Elders from Ibasho project in Japan are visiting community members in the prospective Ibasho cafe site in Ormoc, Philippines. We had such an inspiring first day of elders exchanging their ideas and skills to each other.

One of the Japanese elders who is a retired carpenter, realized a few useful techniques that could make local homes stronger against to typhoon. Then, the elders picked up the carpentry tools and helped a 84 year old man who were building his home.

After their exchange of skills and knowledge in two countries. The Japanese elders said “We have learned so much from the people in Philippines. They may have limited resources, but they are so resilient and happier than most of Japanese people.”

They have also told me that “we felt that we were able to communicate with Filipino people, although we did not speak the same language. We learned that connecting with others do not require language, but the sense of security and comfort with the person in front of you.”

Today, we have a workshop with local elders for the Ibasho cafe project. I am so looking forward to the continuous learning from the elders from Japan and Philippines…