Nan Biag Mid Ili- Katherine Kelly Entry

"Beyond those travelled hills of the north lies my home all laiden with pines. Amidst the soft and silken touch of morning mist I lay my prayers before thy shrine", the song goes as I sit on top of a jeepney while having the chills of the strong wind upon my face. It's been 4 years since I left my hometown. How could it be that I always sense the place as mindblowing at the same time, therapeutic the sceneries, the sound, the time and everything I catch. I hopped in this jeep almost an hour before it started the journey. A journey that will take me to an adventure in my own hometown.

     Kids I am seeing are playing freely on the ground. Guess they are enjoying the day for they know they’d probably be scolded or even whipped by their parents after a long day of running away from their houses. The moment I got out from the trip, I quickly ran to the bench and set my body free from dizziness. I unknowingly had my lips curved into a big smile. This place is just amazing as it has always been . I can’t resist the touch of the fresh air Im breathing. 

     As I was walking to see the family I long to give hugs and kisses, I heard a beautiful sound . I stopped and made some searching. I came to stare at a group of people wearing the respective attires that symbolizes our dear culture. Men are playing the gongs, making the music that calls for the women to dance with the beats. Together, they made a performance that was a great show.

     I continued to where I should go, a place where I firstly and will always belong to. I was hesitant to enter the house I'm facing when I started reminscing the life I've had. I wanted to enjoy more the past before finally resting in my home sweet home. I after ran towards a father sitting on the front door with a cup of brewed coffee in hand. I greatly smiled and decided to have at last a long sleep on my first day in "ili".

     I was awakened by the great yellow sun shine on my face . It felt so nice. Then what's supposed to be done next? We had the first meal and headed to the mountain. We lived by farming and we'll still live with it always. It took us 30 minutes to reach the farm I worked in years ago. Fascinated , I grasp as I happily ready myself to climb the alnus trees. I must say it is a different kind of adventure, and is somewhat an encouragement for the youngsters to join the farming labors. It is hard of course but with friends and families, "ob obbo" and "binnadang" is at least energizing the people in work.

     Life in "ili" is just as good to experience and imagine. In it, we could find peace and silence. People get to live with one another. They preserve unity through characters and cultures. As long as the families stick together, and all the people work together for the blessed place, the life we call in "ili" will always be a pleasure that will lead to a better future for the coming generations.