by Rosario Charie Albar During the many years I've traveled solo, I've rarely felt alone or lonely. As a Filipina traipsing around the globe, I can easily make friends with a ngiti , smile and a simple kumusta , how are you. The much touted word, diaspora, is the reason why no matter where my travels take me, there is often a friend at the next destination. About two months ago I was in Prague at the Church of Our Lady Victorious. This is the home of the Infant Jesus of Prague which is in a temperature-controlled glass case. During mass I noticed two kababayans seated behind me. I turned around and extended my hand to them in the traditional “Peace be with you” greeting. I lingered a little bit after mass to examine a painting of the Madonna and Child on a side altar. I was surprised and pleased to see that the Madonna was dressed in a saya and nipa huts were at her feet. Crossing the street in search of a restaurant, I saw the two Filipinos I had noticed earlier in church a
“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” - James Michener