Manila is big, let alone the entire country (Philippines) with more than 7,100 islands. Living in the metro has its merits. With larger labor markets, the percentage of landing a job suited to one’s skills is higher. People can pursue careers that are not offered in small towns or small cities.

As a small town girl, I needed change a few years ago. My daily routine, the people I socialize with and the place I was in became a little too comfortable. I was becoming mediocre. I feared that the fire I have in me will eventually extinguish if I continuously let myself drown to the comforts of my hometown. One day, I packed my bags and decided to move to the big city. I took the plunge. Knowing myself, I knew I could easily adapt to the pace of life in the metro. I embraced the change and immersed myself to my new home.

I have been residing in the metro for a few years now and while I took advantage of the opportunities it offered, it had not been the kind of home I prayed it would be, so time and time again, I go back to the place where I almost entirely lost myself-Ilocos Norte; where I was to drown but remained afloat because of the impassioned nurturing from family and friends over the years.

Whenever I’m in Ilocos Norte, a sense of peace and contentment awash my being. It is home and it will always be. So here’s a short clip of the wind turbines (mulino) and some words I’ve put together in Filipino from my previous trip to my hometown.