Filipina Since Birth

I've been trying to write this post for the past few weeks. I've been so utterly distracted, busy (that's usual), got stranded, and well had mini-birthday celebrations here and there, so that's why I haven't had the time to sit down and compose this post.

I have time and time again wrote about how proud I am to be a Filipino and have been very emphatic why I want to stay home. That's me being Pinoy, but it's a different story when you talk about being "Filipina".

I was talking with a colleague of mine and told him that there's an ongoing online campaign to change the "image of the Filipina". Why? Coz when you search for it all types of websites that brandish our image come up. I'm not even going to mention those anymore.

Now let me share with you what I think a Filipina is based on the feedback I've gotten from my friends in other countries.

1. Pinays are maalaga (Filipinas are good care-givers) - and I don't mean that as a "job". "Pinays are big trouble," my friend said, "I just cannot help it, I want to marry a Filipina because Pinays are the best." Yes, masarap magmahal ang Pinay and we stick it out through thick or thin.

2. Family first - there are a lot of successful Filipinas worldwide. Some known for their accomplishments and there are those who are making waves but haven't reached the news, but at the end of the day, Pinays know that family comes first.

3. We're funny - not funny-silly, but funny humorous. Well that's what my friends tell me. What more can I say? We're always happy.

4. Matiyaga and Resilient - we are not one to break down easily because we are supportive of each other. In the US (my friends tell me), neighbors don't come rushing about to help you when you are sick, but here you can easily get help from your neighbors. Haven't you noticed that psychiatrists aren't big here? Coz we all have our girl-friends.

5. Beautiful - my friends tell me that they want to stay in the Philippines forever because there are so many beautiful women here. The Filipina smile is known worldwide. I remember the flag carrier even used this as one of their advertising themes.

Filipina Since Birth. That's me and that's not going to change ever. I am happy where I am even though my life's been a roller coaster ride. I know I am meant to be where I am now and I think one important unique trait of Filipinas is the fact that we have faith in God and trust Him to know what is best for us. He is pillar behind our resilience, our humor, our beauty, courage and our huge heart.

The traits are wrote above are just a handful of beautiful things we can say about being a Filipina. What about you? What do you think are the best Filipina traits?

Thanks to Dhon Jason for the photo and Francis M Clothing Co. for the shirt (they've got more styles and also take orders for those in neighboring countries).