From small and simple things - great things are created

While life in the twenty-first century brings unprecedented efficiency, it also brings an overwhelming urgency. This lifestyle makes it easy to forget that greatness takes time. We want everything in the here and now – right here, right now. With improvements in technology occurring daily, it only makes sense that we feel entitled to have things immediately. And when frustrations mount because life isn’t happening fast enough, it’s nice to bring a little humor into the equation.

Truly magnificent structures, natural wonders, and rare marvels are only here because of what is called "little by little" - small changes taking place over time. Over time, the Colorado River has carved one of the world’s most impressive examples of erosion: The Grand Canyon. This canyon is 277 river miles long. At its deepest, from rim to river, the canyon is over one vertical mile. In some places, the canyon, rim to rim, is 18 miles wide. What we see now is the result of centuries upon centuries of work.

Look also at the pearl. What was once a mere piece of sand within the folds of the mollusk becomes a precious gemstone. Examples abound of small actions, over time, producing sights which are truly impressive to behold … results which can truly stagger the mind.

Want to increase the chances that you’ll achieve the success we all desperately want and need? Begin today to invest just 10% more time in those things that are important to you. The dividends you’ll receive from small changes made over days, weeks, and months will be worth the wait. Remember: Whether eroding rock or growing money, greatness takes time!

It takes twenty years to become an overnight success.
~ Eddie Cantor

The above section whilst adapted a little, came from an email I received from a daily update that I get to help me remain focussed. The significance of its content contrasts amazingly at the experience recently in the Philippines, where people are rarely too busy for life, whilst many people want things now, there is always a space where they can sit, chat and relax. One thing that is amazing is that manicures and pedicures are often something women aND men enjoy. People come to the house and sit on small stools in front of you and cut your nails. The art of relaxation is not lost in the Philippines, I guess they live true to the biblical references that suggest there is a season.

People are always friendly, well mostly, and there is a spirit that is imbued in these people that inspite of such humble circumstances they are proud and resolute and they, for the most part, love life. One aspect of life that is interesting, is that differences whilst not always embraced are respected or allowed to exist without judgement or condemnation. There are many Filipino men, in a nation of 100 million people that is only a small amount, who are called Bacla's or "She men" or men who "bat for the other side" or gay. One of the surprising things is that in the Philippines most of these people work in the choreographing area for schools, parades, shows or they work in hair dressing. Now clearly that is a massive generalisation, but would be representative of many. The general populous accepts these people and largely co-exist with a mutual respect. I like that. I also saw a crazy, homeless lady in the city one day. I watched her with much curiosity and didn't wish to take pictures of her, but I loved how people would smile as they walked past as a gesture of humor and respect. Amazing.

I learned so much from these people who taught me that no matter what mountains I face ahead or what devastating circumstances I may feel surrounded by life is for living, life is for enjoying, and life is right now! Mabuhay to the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people. People who not only philosophically believe in the "little by little" principle, they live it. Put another way, a small mustard seed when germinated and cultivated can become a massive Oak tree. I believe the I hope that the Philippines or more specifically the Filipino people possess an attitude and resilience that truly is great, and the experiences I have gleaned on this visit will forever be a guide to me to ensure I live equal to, and beyond the opportunities afforded me.