Telling it like it is

Life is rock and roll!!!

Okay, by the time you read this, I’m fast asleep and smiling.

What a year that was. What a roller coaster ride that was.

If there were  lessons or insights I wish to share at this point, well, I can try to be as short and interesting. Mind you, these could be boring for those who are too young to appreciate the state of mind of a guy who is close to 40 years.

1. Health and Family will always be first. Right now, both of these items are on top of my list this year. When you’re down and out, your family will always be the first to respond to your 911. And yes, don’t forget to eat breakfast in the morning. Stay in shape. I just dislocated my sternumclavicular joint, an area which we take for granted, but actually plays a big role in our movement. It’s painful and it reminds you of things you take for granted.

2. Be curious, always. Don’t stop learning. And don’t take things too personal when at work or when you’re out in the world. Knowing who you are and what you’re capable of, will always push you forward. Others will try to pull you down, even humiliate you, discourage you. But press on. Be their teacher. Be their friend, their kuya, their mentor. Be there when they least expect you.

3. Put others first. I’m a closet introvert. But sometimes, you need to get out of your comfort zone to deliver unexpected solutions. It’s been my goal in life to be a catalyst for others’ happiness, thus explains my corny jokes. Don’t be afraid to make fun of yourself. Don’t be serious. Laughter will make you more friends that you can imagine.

4. Meet people. Don’t rely on social networks too much. Go out and know people.

5. Don’t let your job define you. Sometimes, you just end up working in a job that may not be right for you. Listen to what people say about you, and get a lot of feedback. If you’re lucky, some will be honest enough to tell you what’s wrong. If you’re not getting any, then it’s time to move on.

6. Spend more time with your kids while they’re still young. They grow so fast. Next time, they will be gone. Also, if you have time, go back to your roots. Say hi to your grandparents. Say hi to your parents. Don’t forget to tell them you love them so much–although most often times, this is such a hard thing to do.

7. Keep life simple. Don’t complicate it. Be satisfied. This brings a lot of peace of mind.

8. Pursue your passion. Don’t stop writing those ideas down (I still do). If you wake up at night with so much thoughts, grab a pen and a paper, or open your laptop and type away.

9. Keep your friends close. Stop making enemies. I always am told that I’m too kind, but that’s the way I was raised. I was raised to be forgiving, to be patient, and sometimes too patient and kind that others take advantage of it (yes, I know). But as they say, kill them with your kindness. It works. But I also believe in good karma

10. One of my favorite movie quotes, which to this day, I hold on to dearly, is this, “Seize the day!” Everyday, is a blessing from God. Don’t let it go to waste. Thank God for every day, every year, and every moment in your life. There will be downtimes–but you’ll thank these moments later, as lessons will come after.

If you we’re to ask me about my wish for this year, well, I still want World Peace!  :-)