My Childhood and Teenage Years in the Philippines

From MY Readings the Morning That Touched My Heart and Soul 

The above image evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of my childhood summers spent exploring hidden corners of the world, where every adventure felt like a journey into the unknown. 

The sunlight filtering through the leaves, the colorful houses, the quiet dirt road - it all transports me back to a time of carefree days and endless possibilities. I can almost hear the sound of cicadas chirping in the background, and the smell of freshly cut grass fills the air. 

It was a time of simple joys and cherished memories, a time when the world seemed full of magic and every corner held a hint of adventure. The image captures that feeling perfectly, reminding me to slow down, appreciate the beauty around me, and rediscover the wonder of childhood.

The above is the Childhood Memories I want to remember. However, this was short lived and aborted when on December 7, 1941, Japan bombed Pearl Harbor. The next day the Philippines was also bombed and the Japanese- American War in the Philippines has began.

The following is a repost of my award winning essay on my Childhood Experiences during this War, 1941-1945.

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2024/11/my-childhood-experiences-during.html

Meanwhile, my teenage years were spent in rural town of Barotac Viejo, Iloilo. The following description of what rural living by the Lazy Traveler, I could identify with. I am posting this description of rural life in the Philippines and associated photograph for your reading pleasure.

A path less traveled, a life more cherished. In the heart of the province, every step feels like home. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant hum of nature create a melody of peace. Here, mornings are kissed by golden sunlight, and afternoons are spent under the shade of mango trees. 

Life moves at its own rhythm, unhurried and full of quiet joy. The air carries the scent of fresh earth, and every corner holds the warmth of simple living. In the province, happiness isn’t measured by wealth but by the richness of each passing moment.

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2021/06/my-elementary-and-high-school-years.html

Meanwhile, did you Know That_

The Tasaday, a "Stone Age" tribe "discovered" in 1971, quickly became a subject of intense debate. While initially hailed as a group untouched by modern civilization for centuries, some later claimed their lifestyle was partially staged.

This controversy sparked questions about anthropological research and the ethics of portraying isolated cultures. The Tasaday mystery continues to fascinate and divide opinions within the field of Philippine anthropology.

Lastly, Did you Know that....

After decades as a U.S. colony, some American lawmakers considered making the Philippines a U.S. state instead of granting independence! But racial prejudice, economic concerns, and the challenges of governing a far-off archipelago prevented it from happening. Instead, the Philippines gained independence in 1946.

In 1935, Filipino leader Manuel Quezon even proposed U.S. statehood as an option, but many Americans rejected the idea, fearing an influx of Filipino migrants. Imagine a world where Filipinos had U.S. passports today!