A Foreigner?

So we have been here two months and it still feels like we are trying to get our feet on the ground. Although Angola was a huge adjustment for us at least there were many things that were already set up for us (like the housing, compound facilities and maintenance staff). There is also something very stabilizing about having fellow ex-pat neighbors who are all from the same company. We are definitely more independent and under the radar here. In thinking about the next few years here, there are more questions than answers in my mind. Maybe that's true no matter where you are doing life. Of course I feel like there is ultimately a purpose for specifically being here in Manila. Just not clear on the details. As I go through my day there is a bi-polar feel to it. On the outside, I blend in with others. In fact, at least once a day someone will speak to me in Tagalog. Sometimes I understand what's being said in context (and maybe nod my head even though I don't really know what they're saying) while other times I give the confused look (which causes them to repeat themselves in English). But on the inside I do feel like a stranger in my surroundings. I guess that's to be expected whenever you try to plant your roots in a new place. Still thinking about work and what the possibilities might be for me. Finishing school seems like ages ago. In fact, I think I forgot my username and password already. I'm sure I will look back on this post with a grin and a chuckle.