Sharing While Becoming
The Sari Skirt
A Bridge to Becoming
Today, I remember a moment from 14 years ago. I was in a coffee shop in India, working on a research paper. It was the first time I saw a young woman wear a sari casually with a T-shirt. And I realize I’ve carried that memory with me all these years.
I remember her for her style, her presence, and the way she embraced her culture — wearing her garment in her own way. A modern take on a traditional piece. To me, that spoke of art: honoring traditions while also embracing the new.
There was an openness to how I felt her presence. It meant a lot to me because I was, for a few weeks, in a foreign country — struggling with a different language, a different culture, doubting my choices, and feeling alienated (not because anyone was unkind, but because I felt out of place). Yet her presence comforted me somehow. I didn’t even speak to her or hear her voice. I just saw her. I don’t know what was in her mind or her heart. But how I experienced her put me at ease, expanded my imagination, and left a mark on me — a pivotal moment that helped me embrace how different I am.
It shaped how I like to dress and express myself through fashion. How my dreams are reflected in my clothes. How I can marry different traditions and beliefs without being only this or that — but embracing all, as they resonate with my heart.
Such is the power of presence.
More and more, I no longer believe that transformative experiences must be long or personal. Sometimes a person you don’t know — someone you only briefly see — can leave a lasting imprint on your consciousness for the better.
Now, from a coffee shop in Sacramento, USA — after a marriage, a son, a cat, and a major career change — I connect to that moment 14 years ago as if it were yesterday. The feelings of uncertainty are still fresh, and yet they feel small compared to the inspiration and gratitude I carry for where I am now and who I have become.
Here’s to saris. Here’s to Indian tradition. Here’s to my Filipino roots. To coffee shops that nurture creativity and community. Here’s to art. Here’s to me. Here’s to the mystery of life and the infinitely wonderful ways we are all becoming.
With love and gratitude to all those who have shared beautiful moments with me,