Day 2 of our teambuilding. Photo: Steven
As I embarked on my first visit to the Philippines, I found myself filled with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. I was scheduled to co-facilitate a Regional Training for Peace and Justice from July 7 to 14, 2023, alongside my esteemed colleagues Kins, Cyril, Elirie, Raissa, and Frence from the Philippines, and Wiwit from Indonesia. Although we had connected online over the past eight months during coaching meetings and collaborated on the Power of Goodness events, the prospect of immersing myself in a different country’s culture was both overwhelming and intriguing. Questions swirled in my mind: What are the local customs and traditions? How should I conduct myself to show respect? What if I unintentionally commit a cultural faux pas? With so much to consider, I felt a sense of trepidation.
However, as soon as I arrived and gathered with my fellow facilitators for dinner, I experienced a remarkable sense of acceptance and belonging. The warmth and hospitality extended to me made me feel like a cherished family member, as we shared stories and laughter. During our conversation, I couldn’t help but notice the striking similarities between our languages and cultures. Around the dinner table, we joyously exchanged words from Cebuano, Tagalog, Javanese, Indonesian, and Hiligaynon. This delightful discovery left me in awe, igniting a deep curiosity about the profound cultural connections that have bound us for so long. To ensure I wouldn’t forget these precious moments, I diligently noted down the intriguing words and aspects in my journal.
As I ventured out into the city of Tagaytay, I became increasingly aware of the numerous parallels that made me feel right at home, rather than in a foreign land. The bustling markets, vibrant streets, familiar retail stores, and even the food we enjoyed—all resonated deeply with my own experiences. It dawned on me that my sense of belonging stemmed from the power of visiting and reconnecting. I recalled the concept of Silaturahim, a cherished cultural practice in Indonesia. Silaturahim entails visiting others without any ulterior motives, simply to nurture relationships and express care and love for those we meet. It is through this genuine sincerity that peace flourishes. Often, time and distance erode connections, leading to misconceptions, anxiety, and assumptions about the people in our lives—whether warranted or not. However, when we embark on visits, we are graciously welcomed into another person’s intimate physical space. The host feels honored, while the visitor feels embraced. This is how peace is fostered through reconnection.
This profound experience allowed me to witness the power of Silaturahim firsthand. From the moment I arrived, I knew my friends had thoughtfully considered my dietary requirements and made sure I had access to halal food. During our shared meals, I noticed the absence of pork on the table, a testament to their consideration and kindness. This gesture deeply moved me, underscoring the incredible thoughtfulness of my newfound friends. Additionally, I recognized that our communal dinners served as a means of connection. Gathering around the table, we engaged in heartfelt conversations, exchanged cultural insights, and bonded over our shared life stories. Through these shared experiences, I gained an understanding of their customs and practices, allowing me to offer assistance where needed and receive support in return. By visiting one another, we fostered mutual understanding and enhanced our ability to collaborate effectively.
As I reflect upon my first week in the Philippines, I am filled with gratitude for the warm reception and acceptance I have experienced. I am eagerly looking forward to our collaborative efforts during the upcoming workshop. Together, we will embrace the power of Silaturahim and work towards peace, celebrating the cultural connections that unite us.
Reviewing Picture sharing photos. Photo: Frence