According to wikipedia, Life Begins at 40 is a self-help book with the general thrust that, given the current conditions of the world, one could look forward to many years of fulfilling and happy existence after age 40, provided that one maintained the proper positive attitude. As I celebrate my 40th, it's not just about looking forward but looking back to many years of fulfilling and happy existence.
It may sound cliché but there’s nothing more I could ask for, as I reach the age of life begins… God has been very good to me. I feel so
blessed. He granted all my prayers. Where I am now, especially my career was
because of Him. It has not been an easy journey but every rugged road I passed
through was all worth it.
I successfully crossed my college days with an allowance
just enough for my needs and nothing extra for dining-out or watching a movie
but with the end goal of completing my studies, earn a degree and find a job, I
pushed through with whatever little I had. Eight months after getting my
university degree, including review and licensure examination, I found a job.
Barely 2 months in my job, I got my license as a Social Worker. My first job
led to another one and I was never unemployed since then.
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| At the strike of midnight...thanks to someone for the effort |
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| During one of my field monitoring trips in Zambia |
All these jobs molded me to who I am personally and
professionally. I was lucky to be given the opportunity to perform my best and
excel in whatever I do. Over and above doing my best, I enjoyed and still
enjoying the work that I do. My career direction was very clear, and the whole
universe conspired for me to get it. I was able to work overseas, in five
countries actually! get an INGO employment without any placement fee and
without undergoing the normal recruitment process from DOLE-POEA. Being in my current position is already a
bonus because what I wanted was a paid job in the development sector only. Getting
a secured job led to other dreams getting realized.
Before reaching 40, I was able to travel to places I wanted
to visit both abroad and in the Philippines, be it through official or personal
trips. There is still plenty in my bucket list but seeing those places was
already so much to be thankful for. Another dream realized was traveling with
mama (my mother) overseas. There’s nothing more fulfilling than taking your
mother on a tour overseas.
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| Trip to Singapore with mama |
Love life has never been perfect. After a few attempts of being in a
relationship, I finally found the best fit for me. Indeed good things come to those who wait.
The 40th celebration of my birth was one of the best. It was not
just a celebration of my birth date but a celebration of life. Thanks to those who have been with me in this
journey and to those who would still be with me as I continue this journey.
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| Celebrated my 40th at Burubudor |
