There is a mound of untouched soil in our backyard where beliefs are embedded. I have learned of the whimsical stories about its unseen, mischievous owner, but it was my mother’s tales that shaped my childlike wonder and belief in this intangible creature—the one they called a duwende. We offer our respect to the land and its owner, and the duwende blesses us in return with protection, wisdom, and riches that transcend materiality.

Dumduman ko sang una Sang ako ang nagaeskwela sa elementarya May tuman ka dako nga paho Sa likod sang amon eskwelahan Dumduman ko sang una Nga ginapatihan ini nga mariit Wala sing may nagatudlo Sa kahadlok nga ang mga tudlo Magkalautod-magkalatiplo