Mactan - Day 1

I've always struggled with posting anything about my diving. The experience is too personal and overwhelming to try and put into words. But the cat food seems to have been a turning point and while it will still be impossible to describe the wonder that exists underwater, I'm going to make a few attempts to capture these few days in Mactan. My first visit to the Philippines and my first dive trip alone. It's been an unforgettable experience and one of the best for the sheer surprise of what I found. 

My first evening, I emerge all showered and wondrous for having seen the sardine run and settle down at the bar. The sky is dark except for a orange blaze, shimmering behind strands of cloud. While I'm bemoaning a lost sunset, I realize it's the rising moon... which eventually evolves into a in impossible giant pearl in the sky and I feel like a Miss World contestant all gushing at winning the prize. What a perfect end to a spectacular day. An unforgettable brush with the Gods that are sardine and now this...

I want to call and share the experience with someone and as I debate between CF and my mother, Dr. Velkar pops up. He's the one who pithily reminds me that it's the most base of instincts that makes me think that this is what God might look like and as I'm chatting with him, I'm distracted by the sound of thumpa thumpa and and unexpected 'woack, woack' chant.. pulsing green and red lights wafting across the water as a disco ball makes a valiant effort to compete with the moonlight glancing off the waves.... 'woack, woack.... Hang on a second... I know this sound... 'woack, woack...... Gangam style'. Sheesh! I'm reminded I'm in Karaoke heartland and I abandon myself to the surreal.... this is going to be a fun trip!