No matter what crushing or even traumatic experiences hit me in life, I've never seen the sense in wallowing in the bad, and I truly believe it's something I owe to the indomitable Filipino psyche. We, as a nation, have always had the capacity not just to persevere but to find even the tiniest speck of joy through the worst of times. Manila has been in the throes of a paralyzing and tragic flood for the past few days, and yet, you see that uniquely Filipino ability to smile and even have fun through it all.
This is no way meant to diminish the amount of suffering that thousands of Filipinos are going through right now. The floods have absolutely devastated the city, but I am proud of the beautiful Filipino spirit that is shining through despite all that they're going through—from their ability to stay positive no matter what to the admirable civic consciousness that is pushing relief efforts, big and small.

Below, I'm posting all the groups and donation sites I've come across for those in the Philippines who are looking for ways to help. To those outside the country, please see yesterday's post for ways to help out when your only means is a mouse and a credit card.