It's summer here in the Philippines and I cannot wait to show you some of the photos I took during my last trip. It was altogether fun and exhausting. Exhausting because I was part of the core group who planned the whole thing. FUN because, once again, I did it with some of the amazing people I know. But there was one thing I never expected. I learned something which was life-altering.
It started with a breathtaking jump at the underground cave. It was fun at first. I didn't jump though. Not that I was scared or didn't want to try it. It was a girl thing. Almost everybody dove into the cold and clear water except for one. She was too scared that she was shaking on the edge of the cliff while looking down to the ones who jumped ahead of her. Hours passed and she left us on the edge of our seats. She was obviously in need of support from us, from the people waiting in line, especially me who was waiting to capture that final jump. I tried to be patient and comforting but the summer heat got the best of me. I impatiently screamed at her to jump.
After a few minutes, she did it. It was an amazing feat for someone who has acrophobia. I left the cave, together with another friend and complained about how long I had to stay just to take photos of them. We left the island as if nothing happened. We rode the boat and I sat beside her. When we reached the next island, I asked her if she was mad. She said, "Ganun ka, ganito ako. Kailangan lang nating intindihin yun."
I felt guilty for what I have done. It took me two days to finally get over it. I was too weak to personally apologize and so I wrote a letter for her instead.
I have learned that I am not yet the good friend she deserves and that I will make it up to her to gain back the trust she gave me. I allowed myself to be dominated by the extreme heat and impatience. It was very human yet ungrateful of me. I wished I could turn back time. I wished I remained calm.
Nevertheless, the day went smoothly for others and absolutely one of the best summer experiences I've ever had.
