Dreams from the past, at 50

I just turned 50 last April. I feel old, excited yet uneasy with the thought that the aging process is inevitable. Truth to tell, nowadays I experience aging-associated ailments like poor eyesight, high blood pressure, sleeplessness, obesity, arthritis, among others. Ten years from now, I will be a senior citizen. And years thereafter, I picture myself patiently waiting for the mercy of God to bring me to eternal life.

The old aphorism “time flies when you are having fun” is indeed true. Looking back, I started my goal-motivated life at an early age. I was appointed college dean at the age of 18; I finished my master’s degree when I was 20 and became a municipal councilor at the age of less than 21. A priest-friend described me as a “young man in a hurry.” I enjoyed my younger years. I was full of big dreams like becoming mayor of my hometown, governor of my province, a senator and even president of this country.  All these dreams remain in the realm of stardust in heaven.

One of my four children is a college graduate and is now working. Two are still in college and one in high school. I guess it is a part of getting old when I, together with my wife Lalaine, sit back and think about the future I wish for my children and the dreams I have for them as their father. I dream that they will have a happy life. I dream that my children will remain loving and respectful—to love life and to respect authorities and the environment. I want them to serve and lead the communities they will belong to, to be sensitive to the needs of those who are marginalized and to share the saving gospel of Jesus to everyone they meet through their words and deeds.

When I reach 60, God willing, I will be thinking of my retirement options.  Of course, to remain at home like a frail-looking man in a rocking chair is not an option.  Probably, I will go to law school and realize my dream of becoming a lawyer. Or perhaps, when time and opportunity permit, I will content myself writing for a major daily like the Inquirer. Best, I might be doing the role of a grandfather to my grandchildren.

I accept that I am not getting any younger. However, there is nothing wrong with getting old. My retirement years will be my golden years. I am excited to live more productive years after my 50th birthday.

—REGINALD B. TAMAYO,

assistant city council secretary,

Marikina City