
The Lost Planet
By Iker Sosa Medina

29 Jul, 2023

On the outer edges of our Solar System, spinning majestically in the endless expanse, resides a petite celestial body named Pluto. Once declared a planet, later reclassified as a dwarf planet, its mythology is as intriguing as its journey in our cosmos.

Now, let's tweak things slightly for the purpose of our riddle. If one were to take away the letter 'l' from Pluto, we're left with 'puto'. But what does 'puto' mean?

'Puto' is not an English word so let's translate it. In Spanish, 'puto' is a derogatory term. However, in the Filipino language, it holds a completely different, and much more pleasant, meaning.

In Filipino, 'puto' is a type of steamed rice cake, often served as a dessert or snack. This delicacy, sweet and fluffy, is a beloved part of Filipino culture, much like Pluto is loved in the astronomical world.

Now, let's dive a bit deeper into the story of 'puto', the Filipino delicacy. Steeped in tradition and community, 'puto' has a rich history that reflects the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people.

The process of making 'puto' is simple yet time-consuming. It requires patience and precision, similar to the meticulous calculations astronomers undertake to study celestial bodies like Pluto.

The ingredients used in 'puto' are humble and easily available, including rice, sugar, and coconut milk. This is reminiscent of Pluto’s description - a simple, cold, and small celestial body, but captivating nonetheless.

'Puto' is often made for special occasions in the Philippines, akin to how Pluto grabs special attention whenever there's a conversation about our Solar System.

'Puto' is also a symbol of togetherness in Filipino culture. Similarly, Pluto's reclassification brought together the science community to redefine the meaning of a 'planet'.

Just as Pluto is part of countless childhood memories as the ninth planet of our Solar System, 'puto' is associated with nostalgic memories of home and family for Filipinos.

Both Pluto and 'puto' might be small, but they hold a special place in the hearts of those who cherish them. Their small size doesn't diminish their significance in any way.

The story of 'puto' and Pluto reflects the beauty of cultural and scientific diversity. It's fascinating how one letter can bridge the gap between Filipino cuisine and astronomical science.

Additionally, both 'puto' and Pluto serve as reminders that there is always more than meets the eye. Dismissed as simple or insignificant, they both contain worlds of depth and importance.

The humble 'puto' and the demoted Pluto might seem disconnected, but their stories are entwined by more than just a linguistic twist. They are similar creations of nature and human tradition.

They are testaments of our endless quest for knowledge and understanding, be it in the kitchen or in the cosmos. They celebrate the uniqueness of every creation, regardless of size or status.

Pluto, with its unconventional orbit and icy heart, and 'puto', with its simple ingredients and rich taste, both resonate with originality and diversity. They challenge norms and redefine expectations.

Ultimately, the story of 'puto' and Pluto underscores the beauty of exploration - of flavors, of cultures, of celestial bodies, and of the endless mysteries the universe holds.

As we unravel the stories of Pluto and 'puto', we can't help but marvel at the extraordinary links hidden within the ordinary. We are reminded of the power of curiosity and the joy of discovery.

The journey from Pluto to 'puto' demonstrates that a single letter can catapult us from the majestic cosmos to the heartwarming traditions of a tropical archipelago. It's a testament to the interconnectedness of our world.

So, from the celestial realm of Pluto to the earthly delights of 'puto', our riddle has taken an intriguing journey and offered a glimpse into the wonders of astronomy and culture.

The 'puto' and Pluto remind us that there's beauty in simplicity, value in redefinition, and charm in the seemingly insignificant. In essence, the mystery of 'puto' and Pluto is truly representative of our pursuit of knowledge.

This journey of exploration invites us to keep an open mind, to embrace diversity, and to cherish the simple joys of life - whether it's enjoying a delicious treat or gazing at the starlit sky.

The intertwined narratives of 'puto' and Pluto serve as a reminder that we are part of a complex and beautiful universe, filled with tales waiting to be discovered, and connections waiting to be uncovered.

As our riddle comes to a close, remember - next time you look up at the night sky, let Pluto remind you of a humble Filipino dessert, and let it inspire curiosity about the vast universe that we are a part of.

The riddle of Pluto and 'puto' ignites the joy of learning, of understanding diverse cultures and celestial bodies. It offers a unique perspective to view our world and its wonders, the seen and the unseen.

What seemed like a simple change of a letter from "Pluto" to 'puto' has unfolded such a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and wisdom, showing us the wonder that lies in exploration and curiosity.

From a meek rice cake to a far-off celestial body, the connection seems improbable, yet it beautifully illustrates the boundless potential of language, curiosity, and the human drive for discovery.

The riddle of 'puto' and Pluto is a testament to our collective fascination with the universe - within us, around us, and beyond us. It urges us to keep exploring, keep wondering, and continue our joyous journey of learning.

As you embark on your own journey of discovery, find joy in making connections, cultivating curiosity, and exploring the universe. Always remember, within the simplest things often lie the grandest of stories.

So, the next time you come across a word, a name, or a term that you don't understand, delve deeper. You never know, you might discover a 'puto' in a 'Pluto'!

To summarize, our journey from 'Pluto' to 'puto' has demonstrated the power of curiosity, the importance of exploration, and the impact of a single letter. These stories remind us to cherish the unique and unexpected connections all around us.

Just like the 'puto' brought warmth and joy to countless homes and Pluto intrigued many astronomers, inquisitiveness brings richness to our lives. It prompts us to challenge the ordinary, to dig deeper, and to step into the extraordinary.

Our riddle of 'puto' and Pluto concludes here, leaving behind an inspiring saga that celebrates the joy of discovery and the beauty of interconnectedness. It encourages us to remain curious and appreciative of the universe's wonders.

Each time you gaze at the night sky or savor a sweet delicacy, remember the riddle of 'puto' and Pluto. Let it continue to spark your curiosity, fuel your imagination, and inspire your adventures into the unknown.

So, always be ready to explore, to question, to learn, and to discover. Embrace the 'puto' in Pluto and cherish the extraordinary journey of learning that ensues. Never stop being fascinated by the wonders of the world around you.