's parents, but mainly sat around and discussed culture and politics. It was a great time.

Rodel's sister talked about how the "Six degrees of separation" are actually two degrees here in the Philippines. Considering that my first week here I met friends and family of people in the Bay Area (by accident!) I think that tends to be true.

It's definitely too early to enumerate the ways that this trip has opened my mind. But I can say that I do understand more why Filipino Americans often extend their trips to the homeland. Time sort of stands still here. While things are busy in Manila itself, I would say that in general the people here are relaxed and really know how to enjoy life, eachother, and have a unique way of accepting whatever it sends their way.

People remain connected to their home provinces, and return often to join with extended family and nature. I have learned a lot about different ways of approaching life. I think New York will feel different when I return - I think I will be much different.

Anyway, that's all for now. I am sure I will have adventures to report.