When you reach the age when there is more to look back to, you tend to evaluate which of the things you have experienced gave you important lessons that are worth keeping. What is important?
I have learned that it is important to have many friends and acquaintances, but you can keep only a few of them as close friends. Those whom you can rely on at the worst times of your life are worth keeping. But that does not mean that you will not extend a helping hand to those who are not close to you.
I have learned that it is important to have friends and acquaintances who know people in high places. (You know what high places are!) They come handy at some times in life.
I have learned that it is important to have friends and acquaintances who have money. In times of financial difficulties, having friends who can spare some extra cash is a life saver.
I have learned that it is important to have money. Having money in the bank or in a safe place is as important as having friends who have money. Saving a part of your monthly income is as important as well as keeping safe any centavo in excess of your budget.
I have learned that it is important to be honest with your self, to accept what you really are and to try to improve yourself, to reach self fulfillment.
I have learned that it is important to have a family. It's important to recognize your roots and to be at peace with your children, siblings and your parents. They are there for you, no matter what happens, as you are there for them.
I have learned that it is important to have a true companion, with whom you can be yourself, with whom you can share the laughter and the tears, with whom you can share your innermost fears and feelings. Someone you can trust and respect and who treats you the same way. Someone who loves you for what you are, and who supports and encourages you to be what you can be.
I have learned that it is important to have faith; Faith in yourself, in humanity, in other people.
I have learned that the challenges we face today, will be gone tomorrow, and will leave us stronger and wiser.
I have learned that it is important to have faith in God. Nothing is impossible when you have faith in God. Entrust everything to God and everything will come out for your own benefit.
I have learned that you have to be kind to yourself. If you do not love yourself, nobody else will do. You have to give time for yourself, to enjoy doing what you want to do, to pamper yourself, to be happy.
I have learned that working hard towards a good cause will not give you honor and respect. It could get you into trouble with some people with vested interests. And you could suffer for your good deeds.
I have learned that the balance of the scales of justice can be manipulated to tip to the other side, and that justice takes a peep out of the blindfold to see who bids higher to tip the balance.
I have learned that not everything you read in the newspaper or you hear in other communication media is true. That responsible journalism is very rare. Money speaks louder than truth.
I have learned that a person and his reputation could easily be destroyed through mass media by irresponsible people who have money or who have access to money.
I have learned that God does not let you down, especially in times of trouble and hardship. You just have to trust Him and learn to listen to the wisdom of His words and judgment.
