Day 1: Opening Closed Doors

I packed and checked my things for the items I might miss bringing. I decided to just have 5 pairs of pants and shirts that would definitely be enough for a week. I wanted to start learning how to be less Obsessive Compulsive and ending up not using any of them at all.

I left around 11:00 AM and saw Jundey (a  friend of mine) at the bus terminal explaining to him that I will be leaving for a Volunteering Program. It was an hour journey to Butuan City. It cost P50.00  for the van fare and then P15.00 for the jeepney ride going to the airport.

The counter is already open when I arrived so I checked in and paid the terminal fee. Remembering my previous experience with a Youth Program that included homestay, I decided to buy a simple gift for my host family. It was a small refrigerator magnet with the word "Butuan City" painted on its surface. I also purchased a key chain for my British Counterpart.

I didn't take my lunch to save some money. I really don't have any earning for the past 4 months, I was just at home doing nothing. My mother gave me P2,000 allowance for trip that I am suppose to use just in case there will be an emergency.

Arriving Cebu City, I was told by my supervisor to ride a metered taxi to reach Perpetual Succour Hospital, Gorordo Avenue, Lahug. I needed to take a psychiatric examination because I shared a traumatic experience in the past which they think would be necessary for my own safety during the volunteering period. I was surprised at first; but later, it is even a great avenue for me to learn more about myself.

Having  thought it was more of a written test, I was caught up into an interview session. The psychiatrist is very accommodating, and after , I was strongly recommended by her. Later then, I was sent to ride a taxi to Betania Retreat House and stay there until the other Filipino ICS Volunteers arrives on Sunday, before 1:00 PM.

Alone in my room, i told my self that surely the next days will be full of challenges and it will surely bring me to another level in community and self development. I checked on my email and read about what happened during the previous cycle. And, I thought of what things I could possibly contribute to my team mates, to my host families and more especially to the deaf community.

As my mind wandered that night inside room 214, I was indeed so hopeful that everything will be fine knowing that I have genuine interest in knowing the Sign Language. And as I learn, I also will uncover what makes the culture unique. Soon,  I will descend into the deep sea of a new trenches  What must I do? It is to have the courage to open the door, take a brave step and have the will to continue whatever life may bring.