Old-fashioned is still in fashion

Nobody wants to be labeled as outdated, defunct, or has-been.

All of these words suggest a lack of growth or a failure to adapt.

People really exert the effort to keep up with the latest trends, whether in fashion or technology. Some people, men and women alike, have closets overflowing with clothes — piles of evidence that point to a habit of keeping up with the latest fashion. And so many people now bring around so many gadgets! It is no longer uncommon to find someone’s “basic” gadgets to include several mobile phones, a tablet, a music player, etc, etc, etc.

Unfortunately, this growing culture of steady and fast changes seems to cause people to lose sight of the good things from the past. Not everything that is old deserves to be thrown away. And in the same manner, not everything that is new is good and should be kept.  

I grew up in a household that may not have had a traditional set-up, but closely held traditional Filipino values. I’m so blessed that my mom really put her heart and soul into raising me. She was strict. She made sure we regarded everybody with respect. We practised the saying of po and opo and the pagmamano, among others.

When I was in college, like most young people, I wished to spend more time and associated more with my friends rather than my family. At that time, it seemed “cool” to be with your friends most of the time. I had a good relationship with my family, but I was just not that excited over spending time with them as compared to how much I looked forward to seeing and going out with my friends. But as I got older, I got to realize that my relationship with my family deserves extra special care, as they are the ones that really stick with me through thick and thin.

I also gained a personal relationship with God at a relatively early age which means I have more time to serve Him. Of course, it is tougher because there are certain liberties that most young people prescribe to that I don’t because of my faith.

If you are faithful to the Lord, your actions will reflect it. A natural spirit of service encourages this. We Filipinos are known for our hospitality.

Faith and complete dependence on God also stir a humble spirit. Knowing that there is someone and something bigger and more powerful than yourself nurtures humility. I also come from very humble beginnings. This keeps my feet on the ground despite the blessings I have and whatever (hopefully) better things the future holds for me.

So now, I may wear the newest clothing designs, sport the latest hairstyle, or check out the latest nightspot, but deep inside, it’s still the old, true blue Venus who grew up in the probinsya.