For the better

Every start of the year, it’s a common practice to make resolutions. This would be the basis for us to behave as we look forward to the good things for the entire year. And yes although it has become a way for others to just ride on what has become a yearly thing and so they are not serious in keeping track of what they have aimed for from the onset. Although there are some who regard making resolutions with so much sincerity. They make sure that everything they do is for them to become better individuals in terms of financial status, relationships, studies, and many other aspects in life.

Oftentimes I do not make resolutions for I would just be frustrated that even in the first quarter of the year there are already signs of failures and negative vibes that make resolutions an exercise in futility. In short, as if it is doomed to fail.

And so it boils down to commitments and the will to succeed because oftentimes we just take for granted those little things and yet when taken seriously they contribute to a bigger goal, a greater success. Because every success, no matter how small or big, precedes the many trials and challenges. Every success is a triumph over the question of whether or not we can do a certain task, duty, or obligation. It is a triumph over negativity, lack of confidence, and low self-image.

Once we face every challenge with so much positivity, the better persons we become. It is a good practice that as the year ends, we assess what we have done for our less fortunate brothers and sisters. We should always think that we are fortunate than others so we are in better position to help them. We have so much to be thankful for. We are better than those who were badly devastated by either man-made or natural disasters. Every end of the year has become a constant remainder as our country is always visited by typhoons and some of our brothers and sisters spent their Christmas in evacuation centers and yet they managed to celebrate the occasion with so much hope and love. Because if we dwell on the misfortunes, it will be difficult for us to help others. It is in recognizing the misfortunes of others and who need most of our help that we must be truly grateful for.

And for this year, it is my personal hope and prayer that the year is kind to all of us. More and more Filipinos would not only feel but really experience whatever economic situation our beloved country has. More and more Filipinos would experience better relationships with their families, neighbors, friends, colleagues, and other significant persons in their lives. This year may bring more blessings to the family, the very basic unit of the society, the source of love and understanding.

More specifically, I hope and pray for better acceptance and heightened support for the local arts and culture is expected from the wider community. I love to see not only a thriving but a dynamic arts and culture scene this year and the years to come.

As the popular adage teaches us that change is inevitable, we look forward to it with a positive mindset, even shifting paradigm when it calls for it. We truly embrace it for the better.