I’VE ALWAYS admired physically strong women. The reason is obvious: my physical strength is wanting, haha! They are a different breed: they can do physical work with ease.
This is the story of Liezel, stocky, with au naturel Filipina skin, curly hair, and the discernible “I mean business” look. At first, there was hesitation about working in the city. She had a job offer in her hometown and it was practically near her residence which means less expense. We were resigned to her unavailability – which was a big loss on our part – when out of the blue, she messaged us. Talk about good fortune!
I immediately called her up and we agreed on her scope of work. Nah, that sounds too technical, we simply agreed on the terms of her service. At this time, we were enjoying the comforts of House Lungay in Balilihan. Talk about living in three houses in a span of three months!
Liezel is one hell of a lady! And I mean that in a good way. She is physically strong, sensible, practical, thorough, and extremely fast. I have not seen a woman as fast as Jessica (Besorio, hey Jessi!) until I met Liezel. She can actually do everything. She can clean house, cook excellently, sew, clear and maintain the garden, run errands, among others.
I got to know her at Casa de Calope-Galvan in Baclayon, Bohol, where she substituted for their housekeeping lady for two weeks. With a sister vacationing from the US, I thought Liezel would be the right fit for her needs.
Born Liezel Gawat on August 22, 1986, she studied at Baclayon Central Elementary School, and finished her secondary education at Baclayon High School (now Baclayon National High School). She said she did not join any extra-curricular activities in high school even if she wanted to because “Gasto man gud Ma’am.” She contented herself with being on the background.
What surprised me during our short interview was the discovery that she can weave baskets! Wow! When pressed, she explained, “Mao man gud na panginabuhi sa amo, Ma’am.” That sounds fantastic!
At 35, Liezel has three kids with her hubby who is also a resident of Pahayan, Baclayon, Bohol.
She dreams of enrolling in TESDA for added skills to earn a more stable income and finish their house which was destroyed by the whiplash of Odette.
Sometimes when I join her as she clears the front yard, I marvel at how fast she clears the weeds. Is she superhuman, hmm. While she clears and trims the grown plants of my mother, I help by watering the plants. I did the trimming once and my arms ached the following day. So much for physical strength, huh! Let’s leave them to the physically able.
I like Liezel. She has skills and abilities, and she can achieve her dreams if she is fully supported. For now, she must put them aside because she and her husband have to provide for their growing family.
I am happy that we struck our work arrangement based on mutual respect. It’s rare to find a worker like her. She is dependable and trustworthy.
We share a lot of conversations during la merienda and mealtimes because what is life without good conversations, huh! Good chats enable us to know individuals better, understand their dreams and aspirations.
If she sets her mind on her goals, I am sure the stars will align to make it happen for her. I know God looks kindly upon the likes of Liezel.
***
‘Fair Winds and Following Seas’
Happiest Birthday to my unica hija, Shiloh Ruthie Sales Canlas on November 29th, the favorite first granddaughter of Atty. Jun Sales and Dr. Linda Sales who spent all her summers in Bohol growing up hence her love for the province.
Thank you to my cousin Philippine Navy Commander Junmar A. Sales and Dr. Maan Delos Santos for welcoming her into their abode. Genuinely appreciated.
Remember, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it, says Paulo Coelho.” But more importantly, you are a child of God, He will carry you all the way to your desired destination.
We’re here to cheer and wave you on to your next journey. Dream on, you’re nearly there!
***
Writer hosts Woman Talk with Belinda Sales at 91.1 Balita FM Tagbilaran City every Saturday, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. She can be reached at belindabelsales@gmail.com. Twitter @ShilohRuthie./PN
