Nuggets of Wisdom from my Father-In-Law - "Travels"
June 27, 2017 at Marikina Valley Medical Center
by Eugene Martin
It is not everyday that you got the chance to meet someone from whom you would learn a lot. I always look forward to a conversation with my dad-in-law (Papang Segundino Martin). Yes, any topic under the sun, he always has his strong no-nonsense opinion. May not be the same with mine but a very good area to explore, though. Looking at the issues in another person's perspective, can be a very good brain-stimulating activity and good-values-enhancing opportunity. :-)
It is not everyday that you got the chance to meet someone from whom you would learn a lot. I always look forward to a conversation with my dad-in-law (Papang Segundino Martin). Yes, any topic under the sun, he always has his strong no-nonsense opinion. May not be the same with mine but a very good area to explore, though. Looking at the issues in another person's perspective, can be a very good brain-stimulating activity and good-values-enhancing opportunity. :-)
After another productive chat with Pang, I just felt I had seen various places in the Philippines during the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s with a Forester’s lens… such a great time travel with Pang! :-) I learned that he admired the beauty of Mindanao. He said something really nice that I failed to capture.. tsk.. tsk.. my bad... (He had side stories of relatives from the north (Ilocos) who settled in the south (Mindanao, specifically Davao).
I really admired Pang’s unquestioned dedication in the government service. I got curious and asked if he had thought of joining the private sector since he had lots of interactions with private corporations then. He mentioned that he had planned to but he was reminded of the advice of his father that if they would settle for a job, it would be best if they join and serve the government. Well, he did… a very good son, indeed!
“Eh, Pang, what has been the most unforgettable moment you had in your career?” I asked further. “I was able to go to different places.” He responded immediately. The travels associated with his work as Forester had been one the most unforgettable moments in his career in the government. He even gave me the approximate distances (in km) from one province to another.. (whew.. kwento pa lang, pagod na ako sa biyahe hehe)... some peace and security risks they encountered....and more..... I was also reminded of his earlier anecdote about the dog in their place in Palawan that happily wagged its tail every time it sees him... which brought smiles in his face.
There were side stories of people he met and places he visited... the exciting events during the trip and some experiences he shared which showed his set of values, his love for his family and his sense of integrity.
I really admired Pang’s unquestioned dedication in the government service. I got curious and asked if he had thought of joining the private sector since he had lots of interactions with private corporations then. He mentioned that he had planned to but he was reminded of the advice of his father that if they would settle for a job, it would be best if they join and serve the government. Well, he did… a very good son, indeed!
“Eh, Pang, what has been the most unforgettable moment you had in your career?” I asked further. “I was able to go to different places.” He responded immediately. The travels associated with his work as Forester had been one the most unforgettable moments in his career in the government. He even gave me the approximate distances (in km) from one province to another.. (whew.. kwento pa lang, pagod na ako sa biyahe hehe)... some peace and security risks they encountered....and more..... I was also reminded of his earlier anecdote about the dog in their place in Palawan that happily wagged its tail every time it sees him... which brought smiles in his face.
There were side stories of people he met and places he visited... the exciting events during the trip and some experiences he shared which showed his set of values, his love for his family and his sense of integrity.
So proud to be the wife of his youngest son! :-)
I can't wait to share another anecdote... hmmmm.. I think I need to share the "Health is Wealth" story next time.....
Reflection: Travelling with the noble purpose of exploring and understanding the people and culture of the place would definitely widen our perspective and deepen our respect to life and the world we live in. More so, if it is part of our chosen career / vocation. For me, travelling (especially with loved ones) strengthens my sense of connectedness and sensitivity. Realizing that any action I make would have effect on others in a positive or negative way (great or small), and that I have to choose the ones with positive effect to make a difference and eventually to be a better person.
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Reflection: Travelling with the noble purpose of exploring and understanding the people and culture of the place would definitely widen our perspective and deepen our respect to life and the world we live in. More so, if it is part of our chosen career / vocation. For me, travelling (especially with loved ones) strengthens my sense of connectedness and sensitivity. Realizing that any action I make would have effect on others in a positive or negative way (great or small), and that I have to choose the ones with positive effect to make a difference and eventually to be a better person.
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