The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Emmanuel Ferrer SVD – South Korea
Monday 10th Week in Ordinary Time
In Korea I visited three Filipinos who were detained because of visa problems. Before entering the room where I could meet them, I had to process some papers. I was very sad while doing so because I was thinking of their situation. But after meeting them, my sadness turned to joy.
When the three Filipinos saw me entering the room, they greeted me joyfully. There was no trace of sadness on their faces. “How are you?” I asked. “Okay lang,” they said. “Are you sure you are okay?” I followed up. One of them gave me a surprising answer: “If we take our situation seriously, we will go crazy.” And we all burst into laughter.
I have met so many Filipinos in Korea with heavy problems. One thing very pronounced in their handling of difficulties is that they still manage to smile and crack jokes. “Be happy” seems to be the favorite motto of Filipinos. No wonder we are said to be the jolliest people in the world. The Philippines may be a poor country, but Filipinos are rich in smiles and can be happy in simple things.
Filipino migrant workers are indeed heroes of our country, and they are blessed. Based on my experiences with them, I can attest that they embrace the spirit of the Beatitudes: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted… Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:4,10). They do not only think of themselves; instead, they think more of their families. All they want is to give their loved ones a better life.
These people are truly the happy ones because they suffer for the sake of love. They are happy and fulfilled despite their pains, living proof that joy and sacrifice can coexist when rooted in love.
