A Crappy Leather Wallet

My impression of Philippine culture is not always kind as ways here often conflict with my own cultural upbringing which taught politeness and well-organized achievement. We were taught the Golden Rule, to do unto others as we would have others do unto us. There is consideration and compassion in that rule. As Boy Scouts we were taught to do a good deed each day. I flunked out of that organization, for we were supposed to master crafts and hike the hills and do various projects, but I only learned to shoot a .22 rifle and make a crappy leather wallet.

Nevertheless, the "good deed" and thoughtfulness rule was infused in our every act by parents and teachers and scout leaders and little league managers. Respect your elders, obey authority, get good grades, achieve, think ahead ("be prepared", as the Scouts would say), compete fairly in sports, honor your country. These were the values we were taught. Churches taught similar lessons but I flunked Church, too, my illusions shattered by seeing the good parson across the street lighting up his cigarette once the faithful had departed. I also found the bible stories hard to believe. At a young age, I did not grasp the concept of allegory or the fluidity of interpretation where truth was bent to fit the doctrine.

Faith forms its own fake reality, as Church folk believe in what they imagine, or what they are told to imagine by the cloaked minister. It still seems a tad lunatic to me, although I confess to being quite able to slip into a spiritual moment at a good sermon that teaches the wonders of our world or the strength we must exhibit to do right when wrong would be so much easier.

What's my point? My point is that the Philippines would be a healthier place if ego-bound behaviors were tempered a little in favor of compassion and giving. The nation would be less stressed, politically, and might even gin up a diplomat of the first order instead of a pack of crusty, self-serving oligarchs. The land would be cleaner and there would be fewer dogs out killing motorcyclists on the National Highway. Ferries would sink less often and bribes would fade in favor of the honor of doing good for others. Pro-action would replace reaction and the excitement of ambition would replace the drudge of daily subsistence.

Achievement. Make it a part of the culture. Dancing and kareoke and star-struck, breathless idol worship are not achievements. Having white skin is not an achievement.

Giving is an achievement. Getting things done well is an achievement.

I'm for a more productive, kinder, and more thoughtful Philippines.