At some point in our lives, we find ourselves standing at a crossroads, reflecting on the years gone by and contemplating the path ahead. For me, this moment marked the beginning of what is often referred to as a midlife crisis. This term, laden with negative connotations, doesn’t fully capture the depth and complexity of this experience. It’s not merely a crisis; it’s a profound period of self-examination, growth, and transformation. Let me share with you my personal journey through this transformative phase, in the hope that it may resonate with you and offer some solace.
I remember one evening; while driving home, my focus was shifted to the sunset. As the sky turned shades of pink and orange, a wave of sadness washed over me. The beauty of the moment was undeniable, but so was the sense of something missing. I realized that there have been changes happening in my interests and desires. The things that once brought me joy seemed mundane, and I felt an inexplicable yearning for something more. It was as if I was waking up from a long slumber, suddenly aware of the passage of time and the finite nature of life. This realization was both terrifying and exhilarating, propelling me into a period of intense introspection.
WHAT The struggle of midlife is real and multifaceted. It’s not just about grappling with the aging process or mourning lost youth; it’s about confronting deeply ingrained fears and insecurities. For me, it was a battle between my desire for change and the comfort of familiarity. I found myself questioning my choices, both past and present. Was I living authentically? Had I compromised my dreams for the sake of others? These questions haunted me, leading to sleepless nights and anxious days. I felt torn between the life I had built and the one I yearned for. One particularly difficult night, I found myself awake at 3 AM, staring at the ceiling. My mind was racing with thoughts of missed opportunities and unfulfilled dreams. In that quiet, dark moment, I realized I couldn’t go on like this. I needed to make a change, but I didn’t know where to start. During this tumultuous time, I sought solace in conversations with friends and loved ones. I discovered that I was not alone; many were facing similar challenges. Sharing our experiences created a sense of commonness and support, helping me navigate the emotional rollercoaster. It was through these honest dialogues that I began to find clarity and courage. WHO Transformation is the heart of the midlife journey. It’s about shedding old identities and embracing new ones, a process that is both painful and liberating. My transformation began with small, deliberate steps towards self-discovery and renewal. I started prioritizing self-care, both physically and mentally. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices became integral parts of my routine. Hopefully, these changes will not only improve my well-being but also gave me the strength to face my fears head-on. Pursuing passions and hobbies that I had long neglected became a source of immense joy. I started writing again, a pastime I had abandoned for quite a long time. The act of creating something beautiful from my thoughts was incredibly therapeutic, allowing me to express emotions through the words I weave. Although my professional life isn’t undergoing a significant shift as much as I hoped for, I began exploring new opportunities, enriching myself more and learning new things that aligned with my values and passions. This wasn’t an easy transition, and there were moments of doubt and insecurity. However, my goals are alive within me, and such a renewed sense of purpose kept me going. I look forward vividly to the day I would finally leave my long-term job. I’m certain that the fear of the unknown will be overwhelming, but so will the excitement of new possibilities. As I think about walking out of the office for the last time, I could imagine a mix of sadness and exhilaration. But thinking that I will be stepping into an uncharted territory, I knew I would thrive. I believe it. HOW Emerging from the other side of a midlife crisis, I realized that this journey had imparted invaluable lessons. It taught me the importance of living authentically and staying true to oneself. It’s easy to lose sight of our dreams in the hustle of daily life, but midlife offers a chance to realign with our true selves. I learned that it’s never too late to pursue new passions or make significant changes. Age is just a number, and the courage to reinvent oneself can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Finally, I understood the power of vulnerability and connection. Sharing my struggles and listening to others created bonds that were incredibly healing. We are not meant to navigate life’s challenges alone, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. IT IS WHAT IT IS As I move through the middle chapters of my life, I'm learning to see this time as a chance to grow and change for the better. It's a moment to look at our lives anew, reconnect with what we love, and build stronger, deeper connections with those around us. A midlife crisis isn't just a time of worry; it can be a fresh start, a rediscovery of ourselves. By facing our fears and welcoming new changes, we can come out stronger and more content. If you're on this journey too, remember you're not alone. Embrace the unknown, reach out for help, and believe in your power to shape a life that truly shows who you are. Midlife isn't an end—it's a chance to start anew, to rewrite our stories with bravery and kindness. Thank you for sharing in my journey. May your own path be filled with discovery, growth, and profound joy.
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Ever since I can remember, I've been the one everyone leans on. My colleagues, friends, and family— they all seem to come to me whenever they need support, advice, or just someone to lend them a hand. Initially, it felt great to be the reliable one, the rock everyone could cling to. But as time went on, this role began to feel heavy, more like a burden than an honor. Sometimes, it feels like I'm more of a resource than a person. It seems like people only check in to see what I can do for them, not how I'm doing. They come to me with their needs, and once they're met, they disappear, leaving me empty and wondering if they would do the same for me. The silence is deafening when I'm the one in need. It forces me to question the value of my relationships. Am I only appreciated for what I can give? This question hurts, leaving a lingering sense of loneliness. I've come to understand that giving shouldn't leave me feeling empty. Real relationships—built on mutual respect and understanding—are about balance. They're not transactions but shared connections where both sides show they care. Yet, I find myself always being the giver, and I have to ask myself why the balance is so off. I know I need to set boundaries. It's not about giving less but expecting a basic level of respect and consideration in return. Saying "no" or "not now" is something I'm learning to do, watching to see who truly values me for more than what I can provide. Those who truly care understand. Those who don't—well, maybe they were never really there for me. This journey to self-realization is tough. It's full of self-doubt, sadness, but ultimately, it leads to empowerment. Recognizing my worth is the first step in changing how my relationships work. I am more than a giver; I deserve to receive as well. Lately, I've felt drained from always being the one who gives. I believe my needs matter too, but it's hard for me to stop giving. I keep wondering, when will it be okay to ask for the love and support I so freely give to others? I dream of a world where relationships are truly two-way streets, and it's perfectly fine to ask for the balance I so rightfully deserve. As the sun sets and I walk alone, my thoughts drift to the paths I've walked, mostly by myself. It's not that I don't have people in my life, but when it comes to the significant moments, it's often just me. And, surprisingly, I've come to realize that this is okay. Life can be incredibly challenging, and there are moments when we must become our own heroes because no one else can step into that role for us. Those times when big decisions land heavily on our shoulders, or when we reach out for support and find only empty air—these moments have taught me the most valuable lesson: I need to plan for myself because I am the one person I can always count on. At night, the world could feel silent, and in that stillness, I often think of how much strength I have within me. I don’t need to wait for someone to come and rescue me from my doubts and fears. I am always my own rescue. Cliché, “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be”. This understanding isn't about distancing myself from others or losing trust in them. It's about the comforting knowledge that, at the end of the day, the one who will always be there for me is the person I see in the mirror. Crafting plans that rely on me means setting personal goals, ensuring my financial security, and embracing growth in my quiet, solitary moments.
But this isn't a tale of sadness—it's one of strength and discovery. Each time I've had to stand alone, I've unearthed a little more courage and resilience within myself. I've come to see that self-reliance isn't about being lonely; it's about being empowered. It's the reassuring knowledge that, regardless of what life throws my way, I can handle it. During my recent solo trip to Andorra, I hiked up a mountain trail, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. With each step, I felt more connected to myself, more capable of facing my challenges. By the time I reached the viewpoint, the view was breathtaking—not just because of the landscape, but because I realized I had climbed both the mountain and my inner doubts. I’m not perfect and sometimes, I also feel afraid, being alone in pursuing my dreams. In those moments, I close my eyes and pray for the strength and capability I sometimes doubt I possess. I hold onto the belief that there’s something profoundly beautiful in this realization. Achieving my dreams on my own isn’t just possible—it’s a testament to my incredible resilience and something I can be truly proud of. Every step I take alone is a step towards discovering the extraordinary person I am meant to be. Faith has always been a part of my life. Growing up Catholic, my parents encouraged us to be close to God. They believed, as I did, that everything is controlled and managed by one ultimate power. This belief stayed with me, even as my life took me far from my roots. When I moved to Saudi Arabia, the center of Islam, I worked with a very devout Muslim, our Director of Pharmacy. Around the same time, I married a converted Muslim man. He was deeply committed to his faith, always going for Umrah, a pilgrimage, and praying regularly. His dedication piqued my curiosity about Islam. I started reading about it, trying to understand why he was so devoted. As I read more, I felt my heart drawing closer to God in a way I hadn’t felt before.
One day, I told my boss that I wanted to go on a pilgrimage. He explained that I needed to be a Muslim to go, so I decided to convert. With the help of a Muslim organization, I went through the conversion process from Catholicism to Islam. When we were preparing for the pilgrimage, I was unsure how to pray properly. My boss told me that when I reached the holiest place in Islam, I should close my eyes and whisper to God whatever my heart truly desired, and He would listen. For many years, I had been suffering from uterine bleeding. Doctors told me that having a child would be difficult. I shared this with my husband, and we resigned ourselves to the possibility that it might take years for us to conceive. Standing in the grand mosque on the last day of Ramadan, surrounded by worshippers, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and awe. I closed my eyes, and tears streamed down my face. In that powerful moment, I whispered to God, asking for the blessing of a child. When we returned home, my bleeding continued for a while but then stopped. A few months later, I noticed changes in my body and decided to take a pregnancy test. To my amazement, it was positive. It felt like a miracle. When we saw the doctor for an ultrasound, we realized that the conception likely happened around the time of my heartfelt prayer during the pilgrimage. This experience deepened my faith and made me realize that everyone has their own unique relationship with God. I am not saying that everyone should convert to Islam; faith is indeed a very personal journey. But I am grateful for my special relationship with God. It has carried me through the hardest times in my life and continues to be a source of strength and comfort. I may not be religious in the traditional sense, but I know that God loves me deeply. His love has blessed me in ways I never imagined possible. My faith, though unconventional, is profound and unwavering. For this incredible journey and the countless blessings I've received, I am eternally grateful, and I give Him all the glory. ![]() Today, I read a touching post about a grandma patiently waiting for her grandkids to reach home through the Uber app, and it reminded me deeply of my father. My dad had a unique kind of patience. Every time one of us was late coming home from school or anywhere else, there he was, waiting. He seemed to have a calmness that only dads possess. His excitement for our school events always topped ours—every single time. With our mom working far away, it was always him at our school activities, whether it was recollections, graduations, or anything in between. I remember seeing him in the crowd during processions, his eyes tracking us the whole way. Some of our relatives used to tease us, saying he was so strict because he didn't want anyone chasing after us. Maybe they were right, but to us, he was just being protective. Every Tuesday and Thursday, like clockwork, he'd wake us up early for holy mass. More than being just a school requirement—it was his way of strengthening our faith, something he valued deeply even though he was born a Seventh-day Adventist but raised us as Catholics. Despite his tough exterior, he surprised us by quoting Bible verses when we least expected it. Those moments would always make us smile; it was a side of him that didn't match his tough dad image. He called us his princesses, and to us, he was nothing short of a king. When I moved to Manila for my studies, and later when I started teaching at a university, he’d visit me. He’d bring food, and we’d spend time together after my classes. I could see the pride in his eyes—I was one of the youngest instructors at the university, and he loved telling everyone about it. My sister wasn't left out of his caring gestures either. Working at a local bank, she'd find our dad waiting with a meal for her, ready to drive her home each afternoon. Our dad was our biggest fan and supporter, always there, always watching over us. Even now, years after he’s gone, I still feel his presence in those moments of quiet patience and unwavering support. When life gets tough, I close my eyes and remember his calm, steady gaze, his protective embrace, and the way he made us feel like princesses. His memory is always my guiding light, reminding me of the depth of his love and the strength of his spirit. Dad, you were, and always will be, our king. Happy Father’s Day, Sarge. Tuwing madaling araw, habang ang sinag ng araw ay tumatagos sa malayong kalangitan,
Nagtatanong sa sarili, isang tahimik na bulong, "Para kanino ako bumabangon?" Para sa ngiti ng aking mga anak, na ang mga pangarap ay lumulutang sa taas, Ang kanilang kinabukasan ay unti-unting nabubuksan, sila ang dahilan kung bakit. Para sa kanila, ako'y bumabangon. Sa gitna ng kalungkutan kung saan nagtatago ang mga anino, Kapag ang puso'y mabigat at ang diwa'y umiiyak, Ako'y patuloy na bumabangon para sa kanila. Sa bawat tawag sa bahay, kung saan nakasalalay ang aking mga pag-asa, Sa mga ngiting ibinabahagi at mga kuwentong hindi kailanman nagwawakas, Para sa pagmamahal ng isang ina, ako'y bumabangon. Sa mga kalye ng ibang bayan, sa ilalim ng dayuhang kalangitan, Ako'y humaharap sa bawat araw nang may matatag na tingin. Pagod, oo—ngunit sumuko? Hindi ko susubukan. Para sa mga pangakong binitawan, na aking tutuparin, Para sa mas magandang buhay, doon ako umaasa, Para sa kanila, ako'y bumabangon. Sila ang aking lakas, ang hindi binibigkas na ugnayan, Sa kabila ng mga dagat, kung saan lumilipad ang aking mga pangarap. Para sa aking puso, para sa kanilang kasiyahan, ako'y bumabangon. Sa madilim na gabi o malakas na ulan, Laging nasa isip at puso ko ang layunin Para sa kanila, para sa kanilang pagmamahal, magpakailanman, ako'y bumabangon. I remember the day vividly. It was a warm Tuesday afternoon, and tensions were high at work. I had just had a heated argument with a colleague. I was furious, my heart pounding, ready to say things I knew would hurt deeply. Just as I was about to let my anger spill over, my boss, a knowledgeable man whom I respect much, quietly took me aside. He looked at me with a calm, understanding gaze and said something that I will never forget: "Words are like seeds. If you plant kindness, you'll grow happiness. If you plant harshness, you'll grow loneliness." His words stopped me in my tracks. They were a direct reminder of the power our words hold. In that moment, I felt a wave of shame wash over me. I realized how close I was to saying something I would later regret. Anger is a powerful emotion that can cloud our judgment and make us lash out. It's so easy to let it take control and hurt those around us with our words. But once spoken, those words can't be taken back. They can leave scars that last long after the anger has faded. My boss continued, "Never say mean words when you're angry. Your anger will pass, but the hurtful words can scar someone for life. Instead, use kind words or choose to stay silent." His gentle advice touched me deeply. He just didn’t want me to avoid conflict but he was encouraging me to become a better person. I felt a mix of emotions – guilt for my angry outburst, gratitude for his wisdom, and a newfound resolve to be more mindful of my words. Since that day, his words have been my guiding light. Whenever I feel anger bubbling up, I remember his calm voice and wise words. I think of how his kindness turned my anger into reflection, and reflection into understanding. I’ve learned that silence can be powerful, especially when words might only cause harm.
This experience taught me that our words have the power to heal or hurt. By choosing to speak with kindness or staying silent when we’re angry, we can build stronger, more caring relationships. This choice not only helps our relationships but also shapes who we are. Every time we choose kindness over anger, we grow into better versions of ourselves. I wish I could share this lesson with everyone. Let's try to be careful with our words, especially when we're angry. Remember that in every interaction, we have the chance to spread kindness, understanding, and positivity. In a world that can often be harsh and unkind, what we say to each other matters more than ever. Whenever anger tries to take hold of me, I pause and take a deep breath. I remind myself of the impact my words can have, like seeds growing into something bigger. So, I choose to be kind. Because you never know, the words I say could either heal someone’s heart or break it. Why Does Everything Change When We Grow Older? As I grow older, I see how everything changes. People I thought would be in my life forever have vanished, while those I never imagined being close to have become dear friends. It's surprising and sometimes bittersweet, but it's a part of life that I’m learning to accept. I've realized that as we age, we start to save our energy for things that truly matter. We stop wasting time on meaningless connections and focus on relationships that uplift us. This doesn't mean we stop caring about others, but we become more careful about where we invest our emotions. Outgrowing people is part of this journey. It’s not easy, and it doesn’t mean we love them any less. It means we recognize when a relationship no longer helps us grow. We have the right to outgrow people who aren't growing with us, and we don't need to apologize for it. It’s a sign of our own growth and self-respect. Discovering new parts of myself has been one of the most rewarding parts of getting older. I’ve learned more about who I am and what I need to be happy and fulfilled. This self-discovery brings me closer to the person I want to be. So, if you find yourself feeling the same way, remember that it’s okay to let go. Embrace the changes and cherish the new connections that come into your life. Every change, every new friendship, and every moment of self-discovery is a step towards becoming the best version of ourselves. Life is a journey, and with each change, we grow stronger, wiser, and more loving. Don’t be afraid to embrace it. I often wonder why life seems like a long road filled with all sorts of twists and turns. Sometimes, while walking this road, it feels like everyone else is sprinting past me, holding trophies and smiling big. There were days when I used to sit by the side, wondering when it would be my turn, feeling a little lost and a lot left out. I often wonder why life seems like a long road filled with all sorts of twists and turns. Sometimes, while walking this road, it feels like everyone else is sprinting past me, holding trophies and smiling big. There were days when I used to sit by the side, wondering when it would be my turn, feeling a little lost and a lot left out. But over time, I started to see things differently. I began to understand that each of us has our own unique road to travel, and it's not helpful to compare my journey with someone else's. I used to envy seeing someone else's success— friends landing on their dream jobs, some going on fancy vacations, buying all those expensive bags and jewelries. Until I've learned to find a deeper happiness in celebrating other people's victories. Im not sure how, but it just sort of hit me one day— I realized that when I'm cheering for others, I'm adding more happiness to the world, and that joy bounces back to me too.
Being patient isn’t always easy. It’s hard to wait for your sunshine when it feels like you’re stuck in the shade. Yet, I've realized that waiting can be powerful. While I waited, I didnt just sit around. I've tried to improve myself, learn more, and get stronger. I’ve also found out that there’s a special kind of peace that comes from acknowledging our own blessings, no matter how small they might seem. Instead of looking at what others have, I’ve started to look at what I have— a loving family, good health, a job that keeps me going. These are my blessings, and they are worth celebrating. So, here's what I hold onto: every season has its reason. If this isn't the season of my grand victories, it’s my season to prepare, to support others, and to grow in quiet strength. And when someone else succeeds, I let their happiness lift me up too. In recognizing and celebrating the unique beauty of our own paths, we find that our blessings are many, and our hearts are full. Let's cherish where we are on our journeys and look forward to where we're headed with hope and a spirit of generosity. In our own story of life, in each of our own timing, every step forward, every smile, and every act of kindness makes the path worth In the heart of our company lies a group of cheerful souls who make our days brighter with their smiles and the delicious drinks they serve. Every morning, they greet us with a warm smile and a cup of something wonderful, from black coffee to latte, from lemonade to iced tea or mojitos. It's not just the drinks that make them special; it's their spirit. They manage to stay happy and spread cheer, even when times are hard. This cheerfulness has won them many friends here, bridging the gap between different cultures and making them beloved by all. Each of these amazing people has their own story, filled with dreams and challenges, yet you'll never hear them complain. They keep their troubles to themselves and focus instead on making our day a little better. Just last week, to add a little fun to our routine, I organized a simple contest for them: who could make the best karak tea. It turned into a joyful event that everyone enjoyed. I saw creativity and laughter, and for a moment, the pressures of work and life seemed to melt away. These guys may be subcontractors, but to us, they are as much a part of our company as anyone else. They teach us valuable lessons about resilience and finding happiness, no matter what. So here's to our drink-makers—our everyday heroes whose smiles are as refreshing as the teas they brew. Thank you for not just the drinks you make, but for the warmth and joy you share with us every day. |
HappinessMy happiness comes from the people who believe in me and inspire me every day. They are my strength.
Life is a beautiful, fleeting journey. Despite the challenges, I see beauty and miracles everywhere. Growing up was tough, but my Dad was my beacon of hope. He taught me to believe in myself and to embrace life's limitless possibilities. His lessons and spirit guide me still. I lost him years ago, but I carry his memory everywhere I go, hoping he's proud of me—as I've always been of him. I promised him I'd live life to the fullest. Now, I find joy in writing, traveling, and simply living, cherishing each moment. This, I believe, is something we all should embrace: finding happiness in every part of life. ![]() Archives
July 2024
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