Here I Am

Here I am back to the country where I was born. Most likely it will be here that I will die (or, hopefully, get raptured). I find it quite interesting that it was for econo-political reasons that triggered my departure first from the country of my birth and later from the country of where I am a citizen. The first was in 1984. Ninoy Aquino had just been assasinated and the Philippines was in turmoil. Uncertain of the future, I decided to exercise my privilege as a citizen of the United States of America (thanks to my G.I. Dad) and moved to California with my family. Now, it is 2010. My wife and I are now both "retired". The future once again looking uncertain with my meager pension already not enough to sustain us and facing a severe economic recession, returning to the Philippines would be the logical solution.

Here I am trying to shake off jet lag. Spending more than 12 hours in the cramped middle seats of a 747 was an experience Cynthia and I would rather forget if only our aching bodies would allow us.

Here I am just out from a cold shower and already perspiring all over.

Here I am enjoying lunch with Cynthia and two of her four children (Jenn and Patrick) and a grandson (Nathan) at a place called Banapple. I had a fried pork chop covered with mushroom sauce, with rice and veggies and the best iced lemon tea ever...all for about $4.

Here I am still unable to sleep at 11 pm because my body believes it is still 8 am (Los Angeles time). To while away the time, I thought about what happened in the past couple of weeks - the hectic packing and getting rid of all the remaining stuff. The touching moments when friends took Cynthia and myself out to lunch or dinner. Friends, some of whom I haven't seen in years. Friends who would drive for more than an hour just to wish us well personally. Such an outpouring of love and kindness and friendship I would treasure forever in my heart.

Here I am unable to stem the flow of tears as I remember my two children, Michelle and Kurt, both of whom I had to leave behind. I hope they know how much I love them. Of course, I miss terribly my four really cute grandkids, Megan, Amanda, Ryan and Nicholas and their wonderful Dad, Randy.

Here I am looking forward to meeting my two sons here in the Philippines: Karl, his lovely wife, Myn, and their adorable daughter, Raven. And Eumir and his charming girlfriend, Lain.

Here I am planning with my wife a new start in life. There are still so many things to do yet I know everything will be alright.

Here I am thanking God for His love, His provision and His guidance.

Life begins again.