Hi, it's me again. How’s life doing lately?
Welcome back to another soulful chat on my blog #3! xD
Back when the pandemic happened, I got the hobby of reading history books and used my imagination to create vivid pictures. As time went by, I was somehow encouraged by myself about a dream that wasn’t focused on fame and fortune, but rather on putting myself in a world where past and present intertwined. A different world that felt both real and that dream was dreaming of being able to visit a museum.
Museums will always hold a special place in my heart. I may not be good in arts but those placed inside that building were more than what we normally see in our eyes as artifacts and paintings. In the back of my mind, those were like portals to different times, cultures, and worlds just like what I saw in every fantasy and historical movie that shares such beyond powerful story to tell. An unexplained beauty as I surround myself with such timeless treasures with awe.
These places hold a unique beauty that goes beyond the designs. Inside of it lies the stories of our history, the triumphs, and tragedies, love and loss, our greatest heroes who fought for us that make us future generations, reflect of the past and the present that deeply helped us truly appreciate and envision.
Each one of them is a puzzle of the past that once completely reveals how our people collect every unbelievable journey, their unmatched creativity, inventions, and how they pour their emotions into it. This somehow continues to shape our world, and every country, and inspire us. Visiting this magical place was more than just a dream, but wished to be part of that historical beauty to witness every chapter that lies ahead in the past.
And last year, my dream finally came to reality! During our Girl Scout Division Encampment, we were allowed to visit the Museo de Naga which was in my hometown, the City of Naga, Cebu. It was not just a place of our city’s cultural and historical treasures but also the heritage of our past and the lively spirits that sent me shivering as I entered every room.
As I wandered through the museum where there were three galleries - the Natural History, Naga Heritage and Contemporary, and the Leader's Gallery - as well as a library and conference room, I was more than a happy kid as I walked every aisle and corner, it was like a place of heaven for me because I got to know our culture more that deepened my idea and knowledge.
As soon as I got in the first room of Museo de Naga, I found myself immediately shaken by Naga’s natural history which captivated each one of my friends' eyes. It was said to us that the exhibit showcased the Tunlob Schist which was the oldest geological formation in Cebu, dating back to the Jurassic period approximately 200 million years ago.
Here lies all the materials they used to cook in the past and the firewood they used to light the fire, which some still do today but is now rare. Cooking with fire has been part of human civilization since the beginning of time which has allowed us to feed ourselves and make delicious food that brought people together. But, with the advancement of society and technology of our generation, things have changed.
Even though time has changed the way of cooking methods, there are still many places around the city of Naga that still use firewood when cooking. And yes! These communities often live in remote areas with limited access to electricity and gas.
I am thankful for these people because, even if you may not notice, they helped preserve the traditional way of cooking using firewood and passed down recipes and techniques from generation to generation.
I will never forget that during our encampment this method saved my team from cooking when we didn't have extra gas or butane to use to cook our rice. It was a pretty fun experience, to be honest.
I wish I could wear these old clothes the way people wore them when they walked during the old times. Fashion has always been an integral part of human history and reflects the culture, values, and social norms of different eras. When I delve into the exhibitions, I can't stop wondering about the stories behind these clothes and the former wearers.
Fashion isn't just about clothes, and through the history of time, fashion has evolved and changed under the influence of many different factors such as politics, art, technology, and social movements. From ancient civilizations to today, fashion has greatly influenced our identity and the way we present ourselves to the world.
Looking at this instrument brought me nostalgia and somehow, it reminded me of the time when it was used for cultural traditions. It was used to serenade, win the hearts of pursuers, and add rhythm and melody to traditional dances.
but then again, we no longer do those anymore not unless there are school tasks that are related to this environment that preserve our cultural heritage. In that way, students have the opportunity to learn, play, and perform, keeping our traditions alive and promoting pride in our roots.
Strolling through the exhibit room, one had caught my attention. That was the iconic Naga train station which was made to show the process of cement production. The level of detail in the miniature trains looked almost perfectly real, making them come alive before my eyes!
One of the most captivating features of the museum was a diorama that beautifully depicted the topography of the city. It showcased the various elevations, valleys, hills, and the intricate river system that defines the landscape of Naga.
I love how it highlighted the coal mines and limestone areas! According to the description, it states there that it was used in the development of the booming cement industry during the American Colonial Period in the Philippines.
It's amazing to see how these natural resources have shaped and contributed to its growth. I couldn't help but look back and forth to the well-detailed and adorable miniatures that brought the history and geography of Naga to life! All I can say is that I am beyond proud to be called a Nagahanon.
I didn't have many pictures in the library as well as all the leaders who have brought a big change in the history of Naga but as I walked out of the museum, I carried with me not just memories of a beautiful experience, but a renewed sense of awe and wonder, a deeper understanding of our shared journey, and the desire to continue exploring, learning, and growing. For in the end, isn't that what life is all about?
This is the story of my dream come true. I didn't just have fun but learned a lot of things as well, and hopefully, I could visit the place again!
It's thesoulofsol once again leaving a quote saying, doing your best is great, but it's okay to take a break once in a while or you'll burn out.
'Til next time, folks!