To Your New Beginning

Dear Tenten,

You know I don't say the line "I am proud of you". I choose to tell stories about you to other people. I want others to know that I am pleased about you. While I am at it, I can say I am also pleased about myself on how well you have performed. It is as if I have something to do with whatever you have attained. Maybe you are right when you said I wanted to be part of everything about you. I can't help it. I understand when you said you are pressured. It is like you are accomplishing things because of me so that I can feel good about myself. Nevertheless, truth still remains that you did well and it was you who worked hard for it, not me. This was your accomplishment!

Because I am your mother (NANAY AKO!), allow me to say my piece on your new beginning.

You are now entering the new phase of adulthood. Maybe you would want to lead your adult life your own way.  It's okay. But, I cannot overemphasize the importance of taking responsibility. Be ready for it!

I know you feel the shadow of your dad is always following you. Do not be pressured by it. Instead, think of it as a way to bring passion and dedication to wherever you go and whatever you will do. Hence, it is a must for you to be yourself. Your dad has his own style and I'm sure you can build your own, unique style, too. Yes! You can make your own footsteps, too. Make your father's footsteps as inspiration to achieve the goal. You may walk a different path but still reach the same destination. People may compare; however, use it as a challenge to do well and be noticed for your own effort.

In your work, you may encounter different personalities. You will be placed in a situation where you will have to choose on what is right and what is wrong. Choosing the right thing in this lifetime may mean you lose according to the standards of men. Still, do the right thing. Pray and ask God to lead you in all circumstances. When your capability is being challenged, think hard and pray hard. Be the best of who you are and what you can be without sacrificing your representation of the family and your faith.

You are a millenial. Use technology to your advantage. I admit I can be an opposition sometimes because I learned the traditional, old ways of your Dad. No matter how different we are and how good this modern day is, welcome any criticisms, especially those coming from me. After all, "Nanay ako!" (My favorite line to finish the argument!)

I will stay for as long as God permits me. Whether you like it or not, my parenting role does not stop here. Expect disagreements between us - nothing new; but, look forward to our compromises. Those are spices of our lives that make both of us better persons and make our mother-child relationship special! Our story continues...

Fly high ENGINEER TONI-JANSSEN P. MONSERRAT. Be proud of yourself! I'm impressed!

Lovingly yours,
Your ever makulit na Nanay!
❤️❤️❤️