Joy and Comfort in My Personal Sanctuary: Baguio City

Beauty and comfort in places exist. I believe in people and their destiny. In their fate and stand in stones, water, and earth. Even if they have only gone there once in their lives, everyone has places that are significant to them. Moreover, there are particular places where we feel most authentic and alive that we consider as a place of inspiration.

When I was in High school, the knoll on a hill near our grandfather's house was the safest and most giving location I knew. I remember so clearly how it hurts to think about my father's condition when he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis when he came back to the Philippines. I vividly recall the sting in my heart seeing my mother struggling with where to get finances to cover his daily hospital needs. I remember going back to that place to bury my sorrow and shattered heart. My affinity for the place was my savior in those days. Also, I would firmly close my eyes until I could conjure up an image that we could surpass the trials and tribulations and realize that I needed a place to comfort me.

I realized that imagining this peaceful haven, where I experience a sense of completion and wholeness, would lessen the inevitable pain and sorrow I felt during those times. I had no idea back then that we could surpass that trial we encountered. However, I am fully aware that my place of inspiration and my ability to respect that connection were wonderful gifts I discovered at that age and are still a valued resource in my life. I'm fond of the city where I was born and raised. Despite my travels, I have never been happier to see the Baguio Pine trees. For all that it is- rich in culture, generally progressive, amiable, and authentic, as well as that it could be more populated, starting to get unclean, and overly indulgent- I adore Baguio. Sadly, I detest its imposters; I wouldn't say I like the direction it's taking now.

I cherish the past, present, and future. Others are concerned about Baguio's future like me, because we consider it a sacred place. After all, it helps us live in harmony with life daily. In addition, because of our love in our sanctuary, we want to be in a place where our minds are clear and present in life and the world around us. We hope to physically and ritually restore our abused surroundings so that we can contribute to the development of the place we treasure. Another is that it serves as a way to help us concentrate on securing and anchoring the flow of energy and spirit into our tangible surroundings.