Sarah Estanislao, high school student, St. John de Brito School – English Section
Everyone has a place that holds a special meaning to them, a place where they experience a sense of security and that they will never forget. For me, my special place is where I can truly be myself and experience both happiness and sadness without any restrictions. Unlike most people whose special place is just a stone’s throw away, mine requires a lengthy journey of two flights and a long drive to reach. It is within the walls of my home in the Philippines, where the peaceful surroundings contribute to my overall well-being and where I feel both physically and mentally healthier. It is also where my beloved relatives reside, whom I dearly miss.
First of all, the Philippines is one of the most peaceful countries in view of the fact that it doesn’t need to boast about its beauty because it speaks for itself. Every morning that I wake up there, it’s almost as if peace is running after me. The peaceful sunrise that’s perfectly paired with warm coffee and a captivating book along with birds singing their melodies is what I always look forward to. Somehow the war in my mind quiets down and peace prevails when I’m home, and that is why I feel at peace in my special place.
Secondly, I’m somehow physically and mentally healthier in my special place because the sun sets earlier there, which makes me sleep earlier than I usually do. And since the Philippines is rich in agriculture, I can say that the food I consume there is a lot healthier than the processed food that I eat here. Those meals are not only tasty but also very nutritious! My home is also situated in the province so the air is very fresh and I can breathe easier. The living conditions are the reason why I’m healthier there.
Lastly, my family and relatives are in my special place. Born and raised in Macau, I seldom get to see them due to certain circumstances. I only see them during vacations and as my family is my home, it makes me homesick when I’m away from them. Before the COVID-19 pandemic happened, we’d always spent Christmas in my special place and I’d always feel so complete, loved and contented. For me, being with my family in our home is already a special place.
In a nutshell, my home in the Philippines is my special place where I can be myself and be surrounded by peace, good health and love. I’ve had great memories there and I’m looking forward to making more memories with my loved ones. If you haven’t discovered your own special place, there is no need to look for it. Often, it is the sanctuary that finds you, rather than the other way around.
Photo courtesy by Unsplash
