I was doing my usual emails this morning when, out of nowhere, I came to realize something unique about my hometown. It's not something related to any mouth-watering native dish or a strange secret known only to the community. It's one thing that we have grown accustomed to since birth but unfortunately, oftentimes completely overlook.
When you visit my dear old town, you will be swamped with greetings all punctuated with Dios (English translation: God). It's really unique, sweet, and refreshing. If you're not watchful, you actually think you're in some heaven. I've been around to many places in the Philippines but there is none like it. We probably got it from the Dominican missionaries who first arrived in the province and converted most to Catholicism. Or it may have been there long before any of the Spanish conquests, a testament of my people's long and old culture.
We don't have time-specific kind of greetings, much like the ones you have separately for mornings, afternoons, and evenings. But we say it with all the sincerity we can muster. We look at you in the eye, and with a courteous nod and smile we say, "Kapian ka pa nu Dios," literally meaning "May God be good to you." After the greetings, we bid you adieu and make sure you're safe. And who can go wrong with how we do it, "Dios machivan dimo," literally meaning "God be with you." And you respond, "Dios mavidin dimo," literally meaning "God stays with you."
You don't look for a doorbell when you visit our homes. Chances are, our gates and main doors, including windows, are wide open so we don't need one. And they're open not just when we're there, but oftentimes for the entire day even when no one is around. You may call out the name if you know it, but even then, you should never fail precede it with "Dios." It's probably the way to say you came in peace or you're bringing good grace. The funny thing is, you have to learn to deliver it not in your most baritone voice no matter how sexy it may be. You have to learn to do it with a more nasal tone. Be ready to appear and feel awkward.
This is my favorite. Receiving gifts or showing appreciation in my town is something taken deeply and seriously. Since we grew up not used to getting presents, receiving one is always something personal, one euphoria that's going to last for longer than usual. And so prayerfully we say, "Dios mamajes," literally meaning "God will repay." There is something poignant on how we say it. We accept we don't really have anything to repay the gesture. And so we pray to God and trust that what you rightfully deserve may be granted.
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