Little Joys, Quiet Moments
I have been here in Phnom Penh for two weeks now, JR reminded me the last time we chatted through YM. “Oo nga ano…” (Oh, yes it is…), I replied back. It seems just like yesterday when I was walking through the immigration of Phnom Penh International Airport. Not bad, for someone who was, at first, a bit apprehensive about relocating to an unfamiliar place (though admittedly, there was also excitement).
What have I seen and felt the past two weeks? For one, I feel so much gratitude in my heart. Not because of big things happening, no. In fact, my life these days is as simple as it can get. I wake up, prepare for the day, go out and explore the sights and cafes /restaurants around, open my emails, surf the job websites, have dinner by myself or friends, then go back to my hotel. Sometimes, I attend meetings (I once attended a forum on human trafficking) and meet fellow consultants. My life, nowadays, is so…how shall I describe it in one word? Quiet? Serene? Perhaps. I have not felt this much peace in a long long time. And I feel so grateful because everyday brings little joys.
Phnom Penh at night: glowing like a rare jewel [Image Anna Suarin]
Let me share one perfect example. These days, I have the services of a favorite tuktuk driver. Well, I have considered more than a ‘personal’ driver but more of a trusted friend because as I have shared in my previous e-mail, it was difficult to communicate because I didn’t speak the local language. And in a city like Phnom Penh (especially for a woman), traveling the streets could get really challenging. When I met this kind gentleman outside my hotel and had experienced an enjoyable ride with him–more like a nice tour in itself–I decided that he’s gonna be my friend and favorite driver in Phnom Penh.
He is a true gentleman, amiable, professional, and arrives promptly in every appointment. He is also very trustworthy. When he offers to buy something for me especially for things that require local knowledge, he returns the change up to the last centavo. This is especially important and deeply appreciated because sometimes, tourists (admittedly, even in other countries) can feel a little ‘harassed’ or brought in uncomfortable situations. Whenever I pay him, always, he bows with so much gratitude. He holds the money with both his hands, puts it near his heart, and bows his head.
I find it deeply touching that even if there are words lost in translation, he points to me landmarks and historical places that we pass by on the way to my destinations. Sometimes his style of messaging gives me a smile but I never really mind. I understand him and that’s all that matters. Last night, it rained so heavily and some streets were flooded and I worried that he will not be able to fetch me anymore (from the cafe where I was spending the whole afternoon and most evening checking my mails and chatting with JR). But yes, he was there, half-dry and half-wet, a little late maybe, but yes, he was there to bring me back to my hotel safely. We negotiated through the rains and he found alternate routes…I was safely back in my hotel before 10:00 pm. When these things happen, who can’t help but say a prayer of gratitude?
And then there are the very gracious waiters and waitresses who always serve my meals with such sweet and heartwarming smiles. Khmer food is really yummy and the satisfaction is enhanced because they are served by people who are generous with their smiles. Now, I am seated in an outdoor cafe by the river (wi-fi use is free!), with a nice mug of green tea beside me, writing this blog. What more can I ask for?
I miss my friends and family. I miss the chaos of Manila! But yes, I am falling in love with this place. It still scares me sometimes but I think I wouldn’t mind calling this my home for a while.
Cambodia is giving me so much. I hope I can give as much in return.
[Re-post of a blog dated June 16, 2007 (from my previous site).]
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