Find out more about Unli Dapa, a quirky and amusing term that we invented during the quarantine.
(Unli Dapa, from the words “unlimited” and “dapa,” a Tagalog word which means “to trip or to fall over.”)
Unli Dapa encapsulates how our life has been during the Metro Manila quarantine that was brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Unli Dapa
Why Unli Dapa, you might ask? It’s nothing profound, really. Unli Dapa is a term that I quite jokingly coined to describe the afternoon walks that my wife and I had with our two little children during the lockdown.
With all the time we had in our hands, I remarked that my eldest son could finally play outside to his heart’s content. And since I would put protective pads on his knees and elbows before we went around running, he would not get hurt even if he fell down several times, hence, Unli Dapa.
With all the time we had in our hands, I remarked that my eldest son could finally play outside to his heart’s content. And since I would put protective pads on his knees and elbows before we went around running, he would not get hurt even if he fell down several times, hence, Unli Dapa.
In the end, our Unli Dapa moments, all those simple yet happy times of togetherness, kept us distracted from all the uncertainties during the quarantine.
Life before Unli Dapa
Before there was Unli Dapa, I was already at a crossroads in terms of my career. I felt like my job was eating too much of my time and I wanted to spend more of my hours with my children.
Yes, my wife and I do come home early since we are renting a unit near the office. We can still take care of our children and play with them soon after our day at the office is done. We feed our kids, read a book to them, and put them to bed, and we would still have a bit more time left for ourselves.
We are grateful because, unlike other working parents, we have this privilege of being with our children immediately after work. Despite this, I can still feel a void inside me, a yearning to be with my kids a little more. I think it was the routine at the office that was already taking its toll on me and beginning to rob me of the things that make me happy.
When my mind wanders sometimes, I get sad with the thought of one day waking up and realizing that my kids have already grown up without me noticing it. On many occasions, I wished for the day when I can finally make it up to my kids. Thinking about it now, I was actually praying for the day when our Unli Dapa moments would arrive.
Unli Dapa steered us through the gloom
The answer to my prayers came in an unconventional form because I had to find it in the midst of gloom.
By mid-March this year, the entire Metro Manila was placed under a widespread lockdown because of the pandemic. Honestly, I thought that the quarantine would only last for a week. After that, we would be back to our regular routine. That was not the case though, in fact, the community quarantine was extended a few more times until we were allowed to resume work at our office.
Could this situation finally be the Unli Dapa that I was fervently praying for? I will have to find out later on.
Like other Filipinos, our anxiety grew by the day because of the uncertainties and the seeming darkness that lie ahead. The disruption from the familiarity of our daily routine was unthinkable. But more than anything else, it was the waiting game that was unbearable.
What will happen to our jobs? We could not help but be anxious each time we are bombarded by news about companies laying off employees and businesses closing down. Before the pandemic, I was wishing for a new career path but I am not ready to lose my livelihood in an instant just yet. We do not have enough savings to get us through the days and I am worried about the future of my children.
It felt like my whole existence was being constricted. The everyday stress, the feeling of unease, and the challenges of supporting a big household, when combined, is a panic attack waiting to happen.
Thankfully though, our companies assured us that we would continue to receive a salary and that our leave credits would remain intact despite work suspension. That alone lifted a lot of burden from our shoulders and at least put us at ease that we would not starve in the days ahead.
Still, the pandemic brought a different level of paranoia when it came to our health. More than anything, I was worried about the health of my loved ones. My wife is considered high-risk because of her hypertension. My children are still so small; the idea of them catching an infection is unthinkable.
Furthermore, my parents are both senior citizens living on their own at our home in the province. Who would take care of them should anything untoward happens? And lastly, I feared for my own health because I wanted to grow old with my wife and see my children become adults.
Furthermore, my parents are both senior citizens living on their own at our home in the province. Who would take care of them should anything untoward happens? And lastly, I feared for my own health because I wanted to grow old with my wife and see my children become adults.
However, these are things that we have little control over, and worrying round-the-clock will not solve anything. We can be more cautious health-wise, yes, and we can limit the errands that require us to go out, but that is just about as much as we can do.
Thus, instead of wallowing in despair and preoccupying my days with dread, I decided to look beyond the grimness of the situation. We can start something new and pick up from where we were at. After all, we were told by the government to stay home. Why not just take it as it is? At least, we would not have to go through the trouble of filing for a vacation leave, I thought in jest.
Selfish as it may seem but we had to find a way to look at things creatively to survive, and that is when Unli Dapa finally came into our lives.
To keep ourselves busy, we created a simple routine for our kids that included learning and play. Mornings were dedicated to getting the early morning sun, reciting the alphabet, identifying colors, playing with shape sorters, watching educational videos, and letting our kids play with their cousins.
Meanwhile, late afternoons would be the schedule of our “unlimited” playtime at the front lawn. But before that, I would prep my two-year-old son by putting on knee and elbow pads to cushion him when he fell down.
That’s when I jokingly said that he could have Unli Dapa all he wants since he is well-protected anyway. That gave my son the confidence and the enthusiasm to carry on and enjoy the activities that he loved doing the most without any hesitation. From then on, I began calling our afternoon bonding Unli Dapa. When it was time for our afternoon walk, I would cheerfully announce “Unli Dapa na!” and our toddler would be ecstatic.
During the quarantine, we did not use our free time to learn new skills or try the different food trends that became popular at that time. It was perfectly fine because I finally fulfilled my dream of having unlimited bonding with our kids and nothing could be more wonderful than that. Having lived in the restrictive confines of a condominium unit for years, unlimited playtime outdoors is a totally new experience for us and it was utter heaven for the kids.
What’s even better is that our routine worked wonders for our toddler. We observed that our firstborn, who was diagnosed with global developmental delay when he turned two years old, showed a lot of improvements as the days went on.
He began to be more responsive when we said his name. He was making more eye contact when we talk to him, and his concentration has dramatically improved. He would also read letters and say the names of pictures that he recognized. We consider those as big achievements and they inspired us to push forward each day.
About my younger baby, we saw him grow right before our very eyes. He was born just three months before the lockdown. If you factor in our combined maternity and paternity leaves, then you would see that we have just been recently back to the office when the lockdown was imposed. There is nothing more joyful than seeing your child’s growth milestones unfold in front of you. As parents, it's really hard to describe the happiness that you feel when you see your children getting big, enjoying life, and laughing vigorously.
As the days passed, I realized that the phrase Unli Dapa took on a deeper meaning in our lives because it helped us cope with the pandemic. Unli Dapa, without us immediately realizing it, got us through the days of uncertainties, and what’s even better is that it came with the bonus of further strengthening the bond that holds our family together.
For my family, Unli Dapa connotes the resiliency to bounce back from setbacks and the faith that there is still something good and bright to look forward to after each day. For me, Unli Dapa captures all those many little precious moments that I got to spend with my wife and kids during the community quarantine.
And for many people, Unli Dapa is the mettle to continue moving forward and tackle the challenges that lie ahead because life is not about giving up. Life is about hurdling barriers because we see the good things that await us on the horizon. We may not always win, but at least we put up a good fight. Beyond all the chaos and drama of the pandemic, that is how I choose to remember the almost 100 days of being in isolation.
The human spirit is strong. As long as it sees hope, it can take unlimited beatings. As long as it loves, it will not stop moving forward. As long as it seeks, it will trudge obstacles.
Unli Dapa means that we may fall down a lot of times and we may commit many mistakes along the way, but there’s no limiting the number of times that we can get up, start again, and make progress.
Update
This article placed 7th overall in the "Write to Ignite Blogging Project." My gratitude goes to God who has continuously provided us with all the necessary things that we need. Thank you also to all the readers and supporters of this humble blog.
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| Certificate of Recognition |
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This story is an entry to ComCo Southeast Asia’s “Write to Ignite Blogging Project”. The initiative is a response to the need of our times, as every story comes a long way during this period of crisis. Igniting and championing the human spirit, “Write to Ignite Blog Project” aims to pull and collate powerful stories from the Philippine blogging communities to inspire the nation to rise and move forward amidst the difficult situation. This project is made possible by ComCo Southeast Asia, co-presented by Eastern Communications, and sponsored by Electrolux, Jobstreet, and Teleperformance.
This post may contain affiliate links, including those from Amazon Associates, which means that if you book or purchase anything through one of those links, we may earn a small commission but at no extra cost to you. All opinions are ours and we only promote products that we use.
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Congratulations on this article, well-deserved place! Thanks for posting this, perfect for this coming Father's Day!
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ReplyDeleteWhat to say but congratulations? Objectively you are very good at what you do, how you keep and blog. A mine of interesting things!
This is a beautiful post. Congratulations on placing in the the Blogger Project. Unli Dapa...it's amazing how this creative term has unified and brought so much love to your family.
ReplyDeleteThe pandemic has really made all of us sad. Congratulations what an amazing article. We all learned so much about family and how to deal with hard times.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the award from the Blogger Project. And thank you for sharing this great post with us!
ReplyDeleteCute baby you got there! I think I already posted a comment here, this post is something I won't forget because of those baby smiles, it surely brightens our day here.
ReplyDeleteSuch an adorable and active boy and of course you would enjoy every moment to be with him. he is absolutely precious. - Knycx Journeying
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the award and oh those baby pics are so adorable, these trying times have made us realise the importance of family so much more. Very well expressed.
ReplyDeleteCongrats for the award. Your baby is really very cute and adorable. Loved reading your post.
ReplyDeleteBrilliant work. I like that term, "unli dapa". I think that's the kind of swag we possess as Christians. I don't exactly think life is all peaches and cream as a Christian, but God's presence truly makes us resilient and gracious, despite.
ReplyDeleteMy own pandemic story is different. I seriously thought I was closing my practice. I couldn't imagine how I was going back to work in the mouths of people--with Covid being such a huge threat. But by God's grace, here I am, more than a year since we reopened, and being fully vaccinated, I feel a glimmer of hope.
We are Filipinos and we are resilient. Whatever crisis we may encounter, Filipios will alwasy thrive. They will survive.
ReplyDeleteIt is really nice to read about Unli Dapa as I think we have experienced these types of moments during our lives, especially now. These times have taught use what was so precious in our lives and what we have forgot.
ReplyDeleteSuch lovely images of your kid and I am glad to have read this positive and Happy post we specially need positivity around us during this time.
ReplyDeleteYour kids are beautiful! Happy fathers day when it comes and congrats on your award ❤
ReplyDeleteThis is such a great read! Congrats and Happy Fathers day!
ReplyDeleteSuper cuteeee. I like the term "unli dapa" haha. For a time at least we have had the chance to spend most of our time with our family and loved one and discover something that we don't ever notice before.
ReplyDeleteI like the coined term you made! Unli dapa seems to also mean even if we fall unlimited times, we also have to stand up each time. And each fall, we learn something new along the way.
ReplyDeletelove the idea of unli dapa! i mean, once we fall, we gotta pick ourselves up, right?
ReplyDeleteI like the creativity in Unli Dapa. Being with my son 24/7 is also my most favorite part of the pandemic. We share the same sentiments and worries as a parent. Nakakapraning minsan but we should keep ourselves sane for us to take care of them.
ReplyDeletehad a good read of your sharing here, really a creative & positive unli dapa :D
ReplyDeletecheers, siennylovesdrawing
Unli Dapa sounds amaizng and so positive. We should all Unli Dapa from now on
ReplyDeleteFeels so good to have someone in our lives who will motivate us to continue living the best everyday. I hope you are doing well. Stay safe!
ReplyDeleteThat is true. Thank you very much and stay safe!
ReplyDeleteHahaha. Thank you! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for your feedback, Sienny!
ReplyDeleteTotoo yan. Actually, it was my children who kept me sane. Taking care of them and playing with them were enough to preoccupy my mind during these times.
ReplyDeleteThat is true. It's about not giving up. We have to stand up after falling.
ReplyDeleteHaha. Thank you! Yes, we have to always look at the bright side to keep our sanity.
ReplyDeleteThat is correct. Thank you for the encouraging words!
ReplyDeleteYes, that is correct. Our family is our source of strength.
ReplyDeleteYup, our family is our wealth. Thank you for the kind words!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much! Stay safe and healthy!
ReplyDeleteYes, those bonding moments are priceless. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much! :)
ReplyDeleteThat's right. God bless your family, too. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteYes, what's good about it is that, in most situations, we can choose how to respond to the stimuli around us.
ReplyDeleteUnli dapa sounds cute tho and reminds me of my childhood days "dapa" whenever my father wants to discipline me from being a naughty kid! Hahaha! But this post made me appreciate my parents and me being a father of two sons too on how someone close to our heart to continue moving forward and be focus on the goal for the better of my family.
ReplyDeleteThat is true. In the end, we draw inspiration from the people who are important to us.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much! Take care and stay safe.
ReplyDeleteThat is true. Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts!
ReplyDeleteYour boys are such cuties. I'm sure you're having a great time with them.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Yup, those moments are priceless.
ReplyDeleteIt is so good you have been safe and have had such a positive outlook throughout the pandemic. I am sure your children will remember these times with a smile rather than fear.
ReplyDeleteThis wisdom is so important and reminds me a bit of the wisdom 'no mud, no lotus'. Great read!
ReplyDeleteYour baby so adorable and I love your words of wisdom despite the crisis we are suffering now you are still have positive vibe.
ReplyDeleteAs a mother, we both share the same concerns about this pandemic. Everything looks pretty unstable at this point but I am so glad to see that you and your family are together, healthy and safe.
ReplyDeleteTbh, I find working from home more beneficial than being in the office. Office work that can be done remotely shouldn't be a last thought for companies today especially when a new generation of employees have a completely different behavior when it comes to working in-house vs. remotely and how their lifestyles are. I waste so much time travelling to and from work that could save me time in the day to enjoy my time with Hubby, our dog, and friends. From my PoV, of course :)
ReplyDeleteLucky you have a great company! Others are greatly affected.
ReplyDeleteYour kids are adorable and your pictures are too good. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYour kids are adorable and pictures are too good.
ReplyDeleteI love how you set the simplicity of an interesting term and how it represents the resiliency to bounce back from setbacks for your family.
ReplyDeleteI was shaken too when the pandemic happened. The extended lockdown has disrupted my plans especially on my career change. Now I am stuck to a job that I learned not to love anymore. However, the key to survive is to be grateful too. Keep safe always.
ReplyDeleteI remember my kids when they are this small. They love unli dapa too, haha!
ReplyDeleteGetting to spend more time with family was a bonus for some people during these times, especially those with young families. Unfortunately, we are empty-nesters, so it was strange not to be able to see our parents who live on their own, our children, and our grandchildren. Just yesterday, my husband was able to see his elderly mother for the first time since March. Still with restrictions--no touching, one person only, barriers between, masks, appointments, etc.--but better than no visits at all.
ReplyDeleteat first, i was wondering what Unli Dapa meant and then i realized it is tagalog word (silly me, LOL )
ReplyDeleteIn life, Up and downs means were alive. Bouncing back stronger what makes us stronger
We have all been affected in this pandemic in some ways. I also think this pandemic gave us ways to sit still and reflect on some things in our lives too in positive ways.
ReplyDeleteI work from home and my fiance is an essential worker. We don't see much of each other, but when we do we make it count.
ReplyDeleteI love you have been able to find the silver lining within the grey clouds.
ReplyDeletea latte of blessings & sparkles,
Jeanie{CoffeeGirl.Blog
The time spent not knowing how the kids grown up is the worst experience many parents doesn't want to have. It doesn't need money to make kids and family happy time is essential and most precious of all.
ReplyDeleteKids are prone to tripping but one thing they really should learn from it is to stand up when they fall! Even with this pandemic, as long as you, parents, are hands on... they can grow an even better individual:)
ReplyDeleteits just so weird that something positive came out of this pandemic. i love how we have more time on our hands now for our little ones.
ReplyDeleteSuch a sweet post. This time of pandemic, we should be brave and always think positive as you can. And always spent time with your kids. As a working at home, its a previlige for me to taking care of my daughter and have a sweet bond to them.
ReplyDeleteYup, that is true. I’m enjoying every bit of my time with my kids in this pandemic.
ReplyDeleteThat is good. I hope your fiance is always safe.
ReplyDeleteHahaha. Thanks. I thought of writing about it because it seemed fun.
ReplyDeleteYup, we have to make do with whatever workaround’s available. I hope you and your loved ones are always safe.
ReplyDeleteHahaha. Kids surely do!
ReplyDeleteYup, let’s just be grateful for whatever we have. We are where we should be right now. Keep safe, too.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the kind words.
ReplyDeleteYes, I can only be grateful to my company.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. In the future, a home-based job is the way to go for me, too.
ReplyDeleteThat is true. I hope you and your loved ones are also always safe and healthy.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteYup. This is a story that I will definitely tell them when they grow up.
ReplyDeleteIt's cute that you guys found a cheeky term for your afternoon walk! I think the pandemic is sort of a wake up call or a reminder. The kids are growing up and growing fast and being parents we have to work hard in order to earn - they're also busy to find time for their kids. I'm glad that you're able to bond with them and remain positive. 😊
ReplyDeleteOh, and your kids look adorable!
ReplyDelete'Coz every time we fall, we need to stand up and fight again, right?We've been very resilient, us Filipinos. God bless your family :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to spend time with your children, having an organized routine is surely helpful. This pandemic has really brougth may positive and negative effects on us. Good thing that you chose to adapt yourself in the situation and to use it based on your convenience.
ReplyDeleteAwww. This was super sweet and very uplifting. I’m sure your children will remember the happy memories you have with them, so continue making more. At the end of the day, family is really all we have, huh?
ReplyDeletewhatever obstacles we encounter in life for sure that we can surpass it coz our family gives us strength to do so especially our kids..
ReplyDeletei like your coined term "unli dapa". you were able to see the reality and hope in your children. this is a great time for you to have been able to spend more and more time with your boys. just keep going,!
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