Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has been thinking about me. I feel pretty lucky to have so many people that were worried about me being in the chaos of the typhoon. Luckily I was not, and it’s a bit surreal being here and not really knowing what is going on. I just know that it is pretty bad as I have heard from some of you what is going on in the hardest hit areas and when we do go out to eat at our favorite cheap spot, they have a TV, so I have seen some of the images. Pretty horrible how nasty Mother Nature can be, but then again . . . . we’re not all that kind to her these days either!
I was wandering around town the other day and noticed a big group of men wearing badges. They looked like some kind of officials, and when I got back to Deep Gold, they were there. One of them was looking at the damage of the wall, so I kind of assumed they were some kind of damage assessment dudes. Turns out they were the “Tax Man” and as of now Deep Gold along with other buisnesses in town are shut down due to not paying taxes. Luckily for us, we’re not being kicked out, but I was told they are not allowed to take in any more buisness for the month. A few new people moved in today, however, and the other buisnesses that have closed signs seem to be up and running as well, so I’m not really sure what that means.
While I was wandering around, I stopped in a shop. The radio was on full blast and the lady was really agitated. There was a bit of a language barrier, but she was telling me something about a scandal with a senator. Either this senator was taking money that was meant to go to the typhoon victims, or he had stolen money and people were angry because this money that he stole should be going towards the victims. Why does this seem to be the same story everywhere? The people who desperately need funds or help are always the last ones to get it?
Not much else to report from this week. Another student (a Filipino Canadian from Winnipeg) showed up as he will be taking the healing course with us for the last month. Joy and Danielle are looking at their last week next week, and I’m a bit sad to be losing my buddies. They’re still here for a week, so I’ll just focus on enjoying the time I have with them now.
Deep Gold hit by THE tax man.
Some of the other businesses affected.
Hey RB have an awesome birthday – you guys clearly know how to celebrate. Miss your presence and looking forward to hearing more about your adventures.
Lots of love,
Susan