We Still Care

I was on facebook mobile waiting for my yoga session to begin the day Ondoy hit the Philippines. The speed of the feed updates was abnormal turned plain scary - statuses and tweets for help and prayers. Not to be dramatic but wow, getting wind of bad things happening to where you grew up on your smart phone? Helpless. I offer each and every yoga practice to someone, something. It keeps me focused and helps me really get into the asanas (poses). So I just om'd and namaste'd for everyone's safety.

Home is where the heart is and I have inevitably become somewhat detached from Manila after living in the East Coast close to five years. I've started to forget street names, directions, restaurants, celebrity and political figures' names (not that they're important). This is probably true for those living overseas too . That doesn't mean we have stopped caring.

Last Saturday, two friends hosted a birthday party/mixer turned fundraiser in the City. The event raised close to $4000 which will be turned over to Ayala Foundation USA. Not too shabby. It was a night of fun, networking all for a worthy cause. This was pretty much mobilized by facebook. Most if not all of the attendees are from the NJ/NY metro. A good mix of people. Isn't it interesting how social media has changed our lives? Yes, it can be a tad narcissistic and impersonal but it can still be harnessed for many good things. I saw, from the feeds again, how relief efforts and volunteerism just exploded. Coolness. Proves though that there's just no relying on government help.

My friend May has compiled a list on how else to help. Go here. (Cheers May!!) Ketsana then Parma, more help will definitely be on its way. I think though that help should start at home or with people you personally know. Helpers, neighbors, company employees who are not as fortunate. Ayusin mo muna bakuran mo bago bakuran ng iba ba yung expression? I've been told that the mood's a bit somber but I have faith that Pinoys will definitely brush this off, not to forget, but to move on. This too shall pass. Don't we smile these things down anyhow?This was a freak happening but hopefully, lessons will be learned, future preparedness and lifestyle/go green changes happen. Please do take extra precaution on health, a little wary of the flood waters not receding as fast as they should. Breeding grown for disease!

Take care you guys back home. We are far, far away but yes we still care and have you all in our prayers!!!