In this foreign place where I now
reside, I don’t think I had an extreme culture shock that anybody else may have
experienced, or may think that I may experience. Maybe because Dubai is an open
city and Satwa (my current home) seemed like “mini Pinas” where almost every person
you meet is a Filipino. Although there are a few things that had me gawk, for instance,
the abaya-dressed women while taking a swim at the beach and the way most
men look at women (like they could just tear off your clothes by simply staring
at you). But we get used to it. Although there’s one daily occurrence - especially
during summer! Oh gosh! – which I will never adapt to: the olfactory experience
in a public transport. Shesh!
Aside from that ‘olfactory experience’
in a public transport, on a normal day at the train station, I get my usual
dose of high blood pressure. This is no joke, and it’s got nothing to do with
the smell or any of the other five senses but more of people’s interaction with
one another, regardless of the nationality or gender. And it’s not nice. It’s
not nice to push or shout to another just so you could get onto the train first,
or to be frowned upon because you’re old or because you have to drag your kids.
In a world of challenged norms and character,
I wish we remain rooted to the positive side of our human nature. Not to push
but to give way. Not to shout but to teach. Not to grab but to share. Not to
glare but to be aware. Not to frown but to smile. Not to overpower but to build
strength. Not to take over but to lead.
There’s always a good way, the right
way, to make ends meet. To look into a brightly colored lens is to see the
world in a happy place. Let the good vibes roll; pass on what’s beautiful and
worthy. Pass on the ideas and teachings that value humanity to our kids. The
future habitants of our world learn by what they see, so let us practice what
we preach.
I end this with a quote I read
somewhere, but unable to remember and give credit to the writer: “Be kind,
for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” I do not wish to sound
like Mother Theresa, more so think that I live a very moral life. I just wish
the world would be a better place if we be more kind to one another.
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| Jumeirah Beach Residences, Dubai; Aug 2013 |
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