ONE of the things I look forward to at the start of the year is the end of the year. Specifically that December drive home from Koronadal. That is significant for me because it symbolizes the end of a year’s work and I get sentimental and nostalgic while playing Christmas songs. It is a four-hour drive, more or less and I get to spend that time looking back at the year that was. I have been doing that the past four years but this year was different because instead of a leisurely drive, I had to drive a little fast because we wanted to attend our annual Heartspace Advent recollection. But I found the time to think of the year that had just transpired.
What did I learn this year? What happened this year? What did I see and hear this year? Many things actually.
For one, one of our sons got married. That was good and emotional. We got to cry and sing and celebrate. It really is different when of your children gets married.
What did learn this year? Several things. I learned that there are certain people you tolerate and accept and there are people that you have to stand your ground to. Otherwise they will run you over with whatever issues they have. And knowing when to accept to accept or stand takes experience.
What did I see this year? I saw Boracay for the first time and because of that I bought a hat. Actually, this year saw me buy two hats which I have never done my whole life. And I have to admit that it feels good, donning hats. It feels good doing things for the first time.
What did I hear this year? Well I heard my wife and do a recording of a song that we rehearsed valiantly so we could sing it bravely in our son’s wedding. That too was something I had never done my whole life, sing in public.
This year saw a lot of firsts. Perhaps one day I might do an album and call it Hats. Why not, right?
This year I also learned that my cholesterol level was way too high and for the first time I have to do maintenance. This year I learned that being a senior citizen has some perks and the ones that I like best are discounts for food and movies.
This year I saw and heard that it is not a matter of moving on but letting go.
And I got to hear myself not only sing but also listen to my voice that is so quiet.