I just finished speaking at a conference in a serene mountain setting not far from San Jose, California. It was hosted by a Filipino group.
We discussed money, family life, dreams, spirituality and frustrations. We ate together. We laughed a lot. If you know the Pinoy community, you understand that is guaranteed.
Because of our focus with Grace for Asia, of course, we talked much about home; Philippines. We now have a condo in Manila. Many of the attendees have been gone from the country for 10,20, or more years. But no matter how long they have been absent, it is still home.
As we visited during breaks we discovered common experiences, common friends and most of all, common needs and hurts.
In time, our conversation turned to exactly what can be done to "fix the Philippines!"
Answer seems obvious, but tragic. Nothing can be done until the government there stems the epidemic tide of corruption.
Why start a business if double-taxation will drain it dry?
Why send medical equipment and supplies in to assist those who cannot pay for medical treatment as long as custom officials extract 20, 30 or 40% for their own pockets?
Why educate young people if jobs are not given to the most deserving, but to the most connected?
Why send more OFW overseas who must send all their money home when those at home refuse to work and simply waste the funds on a lazy lifestyle?
Why vote if the votes won't be counted?
After 10 years of hearing the same statements and frustration I admit it is tempting to give up. But I return to a couple basic premises which should drive all efforts. Not just in the Philippines, but around the world.
1) Because we cannot help everyone does not mean we should help no one.
2) Teaching people to fish is superior to giving them a fish.
Grace for Asia will continue to do all we are able. Just sitting here in another airport (will be in 23 during the next 16 days) and feeling a bit wistful. Wish I knew how to do more. Feeling so strongly I would like to do more. Sharing the angst of those I have just been with.
We can do more. If we all work together. Let's not give up.
