Amid the suffering, sacrifices, and isolation that the pandemic is unprecedently giving almost every one of us in the world, something beautiful is also unfolding. At first, I didn’t want to acknowledge it because doing so may seem insensitive to those who are not doing well. But I think choosing to be positive can help also and especially those who are in pain. As I reflect on the brighter side of this dire situation, I am noticing the beauty of humanity. People are now more willing to help and connect with one another. Some people not just donate but also take the initiative to start their own fundraisers and relief programs. Others contribute by sharing their skills and knowledge via online live streams, social media feed, and tutorials.
Some of the programs I applaud are by Vegans of Manila, Mesa ni Misis, Good Food Community, and Pawssion Project. They have inspired me to help them feed our frontliners with healthy plant-based meals and provide them with protective gear. They have also inspired me to help the urban poor communities and rural farmers in the Philippines, especially now that their income is extremely limited. Lastly, I wanted to partake in taking care of neglected stray dogs and cats that are rampant in the Philippines. They too, need help.
I’m also taking it upon myself to share more of my cooking online. I am no master chef, but I’m hoping that by showing you how and what I cook, it will inspire you to spend more time in the kitchen and perhaps pick up a new skill. I think now is an excellent time to learn something new and cultivate an interest in self-improvement. Now is an excellent time to reevaluate ourselves.
Aside from cooking videos, I thought of extending my approach to other aspects of the vegan lifestyle. To do this, I reached out to some of the leading voices in the Philippines on this subject. I first met them in Manila, and we kept in touch since then. They specialize in topics like self-reliance and sustainability, mindfulness and meditation, and health and fitness. I hope these topics will serve as powerful tools as we face these challenging times.
These three episodes will be up on my IGTV and YouTube. They will remain posted, so you don’t have to worry about the difference in time zones or in case you miss the dates. These videos are simple zoom calls without the glitz and glam. They are straightforward conversations that focus on content and not aesthetic. I hope you find these humble yet powerful interviews applicable to your day-to-day routine.
As we go more in-depth and contemplate further, I hope our insights will turn to new habits and ways of thinking during and once the pandemic is over. We don’t need to wait for another crisis to step up and be better versions of ourselves. With these videos and with the beautiful things people are doing in our community, I believe we can become more united and stronger now and moving forward.