Inspired By The Hardworking Mr. Coconut Man of Crocodile Islands, South of Boracay!

Family Snorkeling Time in Crocodile Island

Maybe because of his age, my 5-1/2-year-old didn't know the meaning of fear because he insisted on getting himself into the refreshing waters with the rest of the family.

Snorkeling in Crocodile Island

When I was about to take the plunge, I was sidetracked by an unusual vision of a man on a surfboard. He was paddling his way through the waters in an attempt to sell coconut drinks to the snorkelers.

Excellent Job on Crocodile Island

When he reached our boat, he said, "3 for 100." After Tito H bought the drinks, I began talking to Mr. Coconut Man. I asked him whether he was afraid of his job, to which he answered "NO" with a smile. When asked how long he has been selling coconuts, he said, "Noong 12 pa ako." (Translation: Since I was twelve.) When I asked him about his present age, he said, "18." I can't believe I was older than him by around 24 years!

Here's the hardworking "manong" in action. Please press the HD button for better quality.

Courtesy of Timeless Confection YouTube Channel

Talk about a man's indefatigable spirit to survive and thrive in life! I can't help but recall these words while watching him:

"I watched a small man with thick calluses on both hands work 15 and 16 hours daily. I saw him once bleed from the bottom of his feet, a man... who taught me all I needed to know about faith and hard work by the simple eloquence of his example."  (Mario Cuomo, 52nd Gov of New York)

Amazing! 

Believe me when I say I'll never look at coconuts the same way again!

Blog on Cue: 

And It All Leads to Picturesque Puka Beach in Boracay