Few
days from now, I’ll be celebrating my first birthday! Yes, I mean, the first
anniversary of my second life. It’s been a year since I was diagnosed of a
disease which taught me a lot of life lesson, at this very young age. But
thanks to the grace of God, I just received the result of my latest whole body
scan which showed that it’s all clear. I won the fight!
Since
then, I became a different person. I became “too much”. To those who have known
me for a long time, I’m sure, you observed some of these changes when we had a
chance to get along. Well, recently, I just colored my hair, red. A lot of
people asked why. And I always responded, “well, just for a change”. So, here’s
the reason behind the red hair. It actually represents my extremities, my bravery,
my courage and being “too much”. After all, I believe there is nothing wrong in
being too much. To show too much care, too much affection, too much emotions
and too much love. Though you make yourself vulnerable of being hurt, there’s
nothing to regret about, because at the end of the day, you can proudly say to
yourself, “I did not hold back. I gave all I’ve got”.
When
I had a chance to live again, I realized, that the saying “Life is short” is
true. Before, I always taught I had a lot of time to do the things I love, so I
had a tendency to procrastinate. This is the reason why, after the surgery, I
pursue and strive for the things I really love. I invested my time and effort
to relationships, people, ministry, family, career-growth and leisure. Thus, my
life did not revolved in work alone, which for a period of time, ate up all my
attention and energy.
Last
Sunday, I spent time alone with myself just to breathe and reflect. Here are
some of my realizations which I wanted to share with you:
1.
It is never too late for new beginnings.
Some
chapter will end, but eventually, a new one will definitely start.
2.
Forget the past but remember its lesson. Live in the present and plan for the
future.
3.
It might not always a good time. Situations are worst than what we are expected.
But even though sometimes you feel that life knocks you down, be still, and
always hope and pray for the best.
4.
Don’t expect too much from other people. In this case, you are limiting the
chances of getting hurt and increasing the chances of surprises.
5.
Your family will never leave you, no matter what. Treasure them and spend more quality
time with them.
6.
Don’t drown yourself with too much problem, because we have a God who walks in
the water. Learn to trust Him.
7.
Always find an opportunity to improve your talent and skills.
8.
Learn to say NO.
9.
Don’t be too timid. Let them know who you are and don’t live with other people’s
expectations.
10.
Take care of our nature. It’s one of the best gifts from God.
11.
Move forward from people or situations which physically or emotionally break
your spirit and change the kind of person you are.
12.
Give up on things or even people who are not worth fighting for.
13.
Fight for the things or people whom you love and who are worth it.
14.
Know the difference between number 12 and number 13.
15.
Know when to be kind and when not to tolerate other people.
16.
Focus on the positive side; even if it’s hard to see that. Always carry a
smile!
17.
Be passionate in everything you do.
18.
Take care of your health. Eat healthy food and exercise.
19.
Don’t focus on what you don’t have, but capitalize on what you have. Create
your own identity and don’t be a replica of someone.
20.
Don’t fall in love easily. Guard your
heart.
21.
Be wise and know when to take risk. (Before, I used to say, “don’t be afraid to
take risk”)
22.
Handle your finances wisely.
23. Lessen your time browsing your social
media accounts, but spend more time in meaningful conversation.
24.
Love, patience and wisdom. Always bring these three wherever you go.
25.
Know your worth! You are wonderfully made.
Life
has so much to offer! It is okay to feel bad and to be emotionally broke
sometimes. That’s part of life spices. As mentioned in one of my favorite
books, you will never appreciate joy, if you did not experienced pain. Yes,
pain demands to be felt, so as the grace and love of God. Always carry a light
and happy heart! :) Problems will all pass, trials will surely
end. And they will come back again, eventually. But we always have a choice on how
to respond. And I hope, our response is always based on our values and
character, on what we have learned and experienced, and on how we want the
future will be.
