ATD’s United Family Day By Tracy Cruz

All Together In Dignity (ATD) Fourth World Philippines held its Family Day with the communities of North Cemetery, Ilalim ng Tulay, Hilum, and Lozada, One Voice Communication Forum delegates, volunteers and friends last March 4, 2012 at the Sunken Garden, University of the Phi lippines, Diliman in Quezon City.

200 participants interacted and basked in the rays of the Sunday sun shaded by century old Acacia trees. Traditional Filipino games spiced up the day which delighted both children and adults. A simple merienda lovingly prepared by volunteers and friends was distributed in an organized manner by community members. The crowd also enjoyed outdoor activities such as kite flying, volleyball, and badminton. Laughter echoed throughout the park and it was a pleasure to feel the happiness of the group. Strangers openly shared personal stories in an intimate setting of communal mats. Family members were candidly introduced and the children gamely played with each other. Environment conscious participants cleaned up afterwards and tediously disposed the trash in its proper place.

The honesty and simplicity of the event reflected ATD’s ideal of ‘involvement with disadvantaged communities’. Equality and magnanimity were strongly felt by everyone. The unity of the team was palpable. We were one family. ATD Family Day was a reminder that the best things in life are indeed free. What matters the most is the quality of the relationships that we build, regardless of class, gender, age and race. It was a speci al day shared by all without bias and social barriers, like the way it should be in the outside world. May the positive spirit of the event last in our hearts and extend in our everyday lives!