Long ago, I had once come across an article which stated that the Filipino women are probably the most fortunate in Asia. They are respected and revered by their counterparts in society; they can avail of education; they can hold office and own properties. Indeed, one of the most respected role in Philippine society is that of a Mother.
To capture the essence of a Filipina is akin to creating a most elusive fragrance. She is demure and coy at the same time. She is sensual yet conservative; modest but bewitching. She is Mestiza; she is Chinita; she is Morena. She is the biddable housewife. She is the general of an army of rebelling patriots. She is as courageous as Joan of Arc. Perhaps, the one true common denominator is that Filipino women have an indomitable spirit and she can love so purely and so powerfully. These characteristics she carries with her wherever fate brings her. In fact they are what helps her to survive in foreign lands among strangers.
She is a considerate daughter. She is a loyal friend. As a wife she is loving and supportive, an ever dynamic factor in her husband's life and career. Never has the phrase "Behind every great man is a woman," been more true in the case of a Filipino woman. She is the driving force in a family, in a marriage, or in a relationship. Perhaps, the secret is that she can hold her own and her tongue at the right moment. Oh, there are naggers. But for the most part, the Filipinas are dignified.
Let us not forget her sense of humor. The article I read a long time ago failed to mention that the Filipino women probably laugh the most in Asia, and in that they are truly fortunate. They are the true optimists always finding something positive out of dire situations. Her laughter is probably her most attractive attribute. And when she engages a member of the opposite sex in a conversation and makes him laugh, before he knows it, he is done for and completely enraptured.
What is the most striking is her source of strength. She did not exercise Yoga for a million years or was given to meditation. She has an inherently strong faith. When things go bad, she will say to herself "bahala na ang Diyos." (God will provide.) For the sake of her loved ones she will pray on bent knees. She would lift everyone's cause except her own. Even if she claims to be non-religious, deep down she knows who her God is and that He will not forsake her. This is what gives her the power and the will to face any situation.
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