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Global Urban Trek 2008
Heavy PartingJuly 27, 2008
In this final entry I would like to share two experiences that are at opposite ends of the spectrum.
The first experience was our visit to Samaritana along with our prayer walk and the second one is my farewell to my family. I apologize beforehand for the broken style of this last entry but it very much reflects the last week in Manila.
Samaritana is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) that works with women in prostitution in an effort to get them out of their lifestyle while providing skills that may be used towards a healthier form of providing for themselves and their families. In preparation for our night walk, the women at Samaritana took us on a seven-station reflection to help us get a clearer view of sex trafficking in the Philippines.
Before heading out to our respective sites, Kuya Jonathan shared his prayer for us: that we may be able to see Jesus in the streets. He reminded us that Jesus has been walking in the redlight district long before we arrive in Manila. I got the opportunity to see the district of Cubao which is a 24/7 area for prostitution.
It is here that I was able to sense the spiritual powers that are at work in the bondage of poverty and women. As we walked around the overpass, where a number of women were being pimped, I began to feel physical distress. My heart felt heavy and I was experiencing difficulty walking as if someone/something was holding tightly to my legs and pulling me down. Though I could blame the smog/pollution for my inability to breath, I knew it was the manifestation of spiritual warfare.
It was disturbing to see the women being pimped, but even worse was watching people cross the overpass as if nothing were going on. I guess for the people crossing the overpass, prostitution is a routine and is now part of the normalcy of Cubao. The prayer walk was a reminder of the times I have chosen to ignore the homeless/prostitutes and live in a false reality.
I didn't think saying goodbye to my family was going to be difficult, but boy was I wrong! When I asked Camille to help me gather the family in the living room, my voice began to crack. I tried to prevent it from happening again as I explained to her my intent for gathering the family. While I waited for the family, I tried to compose myself to prevent any breakdown; I took deep breaths and exhaled slowly.
The emotions were too strong to hold onto, and I began to tear up in front of them. My family was encouraging and helped me get through my whole farewell. I could only thank them for making my one-month in Pajo a wonderful experience and for opening their home and allowing me to be part of their family.
I hope that my stories have been a window for you and have been a glimpse to life in Manila. Thank your for joining me in this journey.
Maraming Salamat,
- Camilo
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