The 25 Peso Lesson: What a Simple Stick Taught Me About Value

The air was thick with dampness as I clung to the narrow, slick path edging the steep rice terraces. My heart raced as I clung to the narrow path edging the steep rice terraces. The damp air made the stone steps slick, and my fear of heights sent that familiar cold rush through my legs. I gripped the simple stick in my hand - the stick I’d almost refused to take. Without it, I might have turned back long ago. 

It all started about an hour earlier at the entrance to the trail leading to the UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces of Batad in the Philippines. Jean, our guide, gestured to a bundle of walking sticks near the entrance. “You can take one of these,” he said casually. 

Laurence and I exchanged a quick glance. A stick from a tree for 25 pesos?? – about 35p? It felt unnecessary, like a token tourist charge. But not wanting to seem dismissive (and feeling a little urge to support a local business), we each picked one up and began our trek. 

As we climbed, the terraces revealed themselves in all their glory – an amphitheatre of green fields and shimmering water, with farmers tirelessly preparing for planting season. It was more beautiful than any photo could capture. Then Jean pointed across the valley to a path that hugged the edge of the terraces. “We’ll be walking over there,” he said. 

My stomach dropped. The path was so narrow it seemed to disappear into the mountain. The steps were steep, the edges slick, and I could feel the weight of my fear creeping in. Suddenly, that simple stick I had almost dismissed became invaluable. 

It wasn’t just a stick anymore. It was balanced on uneven ground, stability on the narrow ridges, and the confidence to keep moving forward despite my fear. What I thought was just a piece of wood turned out to be the key to fully experiencing one of the most awe-inspiring places I’d ever visited. 

That stick became a powerful symbol for me—a reminder of the value we often overlook in the simplest things. And it made me think about the services we offer through our group of companies. 

When Laurence and I founded Art of Clean in 2005, our mission was simple: to provide the most outstanding service experience ever. Over time, this mission grew into something much bigger – a commitment to helping people care for their homes, floors, and even the items they hold dear. 

This ethos extends beyond Art of Clean. Through Art of Flooring, we help clients transform their homes with beautiful carpets, bespoke parquet flooring, and luxury vinyl tiles that bring spaces to life. At Ultimate Floorcare, we equip contractors with the tools, machinery, and expertise they need to deliver outstanding results for their own clients. Through Farthings Cambridge and Trumpington, we protect and restore fine garments, beloved curtains, and delicate fabrics. 

Much like that walking stick, these services might initially seem like optional extras. A carpet protector, a rug underlay, a premium floor finish, or re-lining your curtains when you bring them in for a clean, or a protective wedding dress box to store your newly cleaned wedding dress in after Farthings cleaned it for you might feel unnecessary. But their value becomes clear when you see the difference these small additions make – extending the life of your carpets, preventing slips or ensuring your wood floors look stunning for years, preserving what is precious.  

Halfway through the trek, I noticed another tourist navigating the same narrow path I was on, but without a walking stick. His fear was evident as he clung to the edge, struggling to maintain his balance. He looked like he might turn back at any moment. That image stuck with me. It reminded me of the homeowners or contractors who, without enough information, dismiss professional advice or opt for a cheaper alternative without understanding the long-term impact. 

I’ve seen this firsthand. A few years ago, we quoted Steve just outside Newmarket for sanding all the wood floors in his home. He decided to have just two rooms done with us and hired a cheaper contractor for the rest. He called us back to fix the other rooms six months later, frustrated with the poor results. By then, the cost was higher than if he’d trusted us with the whole job in the first place. 

Or take Gary, who asked us to clean his kitchen tiles instead of replacing them. When the results weren’t what he hoped for, we ended up replacing the floor later. Beneath the tiles, a water leak had caused damage that no amount of cleaning could fix. His new floor was stunning, but getting there took an extra step. 

Whether trekking the terraces or making decisions about your home, the right guide and tools can make all the difference. When someone makes a recommendation, take a moment to ask: 

  • How will this help me? 
  • Why is it important? 
  • What difference will it make in the long run? 

These open questions can empower you to make informed choices that truly serve your needs. 

As I reflect on this trip, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. At Art of Clean, we’re not just about cleaning floors or selling products. We’re about guiding you to make the best choices for your home, your floors, and your furnishings. 

Whether it’s a trek through a mountain trail or maintaining your home, having the proper support can transform the experience. That’s what we’re here for – to provide the expertise, care, and trust you need to make your space the best it can be. 

Warm regards from the Philippines, 

Pierre de Wet 

 

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For further advice or information on our Carpet and Soft Furnishing care, please do not hesitate to contact the Art of Clean team on 01223 901551 in Cambridge. Our services include Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, oriental and area Rug Cleaning, Curtain Cleaning, Patio, and Driveway Pressure washing, Leather Cleaning, Stone and Tile Floor Cleaning, and Wood Floor Sanding and Restoration. We also supply new flooring and carpets through our sister company Art of Flooring. Farthings Cambridge provides our Dry-Cleaning service

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