I READ with gusto an interesting article written by former movie actor Noel Trinidad in last Tuesday’s issue of the Inquirer simply because I can relate. Trinidad in case you don’t know was a popular comedian-actor who partnered with the late Subas Herrero in a long running TV show. (Please don’t ask me who is Subas Herrero). Trinidad made an enumeration of is “small victories” now that he is 80 years of age like he not using a cane, still has good eyesight and can still play nine holes of golf.
I am still far away from being an octogenarian but as having a dual citizenship-Filipino citizen and senior citizen- I take pride of having my own victories and I have every reason to be proud of myself. I am a multi-functional person. I still can write this article that you’re reading. Maybe you have seen me on my public affairs program on PEP-TV or the blog of Jimmy Santos on YouTube which I am the director. I am consultant- adviser of several government agencies and private companies. I package deals. I am having fellowship almost every night with friends. I am either an officer or member of highly committed organizations like the Rotary Club of Angeles, Pampanga Press Club, Capampangan in Media Inc., Monday Club and Wednesday Club. I cannot thank enough the good Lord for giving me a good life.
To live a strong and happy life one has to be passionate in everything he does. When you work, work hard. When you are having a good time, enjoy it to the max. And surround yourself with friends, real nice friends and not the toxic ones. You have to go out more often even during this pandemic but just be extra careful and observe the designed health protocols. The real enemy of a civilized society is not poverty but boredom and solitude. So true! It’s a powerful message. Since March of 2020, when government started imposing strict restrictions, many of us, particularly senior citizens were forced to confine themselves to their residences. Despite the books, television, YouTube, Netflix and what have you, still the feeling of being “imprisoned” can’t escape the mind. The next question is how do you deal with boredom?
“Our spirit is high, Sky is the limit. Our faith is much stronger than the fear you have spread. Our hope is firm that we go ahead with our lives even to the point of new normal. Our love with our fellowmen has become more solid as granite. It is a beautiful life as we stay home with our loved ones, and busy in many opportunities in life and enjoy the blessings of God.” The above paragraph was written by y classmate Rod Cantiveros and proof that the eloquence of his pen never escaped him.
Allow me to revisit what I wrote some time ago. When I am with a senior citizen groups big laughs always explode when sex exploits become the topic. Everyone has a story to tell. It is an excuse to be a doubting Thomas, but never voice your disagreement. And each time a pretty lass is passing the DOMs (darling old men) can't be restrained in their most malicious looks. Most men in their sixties never lose their appetite on women though they can no longer drill or can do the roundhouse, even with the help of viagra. But they can perform, less the acrobatics. Some don’t even need the blue pill. In short the sixties should not be caged. Go out but don’t multiply.