TRAVEL | PHOTOGRAPHY | HOMELESS
What I Learned From a Homeless Man
I learned about resilience, the value of compassion, and the fragility of memory.
I set out for a walk to the Public Market in Davao, a lively place in the southern part of the Philippines. This market city was famous for being the hometown of the former President, Rodrigo Duterte. Little did I know that this simple morning stroll would lead to a heartwarming encounter that would stay with me.
As I walked towards the market, the city was still waking up from its slumber. Even the former President himself was likely fast asleep in the comfort of his home. However, as I made my way back from the market, I noticed a homeless man who had just woken up from his makeshift bed.
Touched by compassion, I approached him and greeted him cheerfully, saying, “Good morning, Uncle. How are you today?”
A warm, toothy smile spread across his face as he replied, “I’m good, especially now that I’ve seen you.” ( I said to myself, Oh this uncle is so clever).
Curiosity got the best of me, and I couldn’t resist asking, “Uncle, where is your family?”
His answer was touching, “I don’t have a family. I’m still searching for a wife to start a family…
