Missing the Barrio

One of the interns rotating in our Department asked me if I was a former Doctor to the Barrio. I answered yes and asked how she knew. She said that she read some of my articles these past couple of years. I said thank you but that question led me back to my life there which ended exactly a year ago.

I miss that life because it's the exact opposite of some of the things I go through here in the city. I miss...

• a daily routine that is driven by your needs, not by your watch
• waking up at 8 if I want to!
• no traffic in the streets; I can literally do cartwheel in the middle of it
  
• sound of river, crickets and owl putting me to sleep, not physical exhaustion
• patient, polite and grateful patients in contrast to...
• almost always greeted when walking on the streets and having the time to make small chats because I want to not because I have to
• eating when I want to not when I only can
• fresh air, no pollutions
• crossing hanging bridge or wading in the cleanest river
• my Manongs ang Manangs (that's Kuya and Ate for you)
• fresh fish and udang (shrimp)
  

There are only a few of the things that I miss and the list can go on. Generally, I miss the people and the laid-back life.