A quick encounter with Japan Ambassador Toshinao Urabe

I was seated on a stone under the tree – contemplating some challenges in life, breathing fresh air and enjoying the beauty of nature when a group of visitors walked through the lush grasses. Without a second thought, one of them must be Japan's Ambassador to our country - the idea came because of the welcome signage posted at the entrance of Antonio Isidro Hall.

The picturesque view of the golf course I enjoyed watching. 

The welcome signage

I set my eyes to the whole entourage trying to guess who among them was the ambassador because there were a number of them being photographed and assisted. I dared to get closer until one of his staff brought answers to my questions.

The ambassador and company approaching

She affirmed that Ambassador Toshinao Urabe wears a white long-sleeve. Accordingly, the ambassador wanted to take a glimpse of the Lanao Province, the very place when his father- the late ambassador to the Philippines was abducted. The conversation was cut short because the woman got busy taking photos and everyone had to catch up the set appointment at 11:00AM for the courtesy call to the Mindanao State University System President Macapado A. Muslim.

They're getting closer to the trees.

Gladness filled my heart as the ambassador and company braved to set foot on a “horrid place” (a stigma some people used to describe Mindanao). I can see in their faces the appreciation on the lush environment, the picturesque Lanao Lake and the fresh air.

The Ambassador Toshinao Urabe looking at the photo

With fellow Japanese men

That encounter, that moment to see them, that opportunity to observe them may be very short but it had a lasting impact on me.

First, Mindanao like any other place is worth a visit, worth an immersion and worth an experience. It is only when you have an actual / real experience that your biases and prejudices will be challenged – and yes, you will realize that the place is not that horrific than what you thought it to be.

Second, on the personal level, I realize that life is not all about being affected, being challenged by problems and being pushed to the limit. Rather, life is an opportunity to cherish the moment, a chance to become more receptive on the solutions to the problem and a blessing to share it to others. 

Thank you so much... Hope to see you again one day... God bless... 

Do you Like this story..?

Get Free Email Updates Daily!	Follow us!