As we mark the 40th anniversary of the declaration of martial law, it seems we have put that ignominious era behind us. And why not? We yearn to return to normalcy: rebels must simmer down and make a living, children must be allowed to enjoy the benefits of a global economy, and grandchildren must be brought into the world to give us a chance at joy.
Over the last couple of months I met two mothers who are amazing storytellers. One of them chronicles world events from the CNN Headquarters in Atlanta; the other over the last decade, in collaboration with her nine siblings, has woven the powerful and heartbreaking story of her family’s struggles during the Marcos years.