Much like the scene I shared with you last month, this image showcases the mountain range that I grew up seeing as a child. Baguio City is known as the 'Summer Capital'. It is located north of Manila, the capital of the Philippines and falls in the province of Benguet. The northern part of the Philippines is mostly known for its mountains and hills.
Now to the part where I don't sound like Wikipedia...
Now to the part where I don't sound like Wikipedia...
This image always reminds me of home. Over the years the lights on this mountain top have grown; in the daylight you can also see how these twinkling lights poorly showcase the tight squeeze of houses that flood this mountain range. I've loved seeing this mountain view fill-up with rooftops, but much like the Harbour Bridge gives me a 'wow' moment, this scenery gives me a more somber feeling.
Although the cost of living is not horrible in the Philippines, like most third world countries with solid tourism, it can be better. There's a part of me, whenever I'm standing on this balcony and looking at this view, that thinks, "What is 'better' here?" that is, what does 'doing better' for the people here look like? And this thought always makes me think about all the reason we immigrated in the first place.
Although I don't live here anymore, I always know that when I go back, a small part of it will always be home. When I was a teenager it was my Lola - my grandmother, now it seems to be the place itself. Regardless of how I dress or the odd accent that taints the Filipino language that comes out of my mouth, I will always look like a Filipino because I am a Filipino. I cannot and do not want to change that fact.
Food for thought.
Until next month,
sL xxx