As this near-sighted Ibaloy writer has mentioned in past columns, living in Baguio can be likened to a double-bladed sword that is both a blessing and somewhat of a “curse” at the same time.
Obviously, it is a blessing primarily for its year-round temperate and even cool climate as compared to the warm and even hot temperatures prevailing in the rest of our beloved country.
Another blessing is the absence of any political dynasties unlike many areas of the country that has been plagued by one family rule since time immemorial.
As I have jokingly suggested before, these provinces, cities and municipalities should already be named after the family that have ruled over them for so long.
As to the not-so-good aspects of living in Baguio City, home of my Ibaloy ancestors, is congestion of people and traffic especially on weekends where residents would rather stay home.
Of course, the influx of tourists and visitors is very good for local business and the city’s economy as a whole. And that’s a very good thing, indeed. As for the rest of Baguio’s populace, however, the overcrowding, traffic that turns into “carmageddon” at times, increase in garbage, lack of parking space and more, can be such a downer that many no longer plan to go out with their loved ones on the weekends.
Several of my fellow workers at City Hall agree with me on this but are afraid to say so. That’s progress, I guess. Cheers!
Anyway, here’s hoping that our freedom of speech, as long as this does not violate the rights of others, is respected by our newly-elected and re-elected national and local leaders especially by those who are pretending to be humble but are actually holier-than-thou and believe that they are the only ones who are good, honest, and moral. Just saying.
Here’s ‘The Red Wheelbarrow” by William Carlos Williams: “So much depends/ upon/ a red wheel/ barrow/ glazed with rain/ water/ beside the white/ chickens.”
Let’s end with a prayer: “Dear Lord, Help me remember what a difference it makes when I make time with You a priority in my morning. Awaken me in body and spirit each day with a desire to meet with You and to hear You speak words of affirmation, assurance, and wisdom over my heart as I prepare to go into my day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
