If you're a Maginhawa street enthusiast, you have probably heard of the cafe/restaurant called Van Gogh is Bipolar. While we might never know if the man behind "Starry Night" is bipolar, you can think about it in VGiB.

I went to the cafe earlier today to interview Jetro Rafael, the owner of the place, for a school homework. Before I did, I felt quite nervous because that was the first time I've ever interviewed someone who wasn't from school. As the interview was going I felt like I was just having a normal conversation with kuya Jetro (he didn't tell me how I should call him but all his employees called him kuya and I felt like Mr would be too formal). He said I was lucky to schedule an interview with him because he is almost never in the cafe and he rarely says yes to interviews. Kuya Jetro is bipolar and he found ways to make herbal medicine for his illness, therefore the organic dishes.

The place itself was what I'd say not your usual cafe. If you placed someone who loved to use Instagram, he/she would have their phone/memory full just by taking pictures of the place. Outside, there was a Mood-Healing Sanctuary. People could just go in there, buy a pot of tea and do whatever you want. They provided art materials in case you needed to channel your feelings through art. The tea, on the other hand, was something to help you with what you feel. If you feel depressed, angry, or maybe just want to have some tea and alone time.

My experience there was enlightening. The people who I spoke to there were so friendly and welcoming, I felt like we were already friends. The employees in the cafe/restaurant weren't just employees, the were Life Servers. Life Servers are ordinary people who can help others with whatever they're going through. So not only will you be able to think about life alone but you can speak to a friend about your dilemmas.

It is true about what is featured on their facebook page, that it is a mood-healing sanctuary. Although I didn't get to try any of the food or drinks, my spirits were lifted up after an emotionally heavy week. When I left I felt like the cafe was pulling me back, telling me that maybe I needed some time there.

If you want to visit Van Gogh is Bipolar, it is located in 154 Maginhawa Street.