Dear mindful readers,
Happy birthday to me!
Last Thursday, my diligent and hardworking staff gave some sort of a tribute to celebrate my reluctant entry into dual citizenship. Geez! I really am ancient! 😂 Truly, my heartfelt gratitude goes out to each one of them who have stayed with me for almost two decades despite available vacancies across the Agency where we belong. They set aside inferiorities to make me feel loved and appreciated, causing tears to swell up and fill my handheld tissue to the point of tearing it to a zillion pieces.
Yesterday was different though. It was magical! Magical in a way that apart from celebrating my dual citizenship, two of my dedicated staff landed major awards. Another was, apart from being recognized for loyalty in service to the Agency, was also elected to the highest position in one of the most prominent media organizations in the region. I thank God, the forces of the universe, my guardian angel, my deceased father and ancestors who must have been guiding me because despite the mountains of struggles and challenges I have overcome and continue to face as I deliver my tasks and responsibilities as a public servant, I have remained strong and steadfast with my convictions.
That warm and happy feeling, the overwhelming and proud mamshie giddiness covered the entirety of my physical, spiritual, and emotional persona.
So, apart from the priority lane, 20% discount, free hospitalization and other benefits, what insights have I to share today?
Well, as I jump with mixed feelings into the world of dual citizenship, I ask you my dear mindful readers, to bear with me as I share my personal thoughts and takeaways, having wiggled through the roller coaster phases of my life.
Becoming a “young” senior brings a wealth of insights and reflections shaped by decades of experiences.
Topping my priority list is to be more health - conscious (eyyyyyyy!) papaluin na talaga ako ni Tita Malou ! I don’t eat veggies. I only eat pork. Not much with fish dishes. No exercise. Name it 😂 Only now has valuing health care been more of a must than some random thing-a-ma-jig kinda’ thing. Acceptance is key. Tanggapin ang katotohanang I need stem cells already!
Nurturing relationships with family and “true” friends occupies second in my hierarchy of realizations. Know that not everyone who laughs with you truly cares for you, and not everyone who treats you well may not have dark intentions for you. Remember that betrayal often comes from those who we think are close to us. And since we have already filtered, removed the rotten eggs and retained the good ones in our lives, I now intend to spend more quality time with them.
Third, accept and embrace change. Isn’t it just obvious that as we age, every nook and cranny in our bodies react strongly to the force of gravity? (catch my drift?) 😉
It is common to reflect on past decisions. People often learn to let go of regrets and focus on the present and future. Just don’t fall into another goody-two-shoe ploy! Never again!
No regrets. God had a purpose for putting us where we are now. I am where God wants me to be, and I will be where He wants me to go.
At this age, I have learned the importance of financial planning and saving for retirement, as well as understanding how to enjoy the fruits of my labor.
Live in the moment and enjoy life's experiences rather than plan for the future that may or may never come.
These lessons can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life as one navigates the challenges and joys that come with aging.
Aging often brings invaluable insights and life lessons that can shape our perspectives and guide our behaviors. We also gain a deeper understanding of the struggles others face. Being empathetic can strengthen bonds and create a more supportive community.
Each life journey is unique. Insights vary with each individual based on learnings, experiences, environment and other factors.
As I navigate the remaining years of my life’s tumultuous and challenging journey, I just need to remind myself of one thing - whatever we release to the universe comes back to us a thousandfold, so be kind, be gentle, be patient.
I cry. I laugh. I mope.
Amidst everything that goes on in my own perfectly imperfect world, life has taught me to be one tough cookie!
Cheers to a new and more exciting journey!
Pray and be happy!
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