That little bottle on my shelf has a big story.
I purchased this piece in the Philippines several years ago, and every time I look at it, I'm transported back home.
It is Filipino miniature art - inside a clear glass bottle, a tiny world. Two Nipa Huts, with its woven walls and palm-thatched roof. Two small palm trees swaying beside it. And right out front, a Filipino couple working together, building or tending their house. The artist even put a little sign on the hut that says "Philippines."
If you have ever seen a nipa hut, you know what it represents. Simplicity. Bayanihan - neighbors helping neighbors. A house built by hand, with materials from the earth, meant to be shared.
It sits on my desk right in front of another treasure - a Plaque of Appreciation from the University Library of the University of the Philippines Visayas. It was given for my contribution to the Setup of the UPV Archives Section in the New UPV Library Building, in memory of my late son and wife. That plaque and this bottle sit together, and for me they belong together. One honors memory and learning. The other honors home and hard work.
What I love about bottled art like this is the patience it takes. Someone had to build that tiny hut, paint those tiny figures, place every piece of bamboo inside a bottle neck that is barely wider than a finger. It is the Filipino spirit in miniature - resourceful, detailed, joyful even in small things.
To my readers around the world who have never been to the Philippines, this is what I want you to see: we build our homes with our hands, but we build our lives with each other.
I keep it where I can see it every day. It reminds me that no matter how far we travel, a small piece of home can still fit in the palm of your hand.
Have you ever seen bottled art like this from your own travels? I would love to hear what little treasure keeps you connected to home.
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