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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.
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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. What does love really mean to you? In the rush of our daily lives, love finds ways to reach out to us quietly, often in moments we might not notice unless we're really paying attention. Have you ever paused during a busy morning to enjoy how someone made your coffee just right? Or noticed when someone really listened to you, showing they care about what you think? Maybe someone cheered you up when you were feeling low, or a friend was truly happy for you when things went well. These small acts are love's gentle way of saying, "I'm here for you." Everyone has his/her own silent language of love, often spoken through simple actions rather than words. Have you noticed the small things the people around you do just because they care? Take my dad, for example. He might not have said “I love you” much, but I vividly remember how he would come home with little treats for me and my siblings, lift me up when I was down, or quietly fix things around the house. And my mom, although far away for many years, filled her letters with so much care and guidance, each one felt like a warm hug from across the miles. My sisters, too, show their love without needing to say a word. They look after my kids, pouring out affection that words can't fully capture. Their endless patience and the joy in their smiles and hugs speak volumes about the depth of their love. My brother's love language is service and his wife affirms it. Love isn't just about the big gestures like kisses and hugs. My daughters see this when I find and return their lost or misplaced treasures, almost magically.  My friends might not always bring gifts or make grand gestures, but they're always there to listen when I need them, sticking by my side through thick and thin. Their loyalty and support tell me I’m valued, no matter the circumstances.
We often overlook these quiet acts of love, or we might feel disappointed because they're not as dramatic as what we see on TV. But what if the real essence of love is in these simple, everyday moments? By paying attention to these gentle expressions of love, we start to appreciate our relationships in a richer, more meaningful way. Love doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to be deep and true. Often, it’s the consistent, small acts done with great love that leave the biggest mark on our hearts. In this complicated world, every kind gesture, every moment of connection, and every small sacrifice for someone else’s happiness is a beautiful testament to love. By listening to these quiet messages, we deepen our relationships and broaden our understanding of what it truly means to love. Let’s keep our hearts open to all the ways love speaks to us, even in its gentlest whispers. ---------- Show your love with the enchanting allure of perfumes. Try Seventeen Scents Perfume to create a magical connection and make any moment truly special. Last night, my daughter experienced one of those unforgettable high school moments—her prom. She shared her excitement with me this morning, and her happiness was so contagious that I couldn’t help but feel overjoyed for her. She told me about her prom partner, a tall guy from the 12th grade, who made her evening quite extra special. She danced, laughed, and captured memories in photographs with her friends who made her night truly magical.  Now, as the school year wraps up and we talk about her future, the next big question looms: where will she go for senior high? She’s considering FEU in Manila, which is a great school. I even suggested she could stay with me and study in one of the few international schools here.
Deciding isn’t easy, and I see her struggling with these choices. It’s a challenging time for any teenager—having to make decisions that start shaping their future. As a parent, I want to make all her burdens light, but some choices she has to make on her own. All I can do is support her, guide her, and be there to help her navigate through these decisions. It’s tough watching your child on the brink of adulthood, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see them become their own person. Today, during our usual video call, a simple, spontaneous question I asked to my daughter unveiled depths of thought and emotion I hadn’t anticipated. Out of the blue, I asked her, “Would you rather be a bird with wings or a flower that blooms?” I was expecting a playful or straightforward answer, something light to share between us across the miles. But her response touched a chord deep within me. She chose to be a bird with wings. Her reasoning? “Because,” she said, with a seriousness that belied her young age, “a bird with wings has the freedom to go anywhere. It isn’t confined to one place.” Her words were simple, yet they carried the weight of profound longing— for the skies, for freedom. Then she reflected on the life of a flower. “A flower might seem beautiful with its only job to bloom, but what if the environment is harsh? It struggles to bloom eventhough the soil is poor or the weather is unfriendly. And even at its most beautiful, a flower is rooted to the spot. It doesn’t get to choose where it grows or explore the world beyond.”  Her insight moved me deeply. It wasn’t just about birds and flowers. Her words mirrored our lives— her life as a young girl and mine as a parent working far away from home to provide for us. The longing in her voice for the freedom to soar high and the choice to explore resonated with my own heartaches and hopes.
I understood then, more clearly than ever, why the sacrifices I make are necessary. They are for her future, for her right to choose her path, to have the freedom that comes with having wings. In her young wisdom, my daughter reminded me of the vast skies awaiting her, of all the flights she dreams of taking. As I continue my journey far from home, I will always be reminded of the lesson she taught me today: the precious value of freedom, the significance of choice, and the deep connections that simple questions can forge. Sometimes, the most casual conversations reveal the most profound truths, connecting our hearts across any distance with the tender strength of shared understanding. Her words, so full of hope and wisdom, linger with me. They remind me of why I wake up each day, why I face each challenge—so that one day, she, too, can spread her wings and choose her sky. “To fall in love with yourself is the first secret to happiness.” - Robert Morley Life is short and full of fleeting moments. As I think about my life, all the people who had been in and out of it, I realize how important it is to love ourselves. Many times, we dream of getting love from others and forget that we can give love to ourselves.  Growing up, I had a loving family. My parents worked hard to take care of us. Even though we were not rich with material things and we were often apart as a family, our bond was strong. The love that our parents taught us stayed with me and showed me how to love myself. As an adult working overseas, I have faced many challenges. Being away from my family, meeting work targets, and losing my parents have all been tough. It’s easy to feel lonely and wish for comfort from others. But I’ve learned that the love I seek should start from within me.  Life is short, and the small things matter the most. It’s in the quiet moments alone, the small acts of self-care, and the simple joys of daily life that we find real happiness. We need to learn to love ourselves as much as we dream of being loved by others. This means being kind to ourselves, forgiving our mistakes, and celebrating our successes, no matter how small.
These moments are short but stay with us forever. It is in knowing how to value the little things that matter for they are the moments that make up our lives. Life is short, but it’s also beautiful. As we think about loving ourselves and enjoying the small moments, may we all find peace and joy. Remember, we deserve the love we seek, and it starts within ourselves. Today, while sitting in my office during a brief pause, I struck up a chat with a friend. We wandered down memory lane, questioning if we felt happier as children than the kids of today. This thought often crosses my mind, especially when I look back at how different life used to be. Back when we were young, our days were filled with boundless energy and simple joys. We would run around the neighborhood with cousins and neighbors until the streetlights came on at 6 PM. Climbing trees, jumping over fences, and playing all sorts of games that usually ended with skinned knees and elbows were our everyday activities. I still remember how my brother once almost broke his jaw when a game got a bit too rough; we just shrugged it off though as part of the fun (but of course we had a word with our Dad and a trip to the hospital for that!)
Contrast that with today’s children, whose lives seem so intertwined with digital technology. Even when they are in the same room, they often communicate through devices. It feels like they are missing out on the physical play that taught us so much about friendship and resilience. While technology has its advantages, like keeping us connected across distances and making learning more accessible, I sometimes wonder if it also takes away from the simple pleasures of being a child.
Reflecting on these changes, I feel a blend of nostalgia and hope. Nostalgic for the world we grew up in, where imaginations ran as wild as we did, and hopeful that today’s children will also find joy and fulfillment, albeit in different ways. Maybe it's about finding a balance, where there's time for screens and time for screams of laughter under the open sky. As the world changes, so do the experiences that shape our children. Yet, the essence of childhood—discovery, friendship, and joy—remains the same, just in new forms. I hope we can all encourage the little ones to enjoy all aspects of life, both digital and real, and to find happiness in both. After all, every generation has its own version of fun and adventure, and that’s what makes reminiscing so beautiful and looking forward so exciting. Today was a big day for my family back home—my oldest daughter graduated from senior high school and her younger sister moved up from junior high. I should have been there, cheering loudly, clapping, and maybe shedding a few tears of joy. But here I am, thousands of miles away, glued to a screen trying to catch every moment. I know exactly how this feels because I’ve been in their shoes. I graduated from sixth grade and then from high school, with my own mother far away in another country, working hard just like I am now. Back in those days, we didn’t have all this technology. My mom in KSA and us in Philippines would wait weeks, sometimes months, to hear from each other through letters that took forever to arrive. Each word was precious, each faded photograph a treasure, because sending them cost so much.  I often think about how hard it must have been for my mom, how her heart must have ached to be away from us. There was no way to make a quick call or send a message saying “I miss you” or “I’m proud of you.” But despite all that, her love always reached us, quiet and steady, across the miles. Now, even with all the ways we can connect instantly, I find myself wondering about my daughters’ feelings on their special day. Did they look out into the crowd wishing I was there? Did they feel that pang of sadness amidst their joy? Seeing them today, so grown up and stepping forward into new chapters of their lives, filled me with pride but also a deep, unshakeable longing to be with them. I wanted to hold them, to tell them right then and there how proud I am, how they mean the world to me. Every milestone they reach is a reminder of why I’m here, so far from home—working not for myself, but for them, to give them chances and opportunities I never had. But it doesn’t make missing these moments any easier. It’s a sacrifice that weighs heavily on my heart, a choice that comes with its own pain and regret. To my dear daughters, if someday you read this, know that my heart was with you every second today. I may not have been there to throw my arms around you, but in every cheer, every applause that filled the air, my love was whispering alongside, just as strong, just as proud. To other parents out there, feeling the ache of distance, let’s remind ourselves why we do this. It’s for those smiles, those achievements, for the futures we dream of for our children. And hold onto the hope that soon, we’ll be celebrating together—not just through a screen, but in person, feeling the warmth of a hug, the joy of being close. And though today I celebrate from afar, I dream of all the tomorrows we will share. Each day apart is hard, but every reunion will be sweeter for it. This journey of being an OFW is tough, made of sacrifices and silent tears, but it is also built on love—a love that knows no bounds, no distance, too great to overcome. As I close this chapter of today, I look forward to the day when distance is just a word, not a barrier, and I can be there to share in every joy, every success, every moment that matters, together. I love you girls and thank you for making me proud.  In our busy lives, it's easy to forget the importance of being kind. Every day, we meet many people, and each one of them has their own problems. Some people seem to handle their struggles better than others, but we all have our battles. This is why it's always best to be kind to everyone. Everyone Has Their Own Struggles Behind every smile and every friendly chat, there's a story. Some stories are happy, but many are filled with pain and hardship. The truth is, we never really know what someone else is going through. A coworker might be grieving a loss, a friend could be struggling with depression, or a stranger might be facing money problems. These hidden battles shape how we act and feel. When we remember that everyone we meet is carrying some kind of burden, it becomes easier to be kind and understanding.  Different Ways of Coping People handle their struggles in different ways. Some seem to bounce back from problems easily, while others find even small setbacks very hard. This range of resilience doesn't change the fact that everyone has their own difficulties. Understanding this helps us avoid judging others. Just because someone seems to be doing well doesn't mean they aren't hurting inside. On the other hand, those who visibly struggle might be dealing with much bigger issues than we know. Kindness helps us support each other, no matter how well someone appears to be handling their problems. Kindness: The Right Thing to Do At its heart, kindness is about recognizing that we are all human. It's a simple but powerful way to make the world a better place. When we choose to be kind, we show that we care about others. Kindness doesn't have to be a big deal. It can be as simple as a smile, a kind word, or offering to help. These small acts can make a big difference in someone's day, and they are often remembered long after.  The Ripple Effect of Kindness One of the best things about kindness is that it spreads. When you are kind to someone, they are more likely to be kind to others. This creates a chain reaction of good deeds that can improve our communities and the world.
In a world where everyone has their own struggles, choosing to be kind is not just nice—it's necessary. It helps us connect with others and creates a more caring and supportive world. So, next time you meet someone, remember that they might be dealing with something tough. Choose kindness. It's always the right thing to do. |
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. 
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