A life + travel visual diary

#Siargao

I was not really familiar with the word until I read the poem book by Max Ehrmann – and it has been keeping me awake and this almost sounded like a bad thing.

The profound meaning of life itself in this book is amazing. I have been trying to figure out my view of the world by travelling and getting to know people. Although it was fun and exciting all at the same time, the more I travel and meet people the more I realize that beauty in all its imperfections is found in meeting yourself.

I have been travelling around my country for almost 2-years now and the more I go around this young country the more I appreciate my homeland. Two long years of travelling and writing down my thoughts. It’s life-changing.

Here’s a glimpse from the book Desiderata:

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

– Max Ehrmann (Book: Desiderata)

I will be honest, there are times when I become cynical about everything in my life. But travelling helped me let go of it. I love my own company almost that I’m careful who to let in my life yet I’m not closing doors.

Always, always strive to be happy.

Photos credits to ©️Ryan Tascas

I moved to Siargao