So, to make the long story short, I spent my rest day, travelling, trekking and camping on my own. I was upset because the Driver going to Opon mocked me of not giving the change to the other passenger. I honestly did not noticed I actually took two change for twenty. Eight each! Where did my braincells go?
The driver couldn’t stop bullying me and he kept on saying stories about the other passenger who also did not give the change to the other passenger; even after I have already given the change to the lady seated next to me. I was wondering if I really took it and put eight on my wallet twice? I only noticed once that the driver gave change. So, for the sake of peace, I moved out of his cab soon as it’s “red lights” turn.
I counted my change at the vehicle, minus the amount I added to pay again to the next cab’s driver; it’s an exact match of the change I received from the bus. So, yes the driver was right. Luckily, I did not panicked because it was my mistake in the first place even if I didn’t do it on purpose.
Prior to that, something also happened same situation as that; omg, that felt weird, because it was also my mistake but there’s someone else who did it, and the thought of it being talked about really pissed me off. Lesson learned, “there’s someone else, it’s not all about me.”
So you’re not alone, there are others too. Soon as I moved, to the next cab, I feel at peace; then after that, I went ahead to buy stuffs for my camping trip, slept and then woke up excited. Since then, I only see nice people. My driver going to balamban really cares for me. He’s so concerned that I already passed the drop-off point. But I trusted myself and insisted we’re not yet there; so I was right. I’m glad he’s concerned.
People were respectful, and it’s amazing how my seatmate also cares for me; he said, “You’re here, Ma’am.” They really thought I was so innocent and it’s my first time in the place. They’re concerned about me and it makes me feel loved. I knew everything’s going to be alright.
Soon as I stepped out of the van, I was welcomed with a smile, asking “going to manunggal, ma’am?” I said, “Yes, but I’d prefer to go on foot.” He understood, I was relieved. Everyone going up with their motorcycle asked me to take a free-ride but I gently turned them down, because I want to enjoy the experience.
Luckily, I met a few dog friends. I never ask them to give me company, but they did it anyway.
I only complimented the dog’s owners house and the dog ended up following me around and he even recruited the other white dog; such a bliss; although, they ended up being beaten by those other dogs.
I saw group of men working on my way up, and they’re all cool. They never hesitated to entertain me. Some were just observing me, but mostly, they’re all kind to me. I sensed fear when I was almost there, but I didn’t gave up, I kept pushing myself forward.
Soon as I arrived, I was entertained by the gentlemen and they’re so kind to me. I immediately initiated connection and I feel so at home. Setting up tent and hammock really felt so good.
Life was simple and it helped me remember how simple my life was as a child. How I wish I could bring back time, where my only worries was making my father get angry of me. I liked riding at his back even when working and it’s really annoying but you know he has no choice, he can’t spank me.
So I slept overnight but got distracted by the singing PH Army’s who have visited the place that night. But I wasn’t afraid at all, wondering around the Forrest in my own. Although there were other group of families camping near the viewing deck. I chose to hide somewhere I can enjoy my personal space.
It was very lovely, listening to the crickets, birds and the wind blowing, the trees swaying; it was like heaven. I am glad to have that courage to follow my heart’s longest desire, to camp on my own, to volunteer on my own, to find new people and get along with new connections.
I visited the viewing deck three times already, and this time I saw how beautiful it is and always will be. Seeing myself where I started walking, up there standing was magnificent.
That was a beautiful day indeed. On my way down to the store, I saw marine in uniform, one greeted me, “Good morning, po.” I smiled and replied, “Morning.” I hope someone ask my phone number but nobody did, “ouch!”
I enjoyed dancing with their music anyway while drinking a cup of coffee and a bread.
I have not danced like that before; it felt so funny; I’m really having fun like a child feeling excited about something good that’s about to happen. “aaaahhhhhh”. I realized the men will stay to plant trees. If only I have no work waiting, I would have stayed.
But no no no, time to go! I asked for help to get me a motorcycle that will bring me down to the dropped-off point. The guy happened to be the guy who gave us a tour to the rock formation last April, where I was teased for calling it, “Climbing Rocks.” That sounds so relaxing, interesting and safe.
My colleague did not remember the dog with us, but I did. It’s so nice to remember good times and seeing where I came from to where I am right now. From being a scared little brat, to a strong, bold and daring floating lady. “Omg. I sound awesome!”
On my way back, I saw the happy smiling faces of those Army’s walking up towards the peak of Mt. manunggal. They’re not looking tired, they’re looking happy and really having fun. I saw myself in them, walking and simply having fun; refusing to allow anything that will make me give up.
I had so much thoughts, and one important lesson I’d like to share is, “Fear is just in your brain, do not allow it to dictate your next move, because it will only attract the worst.” It’s just you making up reasons to keep you stuck, because you just don’t want to accept change, because you feel like you can’t do it; and if you won’t then you’d be put to shame. That’s how smart you are, so choose the right decision; you can do magic, and you’ll always win. So win big.
I returned home, surprising my mom! I told her I went to balamban to camp, let me know once you’re done sleeping with the pigs so I can bring you far. I also went far up to the balamban terminal where I’m supposed to meet my old friend from college, but she’s for sure already at work, I just didn’t bother her.
While waiting for the bus before I decided to continue to balamban terminal; I had a little realization; that my parents leaving me and bro in the past was very upsetting, but looking back now that we’re adults, felt liberating. I discovered a technique to heal my child-self by looking at the situation in an adults perspective.
Climbing, Rocks! 