World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly July 28, 2025:
The Golden Years of Life with the Family
* The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly is celebrated annually on the fourth Sunday of July, established by Pope Francis in 2021. The theme for the 2025: Theme: “Blessed is the one who does not lose hope.”
l. Aging Gracefully2. Success in family life is key to happiness, unity and peace.3. In Search of Meaning in the Golden Years of Life.4. Letters to Our Children and Grandchildren on Recollection Day5. Life Begins at Retirement
1. Aging gracefully
20 Philosophies of Ageing Gracefully
Dr Abe V Rotor
“Aging is the knowledge and maturity is the wisdom.” ― J. Tisa
1. Ageing like good wine; it becomes mellow with age. But only good wine becomes mellow with age. And the longer ageing is, the better is the quality of the wine. We can compare it also with wood. “A seasoned timber never gives (up).” A seasoned teacher is wise.
Dr Abe and Mrs Cecille Rotor are proud
and happy parents and grandparents
2. Ageing is like knowledge – distilled into wisdom. It’s the ripening of fruits on the tree. Knowledge is not all useful; it leaves a lot of wastes. Which I call infollution (information pollution). Like the so many flowers and developing fruits of a huge mango tree, those that fall are useless knowledge; those that do not ripen are knowledge that can’t stand by themselves. Only those that remain full and ripe at the end are like wisdom. Wisdom is tested by timelessness and universality.3. Old age is harvesting what you planted in youth. The man is the child of yesterday. Start early in life to plant the seed of success, more so, the seed of service. Monuments are not built for no reason at all. And even without a monument a good deed is monumental in the hearts and minds of those you serve and those who believe in you – especially those you have changed their lives.
4. Ageing physically and physiologically - this is inevitable. But don’t let the mind and the heart age prematurely and uselessly. Like faculty, practice makes them alive and full. Reason, thoughts, imagination, love, compassion should not go to waste by chronological age.5. The child in you must always live. That Little Prince that rules over the grownup in you that says “a matter of consequence is not only those that are urgent and important,” is also preserving the ideal. Idealism must live together with realism.6. There are those who are late bloomers; they bloom with age. Catalyze the blossoming of the beautiful things – how late they may come in life. It is better to bloom in old age than to blossom early – and the blossom just fades away. You’ll even regret it because it could mean to you as failure.
7. In old age don’t lose your trophies and medals - because of one false move, worst, if deliberate. Or because of a persistent habit you thought you can get away with even in old age. There is nothing more regretful if you fall into disgrace in old age – you don’t have a second life to amend for it.8. Hold your horses. Stop, look, listen. Getting older adopts “slow but sure” attitude towards situations and decisions. “Quick to think, but slow to act,” may be appropriate in old age. That is why in traditional societies, decision makers are old people, village elders.
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Invention knows no age limit
Dr Domingo Tapiador (right) former FAO official, and the late Mr Dell H Grecia (center) veteran journalist, and author, examine a jeep-ferry model for Laguna Bay invented by Dr Tapiador.
“Aging is the divine and maturity is the blessing.” ― J. Nedumaan
9. Make your assets grow for others, as you prepare to leave the world. Have the philanthropic heart. You can’t take your riches to your tomb. The Egyptians never did. The young pharaoh Tutankhamen left his belongs for the afterlife in his tomb, now in the Egyptian Museum. . Economics does not work well with each one of us holding a treasure chest and locking it up. Imagine if the world is dominated by Madoff et al - even with their generosity.10. Older societies are more peaceful than younger societies. Make peace as you grow older. Old men don’t go to war. It is the brave who dies young. “Where have all the flowers gone?” speaks of the youth cut down in their prime. All wars – ancient, religious, political – the young is the sacrificial lamb. People as they grow older can’t simply be made easy tools for power and greed.
Jules Verne, author of science fiction novels (Journey to the Center of the Earth, Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea, Eighty Days Around the World) lived to a very ripe age. Rip van Winkle, character of the short story of the same title by Washington Irving, slept for twenty long years. When he woke up the world had greatly changed, and did not even know who he was, (Photo credit: Internet, Wikipedia)11. Expanded family ties; three generations not in a row, but in a chain. For the first time in the history of man that three generations live under one roof. And soon four generations - as longevity increases. While in the city the family is getting small, agrarian families are expanding because of longer life span.12. Scientific and technological thrusts are toward aging, longevity: rejuvenation, on-site cloning of tissues and organs, ergonomics (designing tools and materials that fits well to the comfort of the user) - geriatrics, gerontology (all about the science and caring of the aged.)13. Extension of retirement, active retirement – this is the trend today for old people. Soldiers become security guards; teachers become professor emeritus, executives as consultants, professions doing odd jobs. Age of retirement is not after all boring. So when does one really retire?14. Foster, adopt, and have the needy, the homeless, the orphaned, the abandoned as your own children especially if you are childless. Even then, by the time you are very old, your children shall then be on their own. Be like Brad Pit and Angelina Jolie who have adopted children of different color. Sponsor scholarships for the deserving but are unable to pursue their studies.15. Resurrection and immortality are myths. Humans will always remain mortals. More than a hundred corpses of rich Americans are in cryonics tanks waiting for the time to resurrect them. DNA extracted from cadavers and human fossils will never make a living replica of the departed or deceased.Old man (Spencer Tracy) in Ernest Hemingway's Nobel Prize winning novel, The Old Man and the Sea. (Photo credit: Internet, Wikipedia)16. Life cycle biologically - that is a universal given to everything, living or non-living. But with man’s rationality we can plot our life cycle, so with socio-economic matters. The late Justice Secretary Ordoñez wrote a book, Life Cycle. He said the inevitable is biological, but the way we live our lives, is within much under our control and will. “Men choose to live long which they have no control of, yet refuse to live nobly within their will.” So said the great Roman Philosopher Cicero.17. Nature is selfish within your lifetime – you care so much for those close to your genes, to the point of dying for them. But nature, after you are gone is altruistic; it distributes your genes to where they will most fit in the name of evolution through which a species should be best equipped in order to survive. We can hardly trace our family tree beyond the third generation. Where are the offspring of the pharaohs, of the King of Siam?18. Kindness is key to fulfillment; it is also the Golden Rule. “Treat an old man as you wish men to treat you when you are old,” say Geoffrey Chaucer in The Pardoner’s Tale. But be kind yourself as an old man or woman. And that kindness must be unconditional. ARK in Evan the Almighty means – Act of Random Kindness. That’s the way to change the world, so said God in that film.
Senior scientist and former professor of St Paul University QC,
Dr. Anselmo S Cabigan, in his eighties, introduces modified
methodology of plant systematics.
19. Don’t just pass people along the way. Stop, help them, feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, visit the imprisoned, clothe the naked, comfort the lonely, and heal the sick. In Matthew 25, Christ said, “What you have done to the least of my brother, you have done it to me.” Indeed this is the most meaningful act of human to humanity. You deserve a place in heaven.
The Old Man*
- On getting married and your friends come around, and you tell to the whole world, “Here is the person I will always love.”
- On having your first child and see the image of both of you and your spouse, you say, “Look he got my eyes, and chin of his papa.”
- On having a second or third child and the economy has not improved, you say, “I haven’t any increase in pay since last year.”
- On driving the kids to school, and then attend to chores, you say, “It’s like a storm had left all things out of their places.”
- On having your in-laws around and other relatives coming for weekends, then you realize you have an extended family.
- On leaving your present job (or his) and start anew, you say, “Tighten your belts.” Even so, your family is as happy as before.
- On having a home of your own - ” Home, Sweet Home!” It has a home garden, pets, playground, a farm.
- On having family disagreements, you say, “Well, if everything is yes, maybe only one is thinking.”
- On winning an award, and say, “I owe this thing to all of you, to our family.”
- On going to other places and call up, “I’ll be home for Christmas.” It is only autumn though.
- You find time to celebrate life with your loved ones, your friends, your ninong and ninang, the members of your community – and particularly with those who have lesser in life.
- On experiencing a tragedy in the family, and find a shoulder to lean on, “Well, everyone loses a loved one at one time or the other.” And you wish the departed to find eternal happiness.
- On discovering a life threatening illness and you realize how each day passes with greater meaning and resolve, “Each day is a bonus.”
- On surviving and your hair is now gray, and the children have learned to live on their own. It’s about time they build their own families and follow their chosen profession or vocation.
- On receiving an award your children earned, and this time a sweet voice says, “This is for you, papa, mama.” A drop of tear rolls on your wrinkled face. Words are not enough.
- On being alone together, once more. The children have left, their visits become less and less frequent. It is like second honeymoon under the waning moon in the golden years of life.
- On having grandchildren. “You little one you got my nose, and chin of your grandfather’s.” “And you little one ... what’s your name, again? “
- Success in married life - yes, it is the greatest success a man or woman can achieve. It is this kind of success that makes the world go round. It is the very foundation of a family and therefore of human society.
- It is a kind of success no one is denied to aspire for, irrespective of race, creed, education, or culture. Yet it is one many people failed to achieve in spite of their wealth and power.
- Success in family life is primordial. Between career and family, many people have chosen the latter, and say with a sigh, “Well, you cannot have the best of two worlds.” And they choose family.
- Success is not always equated with money or power. But it is always associated with happiness. A philosopher once said, “Happiness is the only commodity, which if you divide it, will multiply.”
- Family life to be successful does not depend on one formula though. It thrives on new frontiers. There are always new things to discover. It is the discovery itself that is important, that makes it original and unique. And it must be always mutual. Joy to one is joy to the other.
- Success cannot be kept in a treasure box and locked. They say, “You cannot rest on your laurels.” Trophies are just symbols; they are not an end.
- Success in married life is neither abstract, nor merely spiritual. It is real. It is to be shared. It must be contagious. Let it be expressed with the children. It must be felt and celebrated in one way or the other without ostentatious show.
- It must be exemplified. It must strive to be a model. It should be able to pass as a paradigm of not only what life really is – but what it should be. “Life is the most difficult art, yet it is the finest.”
-Success in married life has an imprimatur. It leaves a mark. It shines on our epitaph after we are gone, and makes the flowers around it bloom to the fullest.
- Trials are not enough to weather success. Yes, to a courageous person, when asked, “Were you not afraid?” He simply said, “I was afraid, but I did the brave thing.” He picked up the pieces together and his family is once more solid and whole.
- Truly married life is a singular gift, it is a God given power to procreate, to bring forth new life, to enhance the perpetuation of humanity.
- As you switch on the vigil light and retire in the night, we are one happy family looking forward for the next day. For indeed, success must be lived with - day after day, season after season, year after year.
- At the end, we - all of us - come to submit our credentials to the One who made us all, Who gave us that star that guides our life, Who welcomes us at His throne when we shall then have reached it. ~
Asked what the great British Prime Minister and hero, Winston Churchill wanted if he were to be born again. He said with twinkle in his eyes looking at Mrs. Churchill. “I’d like to be Mrs. Churchill’s next husband.”
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Never in history had the world undergone an unprecedented upheaval in the way we live today. We call this age we are living in postmodernism, a term that can not be adequately explained. The late Dr Florentino H Hornedo, one of the country's leading sociologists, aptly defined it as "living tomorrow today in a free fall."
Most Rev Antonio R Tobias DD (left) is the bishop of the Diocese of Novaliches QC where three million people reside, 63 percent are baptized Catholics. Under the bishopric are 36 parishes under diocesan clergy and 23 parishes under Religious clergy. Bishop Tobias served as parish priest in Metro Manila and professor in theology at San Carlos Seminary at Guadalupe before he was assigned bishop at San Fernando La union. then to Novaliches. One of his students is another scion of San Vicente, Monsignor Cecilio Rotor, former Consul of the Vatican to Kenya and the US. Bishop Tobias traces his roots to the Tobias of Santo Domingo, and Realubin (mother) who in turn is related to several families in San Vicente Ilocus Sur. Photo: The author presents to Bishop Tobias two of his books – Light in the Woods and Light from the Old Arch.
Lola Virginia “Virgie” L. Lagasca, 98, entrepreneur, philanthropist, lives a Spartan life, the key to a long and fulfilled life. As a WWII veteran and guardian of a successful family, she keeps on going with three generations in a row, remarkably at the forefront to caution change with priceless values and tradition. Background mural - Living with Nature - by the author at his residence in Greater Lagro QC.
An age of electronics which opened the kingdom of the invisible, heretofore seen only through a keyhole, now revealing the structure of the virus and chemical molecules, including the genetic makeup of life; and lately accurate images of atomic and sub-atomic particles;
We live in an age of pandemic (COVID-19) and epidemics from HIV-AIDS, Ebola, Dengue, Bird and Swine Flu, and recently, Zika virus causing abnormal births, while ancient diseases like tuberculosis still claim millions of lives. On the other hand, modern life style claims millions of lives from accidents, heart attack, suicide, including obesity related deaths;
We induce catastrophes - earthquakes, tsunamic, tomatoes, typhoons, floods - more frequent, more destructive and varied, triggered by global warming, deforestation, desertification, pollution, Nuclear testing, rise of megapolises, excessive affluence;
An age of prohibited drugs on the loose, clandestinely channeled to millions of users worldwide, such a menace has destroyed countless young men and women, and undermined the integrity of governments and organizations;
Of test tube babies, surrogate mothers, menopausal and multiple childbirths, egg and sperm banks, organ and stem cell transplantations, which emerged into a multi-billion dollar industry amidst ethico-moral criticisms;
Of transgender, transvestite and same sex marriage; of single-parenthood, multiple union and divorce, radically changing the founding concepts and principles of the institutions of marriage, family and dignity of the human person;
The late Lola Naty R Ruelos is the mother of a priest and a nun, and three other children all professionals in their respective fields. She symbolizes the traditional Filipina mother and home maker, an entrepreneur and leader in her community - San Vicente, Ilocos Sur - even before the advent of Women Liberation Movement.
20. Facing death is a beautiful thing to one who has reached old age. It’s like a candle in its final brightness. Angelus to the old who is dying unifies the family, gathers the broken fragments of relationships. Bonding is strengthened. It’s time for the living to say the kindest things about the departed. Let the occasion be a memorable and lasting one. Dying is leaving to the living a new hope, renewed love, and a new beginning. ~
The Old Man*
He is old nowand the cataract is but a spring.He touches the spring -where have all the waters gone?Yes, he sighs with relief,his gaze takes him far away;And there the last drops of his waterfallmeet the sea;And the sea roars in gladness,roars a thousand cheers. ~
* Dedicated to the late Secretary of Justice Sedfrey Ordoñez, an adviser and friend of the author.
2. Success in family life is key to happiness,
unity and peace.
Former title: Married Life is a Gift
Success in family life is primordial. Between career and family, many people have chosen the latter, and say with a sigh, “Well, you cannot have the best of two worlds.” And they choose family.
Dr Abe V Rotor
Rotor-Sta Maria-Mendoza-Viray family in a re-union
Married life is perhaps the greatest challenge. For us who are married, truly it is most difficult to know and say, “Yes, I have a successful married life.”
- On getting married and your friends come around, and you tell to the whole world, “Here is the person I will always love.”
- On having your first child and see the image of both of you and your spouse, you say, “Look he got my eyes, and chin of his papa.”
- On having a second or third child and the economy has not improved, you say, “I haven’t any increase in pay since last year.”
- On driving the kids to school, and then attend to chores, you say, “It’s like a storm had left all things out of their places.”
- On having your in-laws around and other relatives coming for weekends, then you realize you have an extended family.
- On leaving your present job (or his) and start anew, you say, “Tighten your belts.” Even so, your family is as happy as before.
- On having a home of your own - ” Home, Sweet Home!” It has a home garden, pets, playground, a farm.
- On having family disagreements, you say, “Well, if everything is yes, maybe only one is thinking.”
- On winning an award, and say, “I owe this thing to all of you, to our family.”
- On going to other places and call up, “I’ll be home for Christmas.” It is only autumn though.
- You find time to celebrate life with your loved ones, your friends, your ninong and ninang, the members of your community – and particularly with those who have lesser in life.
- On experiencing a tragedy in the family, and find a shoulder to lean on, “Well, everyone loses a loved one at one time or the other.” And you wish the departed to find eternal happiness.
- On discovering a life threatening illness and you realize how each day passes with greater meaning and resolve, “Each day is a bonus.”
- On surviving and your hair is now gray, and the children have learned to live on their own. It’s about time they build their own families and follow their chosen profession or vocation.
- On receiving an award your children earned, and this time a sweet voice says, “This is for you, papa, mama.” A drop of tear rolls on your wrinkled face. Words are not enough.
- On being alone together, once more. The children have left, their visits become less and less frequent. It is like second honeymoon under the waning moon in the golden years of life.
- On having grandchildren. “You little one you got my nose, and chin of your grandfather’s.” “And you little one ... what’s your name, again? “
- Success in married life - yes, it is the greatest success a man or woman can achieve. It is this kind of success that makes the world go round. It is the very foundation of a family and therefore of human society.
- It is a kind of success no one is denied to aspire for, irrespective of race, creed, education, or culture. Yet it is one many people failed to achieve in spite of their wealth and power.
- Success in family life is primordial. Between career and family, many people have chosen the latter, and say with a sigh, “Well, you cannot have the best of two worlds.” And they choose family.
- Success is not always equated with money or power. But it is always associated with happiness. A philosopher once said, “Happiness is the only commodity, which if you divide it, will multiply.”
- Family life to be successful does not depend on one formula though. It thrives on new frontiers. There are always new things to discover. It is the discovery itself that is important, that makes it original and unique. And it must be always mutual. Joy to one is joy to the other.
- Success cannot be kept in a treasure box and locked. They say, “You cannot rest on your laurels.” Trophies are just symbols; they are not an end.
- Success in married life is neither abstract, nor merely spiritual. It is real. It is to be shared. It must be contagious. Let it be expressed with the children. It must be felt and celebrated in one way or the other without ostentatious show.
- It must be exemplified. It must strive to be a model. It should be able to pass as a paradigm of not only what life really is – but what it should be. “Life is the most difficult art, yet it is the finest.”
-Success in married life has an imprimatur. It leaves a mark. It shines on our epitaph after we are gone, and makes the flowers around it bloom to the fullest.
- Trials are not enough to weather success. Yes, to a courageous person, when asked, “Were you not afraid?” He simply said, “I was afraid, but I did the brave thing.” He picked up the pieces together and his family is once more solid and whole.
- Truly married life is a singular gift, it is a God given power to procreate, to bring forth new life, to enhance the perpetuation of humanity.
- As you switch on the vigil light and retire in the night, we are one happy family looking forward for the next day. For indeed, success must be lived with - day after day, season after season, year after year.
- At the end, we - all of us - come to submit our credentials to the One who made us all, Who gave us that star that guides our life, Who welcomes us at His throne when we shall then have reached it. ~
----------------------------------------------------------
When I was requested to give a message in 2002 to the newlyweds – Mac and Anna - I said to myself. “Gosh, I should know I am really that successful in my married life.” For whatever Cecille and I have done so far – through thick and thin - I know our family has always been together – on the stage, on camping trips, painting exhibits, on visitation of the tombs of our departed, in the church, around the sickbed, on lectures, in the mall, on the farm, on rosary hour. Seldom have we found our ourselves lost when encountering the four “Ws” and one “H” – the very things that make life complex and uncertain. It is because my family is always there to answer these questions together. Life is worth living for. (Anna Christina is the daughter of the author and Cecille, married to Mac Sta. Maria. They are presently living in Australia with two children, Mackie and Markus.)
When I was requested to give a message in 2002 to the newlyweds – Mac and Anna - I said to myself. “Gosh, I should know I am really that successful in my married life.” For whatever Cecille and I have done so far – through thick and thin - I know our family has always been together – on the stage, on camping trips, painting exhibits, on visitation of the tombs of our departed, in the church, around the sickbed, on lectures, in the mall, on the farm, on rosary hour. Seldom have we found our ourselves lost when encountering the four “Ws” and one “H” – the very things that make life complex and uncertain. It is because my family is always there to answer these questions together. Life is worth living for. (Anna Christina is the daughter of the author and Cecille, married to Mac Sta. Maria. They are presently living in Australia with two children, Mackie and Markus.)
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Our Family at our ancestral home in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur
Asked what the great British Prime Minister and hero, Winston Churchill wanted if he were to be born again. He said with twinkle in his eyes looking at Mrs. Churchill. “I’d like to be Mrs. Churchill’s next husband.”
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3. In Search of Meaning in the Golden
Years of Life.
"My life is my message." Mahatma Gandhi
By Dr Abe V Rotor
Living with Nature - School on Blog [avrotor.blogspot.com]
Living with Nature - School on Blog [avrotor.blogspot.com]
The late Maestro Lorenzo Lucero Mata excelled in the fields of education and art as Superintendent of Education in the province of Ilocos Sur until his retirement. He was a former principal, division supervisor, and teacher. A multi-awarded educator, Maestro Mata is also remembered for his obra maestra in sculpture, painting and literature. He had a Fine Arts degree (UP) and an MA in Education. As a writer and historian he headed the San Vicente Historical and Cultural Society and wrote Ti Pakasaritaan ti San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, a History of San Vicente IS. Married to another teacher and town mate, Generosa Alvarez Mata, the couple is blessed with seven children, all successful professionals, and a host of grandchildren.
Recipient of SENATE 1447 P. S. Resolution (2015) Introduced by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE WORK OF LORENZO LUCERO MATA FOR HIS DEDICATION AS A PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER AND HIS CONTRIBUTION TO THE PRESERVATION OF PHILIPPINE HISTORY THROUGH THE CULTURAL DOCUMENTATION OF HERITAGE TOWN SAN VICENTE IN ILOCOS SUR.
Recipient of SENATE 1447 P. S. Resolution (2015) Introduced by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE WORK OF LORENZO LUCERO MATA FOR HIS DEDICATION AS A PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER AND HIS CONTRIBUTION TO THE PRESERVATION OF PHILIPPINE HISTORY THROUGH THE CULTURAL DOCUMENTATION OF HERITAGE TOWN SAN VICENTE IN ILOCOS SUR.
Never in history had the world undergone an unprecedented upheaval in the way we live today. We call this age we are living in postmodernism, a term that can not be adequately explained. The late Dr Florentino H Hornedo, one of the country's leading sociologists, aptly defined it as "living tomorrow today in a free fall."
This terse statement leads us io an arena of discussions by many sectors of our society today. And necessarily it calls for redefinition of terms and issues related to the new age, such as the meaning of legacy, environmental sustainability, globalization, aculturation in the context of cultural integration and others - above all, the real test and measure of progress itself.
Our demographic picture following a geometric increase in population in the last century shows a polarization of the generation of senior citizens (increasing in number and life span) on one hand, and the Millennial generation, those born after 1980 and the first generation to come of age in the new millennium, on the other.
Most Rev Antonio R Tobias DD (left) is the bishop of the Diocese of Novaliches QC where three million people reside, 63 percent are baptized Catholics. Under the bishopric are 36 parishes under diocesan clergy and 23 parishes under Religious clergy. Bishop Tobias served as parish priest in Metro Manila and professor in theology at San Carlos Seminary at Guadalupe before he was assigned bishop at San Fernando La union. then to Novaliches. One of his students is another scion of San Vicente, Monsignor Cecilio Rotor, former Consul of the Vatican to Kenya and the US. Bishop Tobias traces his roots to the Tobias of Santo Domingo, and Realubin (mother) who in turn is related to several families in San Vicente Ilocus Sur. Photo: The author presents to Bishop Tobias two of his books – Light in the Woods and Light from the Old Arch.This article presents a general picture of our world's growing complexity in an attempt to define postmodernism. Limited as it may, the main idea is to pose a challenge to the elders who are in their sunset years, which one romantically describes as "living in their golden years. " What legacy can they leave behind which the millennials can carry on to the generations after them.
Here are thirty (30) scenarios of our postmodern world:
We live in an age of liberalization, of freer expression (Women’s Lib), the role of women being the greatest manifestation, women becoming heads of states, women sharing common professions and fashion with men;
An age of capitalism, a system that cannot exist without democracy, and vice versa, yet inevitably falling into the trap of economic crisis in the US, Europe and Asia;
An age of capitalism, a system that cannot exist without democracy, and vice versa, yet inevitably falling into the trap of economic crisis in the US, Europe and Asia;
Of excess capitalism plaguing countries victimized by cartels, trust and syndicates, capitalism breeding and pampering consumerism, creating a use-and-throw-away society, and failing to differentiate need from want, thus aggravating the degradation of our environment;
An age of mass-market beginning with Henry Ford’s assembly line to mega factories run by robotics whereby production and marketing are done in centralization and conformity, from toothpaste to magazines, shoes, automobiles and homes;
It is an age of stereotype economic, politico-social and cultural patterns, narrowing down personal choices and freedom, prodding non-conformists to explore new horizons in the humanities and science, and even behavior;
An age of weapons of mass destruction, born with the horrendous bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which put an end to WW2 and defined the reality of the Cold War which ended in 1989. The fear of Armageddon persists to this day;
An age of weapons of mass destruction, born with the horrendous bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which put an end to WW2 and defined the reality of the Cold War which ended in 1989. The fear of Armageddon persists to this day;
Of exploring the peaceful application of the tremendous nuclear energy, so with alternative sources in lieu of depleting supply of fossil fuel to meet the world’s increasing demand to run industry, agriculture, transportation, and electricity particularly in large urban centers;
Lola Virginia “Virgie” L. Lagasca, 98, entrepreneur, philanthropist, lives a Spartan life, the key to a long and fulfilled life. As a WWII veteran and guardian of a successful family, she keeps on going with three generations in a row, remarkably at the forefront to caution change with priceless values and tradition. Background mural - Living with Nature - by the author at his residence in Greater Lagro QC.An age of electronics which opened the kingdom of the invisible, heretofore seen only through a keyhole, now revealing the structure of the virus and chemical molecules, including the genetic makeup of life; and lately accurate images of atomic and sub-atomic particles;
Of social media enabling popular access to information and entertainment, knowledge and ideas, and other fields of human endeavor with the use of a palm-size gadget at fingertip command;
Of computers: university-without-walls (e-Learning, on-line teaching), marketing (e-Commerce), publishing (e-Publication), remote control management (tele-conferencing), satellite imaging (weather forecasting); guided navigation (GPS);
Of computers: university-without-walls (e-Learning, on-line teaching), marketing (e-Commerce), publishing (e-Publication), remote control management (tele-conferencing), satellite imaging (weather forecasting); guided navigation (GPS);
We live in a global village in the making, virtually shrinking the world with cyber communication, efficient and convenient transportation, thus erasing so to speak the boundaries of culture, politics, ideologies and pooling them altogether;
An age of fun and pleasure, from floating pleasure palace (Titanic), to pleasure and adventure parks (Disneyland, Ocean Pavilions), beauty and fashion shows (Miss World, Miss Earth), virtual reality shows, casinos, ecotourism;
An age of organized violence, the bombing of the Twin Towers being the eye opener to a global enemy – terrorism. ISIS, Al Qaeda, et al are getting bolder, prompting countries to unite in their fight against terrorism; (NOTE: EU and UN are joining efforts to help end the war of Russia in Ukraine.)
Of senseless violence committed in the home, on campus and street, often involving juveniles as perpetrators, raises disturbing questions on eroded values, breakdown of law and order, and the dark side of The Good Life; and lately cybercrime such as the multi-million dollar heist from Bangladesh Central Bank to Philippine banks and casinos.
An age of population explosion, now 7.7 billion dominated by Millennials, and those aged 10 to 14 years. On the other hand, the world is getting old as population growth rate slows down, and life expectancy rises ( 70.7 years is world’s average versus 68.5 for the Philippines);
An age of fun and pleasure, from floating pleasure palace (Titanic), to pleasure and adventure parks (Disneyland, Ocean Pavilions), beauty and fashion shows (Miss World, Miss Earth), virtual reality shows, casinos, ecotourism;
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world."
- Mahatma Gandhi·
Of sports and games, other than the Olympic games, came non-conventional and highly dangerous sports (skydiving and survival games) pushing human endurance to the limit, and making big business at the expense of many sports, such as rugby and football;An age of organized violence, the bombing of the Twin Towers being the eye opener to a global enemy – terrorism. ISIS, Al Qaeda, et al are getting bolder, prompting countries to unite in their fight against terrorism; (NOTE: EU and UN are joining efforts to help end the war of Russia in Ukraine.)
Of senseless violence committed in the home, on campus and street, often involving juveniles as perpetrators, raises disturbing questions on eroded values, breakdown of law and order, and the dark side of The Good Life; and lately cybercrime such as the multi-million dollar heist from Bangladesh Central Bank to Philippine banks and casinos.
An age of population explosion, now 7.7 billion dominated by Millennials, and those aged 10 to 14 years. On the other hand, the world is getting old as population growth rate slows down, and life expectancy rises ( 70.7 years is world’s average versus 68.5 for the Philippines);
The late Maestra Caridad R Lazo, was in her mid-nineties, in this photo with the author, her pupil at San Vicente (Ilocos Sur) Elementary School. A mother of successful professionals, she kept being involved in church and community activities.
An age of scientific and technological breakthroughs: quantum physics (Higg’s Boson), space travel and exploration (man landing on the moon), breaking the code of life - DNA (genetic engineering), invention of the microchip leading to the Computer Age;
Of religious conflicts mellowing through ecumenism, but it has yet to resolve conflicts arising from extremism and fundamentalism that trigger genocide, terrorism, and mass evacuation, such as the case of the present Syrian war; and in cushioning the exodus of countless faithfuls from their organized religions;
An age of growing transience of people all over the world, migrants, overseas workers, refugees, weakening the institutions of family, home and community, and spurring exodus from rural to urban centers, which has now a ratio in favor of urban population;
We live on a planet we pollute - pollution in air, land and water, heretofore unprecedented in history, destroying the very foundation of life itself in what scientists term as autotoxicity – an indiscriminate and irrational genocide of living things including the human species;
We live in an age of pandemic (COVID-19) and epidemics from HIV-AIDS, Ebola, Dengue, Bird and Swine Flu, and recently, Zika virus causing abnormal births, while ancient diseases like tuberculosis still claim millions of lives. On the other hand, modern life style claims millions of lives from accidents, heart attack, suicide, including obesity related deaths;
We induce catastrophes - earthquakes, tsunamic, tomatoes, typhoons, floods - more frequent, more destructive and varied, triggered by global warming, deforestation, desertification, pollution, Nuclear testing, rise of megapolises, excessive affluence;
An age of prohibited drugs on the loose, clandestinely channeled to millions of users worldwide, such a menace has destroyed countless young men and women, and undermined the integrity of governments and organizations;
Of test tube babies, surrogate mothers, menopausal and multiple childbirths, egg and sperm banks, organ and stem cell transplantations, which emerged into a multi-billion dollar industry amidst ethico-moral criticisms;
Of transgender, transvestite and same sex marriage; of single-parenthood, multiple union and divorce, radically changing the founding concepts and principles of the institutions of marriage, family and dignity of the human person;
The late Lola Naty R Ruelos is the mother of a priest and a nun, and three other children all professionals in their respective fields. She symbolizes the traditional Filipina mother and home maker, an entrepreneur and leader in her community - San Vicente, Ilocos Sur - even before the advent of Women Liberation Movement. An age of mega structures that dwarf the wonders of the Ancient World: Burj Khalifa in Dubai the tallest building today, the Yangtze River Complex in China the biggest dam, and the International Research Station orbiting the Earth as prototype space city;
A century of freedom from three totalitarian alternatives – colonialism, fascism and communism - the realization of ideas of liberty inspired by the French Revolution and that of our own in Rizal’s time, and as a whole, the indomitable human spirit.
An age of secessionism – dissolution of the USSR, creation of new states (South Sudan, East Timor), reunification of divided states (Vietnam, Germany); on the other hand emboldened separatist movements linked with civil unrest and terrorism (Al Qaeda, ISIS, Tamil, Abu Sayaf);
An age of global and regional organizations – United Nations and its various organizations (FAO, WHO, ILO. UNICEF, UNESCO), European Union, APEC, ASEAN, G20; and international summits and conferences with agenda of global importance such as Climate Change;
A century of freedom from three totalitarian alternatives – colonialism, fascism and communism - the realization of ideas of liberty inspired by the French Revolution and that of our own in Rizal’s time, and as a whole, the indomitable human spirit.
An age of secessionism – dissolution of the USSR, creation of new states (South Sudan, East Timor), reunification of divided states (Vietnam, Germany); on the other hand emboldened separatist movements linked with civil unrest and terrorism (Al Qaeda, ISIS, Tamil, Abu Sayaf);
An age of global and regional organizations – United Nations and its various organizations (FAO, WHO, ILO. UNICEF, UNESCO), European Union, APEC, ASEAN, G20; and international summits and conferences with agenda of global importance such as Climate Change;
Of optimism and dream of a better world – globalization, space travel and loftily planetary migration and virtual immortality – attest to the bold and adventurous nature of man, his awareness of time and space, and even his future, minuscule he and his spaceship the Earth may be in the universe;
It is an age of countless valuable lessons distilled from victories and defeats, successes and failures, pride and humility, joy and sorrow, good and bad times, that humble the Homo sapiens to go down his knees and look up to Heaven, an experience from which wisdom grows, and shared to the younger generations and humanity as a whole. ~
It is an age of countless valuable lessons distilled from victories and defeats, successes and failures, pride and humility, joy and sorrow, good and bad times, that humble the Homo sapiens to go down his knees and look up to Heaven, an experience from which wisdom grows, and shared to the younger generations and humanity as a whole. ~
-----------------------
We are not hearing much about legacy these days.
One reason is that we live in an incredibly present-minded society with diminishing sense of history. It is also for the fact that our society appears to be "the only one that matters, " thus we seldom acknowledge the legacy we have inherited, so that we don’t see the value in leaving a legacy ourselves. We are also a culture that wants to believe we can live forever. We venerate youth culture, try to stay looking young as long as possible. A third reason is that we live in an extremely disposable society. Everything is designed to be used a few times and then thrown away. Lastly, we live in a very impatient society. We want things to happen immediately. Reference: Time, Internet
One reason is that we live in an incredibly present-minded society with diminishing sense of history. It is also for the fact that our society appears to be "the only one that matters, " thus we seldom acknowledge the legacy we have inherited, so that we don’t see the value in leaving a legacy ourselves. We are also a culture that wants to believe we can live forever. We venerate youth culture, try to stay looking young as long as possible. A third reason is that we live in an extremely disposable society. Everything is designed to be used a few times and then thrown away. Lastly, we live in a very impatient society. We want things to happen immediately. Reference: Time, Internet
*Fourth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly falls on July 28th, two days following the feast day of Saints Joachim and Anne
You live in two different worlds. One world is found in the school, the other outside its walls. The first is the ideal, the other is the real one. One is kind and patient, the other cruel and demanding. One emphasizes principles and theory, the other practice. One teaches you never to indulge in vices, the other even advertises vices. In one you play the music by notes, in the other you play by ear. In one you keep your trash in the waste can, in the other, on the street.
You find a homogenous, fine company in school; outside is a heterogeneous society. In one you can hear the echo of your voice mixing with other voices in vibrant, happy sound; in the other, it dies in thin air, or in a crowd. Or it mixes with cries and moans. You have the privilege of education; outside millions of children are deprived of this opportunity.
For the coming years until you become 21 or so, you will be witnessing the daily drama in these two worlds, and you will realize their great disparity. Do not allow yourself unprepared, more so to be caught between two rocks, so to speak. We have seen failure in those who waited for the wall to dissolve, failure in those who crossed it too soon, and failure in those who simply became prisoners behind it.
You are in your right direction and your pace is just right. Just trust in us to guide you. Be as obedient as you are. Be as industrious and sincere. Be kind always to your sister and brother. Study your lessons harder. Keep faith in the Almighty and mankind. Be healthy and strong. Keep your chin up even in defeat.
What we are saying is that you must prepare yourself early in life to adopt yourself to the outside world. Do not be just a witness or spectator, be that actor on the stage of true life. Our responsibility to you, as well as to your sister and brother, is one more than that of your teachers. As father and mother, we will strive to help you cross the bridge of life more than the care of anyone or any institution. We will strive to fill the gap in whatever way we can to make it less difficult for you to succeed.
May you find this special moment a time of reflection. Remember to read this letter again when you are not in school, where the world is real, and reflect once again. Keep the message in your heart and mind as you walk through life’s rosy and thorny path.
To Anna Christina, 15
January 24, 1998
What we are telling you is a lesson, which we want you to reflect upon, on this post recollection day. There are many young people who get spoiled because they fall victims to this triad of errors, which are as follows:
1. Too much care can lead to over protection,
2. Overprotection stifles the mind, and
3. A mind that is not challenged takes things for granted.
You may be brilliant, but you may not be using this gift well. You may be loved, but you may not be aware that you are not reciprocating properly. You may find the world exciting, but not challenging. You may have many friends but friendship may lead you away from your path of success. You may have many things at fingertip command but you may be passive.
You will realize as you grow up that failure of life is hidden behind too much of the good life. Rich countries, it is true, provide the good life, but look at the present problems with the new generation. And if we think that nobody is poor in a rich country why is it that there are millions of impoverished people in the US whose conditions may even be worst than in our country? How can a genius professor turn into a world terrorist? .
On the other hand, how can Helen Keller see the world clearer than most of us who are not blind? How did honest Abe Lincoln pass the bar when he did not formally attend law school, and became president of America? Why did Augustine renounce his rich inheritance just to live a monk’s life? Life indeed is full of contradictions, and this is what makes it go round.
In your post recollection, get a whole sheet of paper. Draw a vertical line at the center and list down on the left side people you know who made it in life the hard way. On the right, list down people you know who did not make it because they became willing victims of the triad syndrome.
Where do you place yourself? Think deep and write your resolution.
To Leo Carlo, 14
July 28, 2000
Every day is a day of celebration with you, and with your brother and sister around. Our home is complete. But there is one thing that makes our lives unique. It is having you around doing a lot of things by yourself, from caring pets to inventing gadgets, which only you can understand. Then there are your paintings, mural in size for your early age.
When we asked ourselves what you would become, we just said, “He will become what he wants to become." It is because you are talented, creative, and in many ways, responsible. The best gift a child can give to his parents is confidence.
But there is a lot to learn in this world. Ours is a very complex one, and it is going to be more difficult to live with. That is why we want that confidence to be anchored deeply and properly to withstand the harsh realities of life, which do not spare anyone - except perhaps the strong and prepared.
Let us reaffirm our commitment to you, as we have done the same to your brother and sister. And as the youngest, we will double our efforts if needed, this we can proudly say to you on this special occasion: We stand by you at all times, until we can do no more - or when you say you can already face life. ~
Markus and Mackie stroll with their Tita Veny under heritage mango trees;
1. Here at NFA, I learned the true application of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. I aspired in my own capacity to be a good student of this great thought.
Author fondly poses with grand daughter, Mackie.
It is at NFA where my career blossomed from accountant to director.
The proclamation, establishing National Grandparents Day stated three distinct purposes: To honor grandparents; To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children; To help children become aware of strength, information and guidance older people can offer.
4. Letters to Our Children (Marlo, Anna, Leo)
and Grandchildren (Mackie, Markus, Mateo)
on Recollection Day
From Papa and Mama (Lolo and Lola)
Dr Abe V Rotor
Living with Nature School on Blog
To Matthew Marlo, 16 July 15, 1997
When you open and read this letter you shall be in uniform, seated comfortably with your classmates, your teacher giving instructions that you devote some precious minutes of concentration.
When you open and read this letter you shall be in uniform, seated comfortably with your classmates, your teacher giving instructions that you devote some precious minutes of concentration.
It shall be a moment out of 365 days, two-thirds you spend in school, and a spark out of 17 to 25 years of schooling. May this letter therefore, contribute to the significance of this occasion.
Marlo plays the flute with sister Anna on the keyboard, and father with the violin.
You live in two different worlds. One world is found in the school, the other outside its walls. The first is the ideal, the other is the real one. One is kind and patient, the other cruel and demanding. One emphasizes principles and theory, the other practice. One teaches you never to indulge in vices, the other even advertises vices. In one you play the music by notes, in the other you play by ear. In one you keep your trash in the waste can, in the other, on the street.
You find a homogenous, fine company in school; outside is a heterogeneous society. In one you can hear the echo of your voice mixing with other voices in vibrant, happy sound; in the other, it dies in thin air, or in a crowd. Or it mixes with cries and moans. You have the privilege of education; outside millions of children are deprived of this opportunity.
For the coming years until you become 21 or so, you will be witnessing the daily drama in these two worlds, and you will realize their great disparity. Do not allow yourself unprepared, more so to be caught between two rocks, so to speak. We have seen failure in those who waited for the wall to dissolve, failure in those who crossed it too soon, and failure in those who simply became prisoners behind it.
You are in your right direction and your pace is just right. Just trust in us to guide you. Be as obedient as you are. Be as industrious and sincere. Be kind always to your sister and brother. Study your lessons harder. Keep faith in the Almighty and mankind. Be healthy and strong. Keep your chin up even in defeat.
What we are saying is that you must prepare yourself early in life to adopt yourself to the outside world. Do not be just a witness or spectator, be that actor on the stage of true life. Our responsibility to you, as well as to your sister and brother, is one more than that of your teachers. As father and mother, we will strive to help you cross the bridge of life more than the care of anyone or any institution. We will strive to fill the gap in whatever way we can to make it less difficult for you to succeed.
May you find this special moment a time of reflection. Remember to read this letter again when you are not in school, where the world is real, and reflect once again. Keep the message in your heart and mind as you walk through life’s rosy and thorny path.
To Anna Christina, 15
January 24, 1998
We are writing you a day after your recollection. What a strange arrangement. Shouldn’t parents write or send gifts to their children on the day of celebration? We can imagine how you sat down there alone in your seat while your classmates were reading their parents’ letters, or opening the gifts they received.
This incident can be easily dismissed because people who are bound by love and respect easily find forgiveness.
Anna at a botanical garden on Mt Banahaw,
Laguna-Quezon provinces
Lest we forget however, that the very things that bind people could be the same things that can break them apart. We have known many a pampered child fail in life. We have read true stories of friendship gone sour. What an irony that the very things that set progress could be the very cause of destruction. So with the cause of breaking friendship. So with love. Brotherhood. Peace. Taking things for granted on the other hand, can generate similar catastrophic results. Why many an accident happened from taking things for granted. A conflagration can be traced to a single matchstick.
What we are telling you is a lesson, which we want you to reflect upon, on this post recollection day. There are many young people who get spoiled because they fall victims to this triad of errors, which are as follows:
1. Too much care can lead to over protection,
2. Overprotection stifles the mind, and
3. A mind that is not challenged takes things for granted.
You may be brilliant, but you may not be using this gift well. You may be loved, but you may not be aware that you are not reciprocating properly. You may find the world exciting, but not challenging. You may have many friends but friendship may lead you away from your path of success. You may have many things at fingertip command but you may be passive.
You will realize as you grow up that failure of life is hidden behind too much of the good life. Rich countries, it is true, provide the good life, but look at the present problems with the new generation. And if we think that nobody is poor in a rich country why is it that there are millions of impoverished people in the US whose conditions may even be worst than in our country? How can a genius professor turn into a world terrorist? .
On the other hand, how can Helen Keller see the world clearer than most of us who are not blind? How did honest Abe Lincoln pass the bar when he did not formally attend law school, and became president of America? Why did Augustine renounce his rich inheritance just to live a monk’s life? Life indeed is full of contradictions, and this is what makes it go round.
In your post recollection, get a whole sheet of paper. Draw a vertical line at the center and list down on the left side people you know who made it in life the hard way. On the right, list down people you know who did not make it because they became willing victims of the triad syndrome.
Where do you place yourself? Think deep and write your resolution.
To Leo Carlo, 14
July 28, 2000
Leo with Papa and Mama; Leo's art
But there is a lot to learn in this world. Ours is a very complex one, and it is going to be more difficult to live with. That is why we want that confidence to be anchored deeply and properly to withstand the harsh realities of life, which do not spare anyone - except perhaps the strong and prepared.
Let us reaffirm our commitment to you, as we have done the same to your brother and sister. And as the youngest, we will double our efforts if needed, this we can proudly say to you on this special occasion: We stand by you at all times, until we can do no more - or when you say you can already face life. ~
------------
Grandchildren's Adventure with Nature
Markus (in blue), Mateo, and Mackie spend a summer vacation
in their ancestral home in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, 2019
"priming" a deep well pump under the watchful eyes of their mom.
Lesson on former Paaralang Bayan.sa Himpapawid (People's School on Air) with Ms Melly C Tenorio 738 KHz AM 8 to 9 evening class, Monday to Friday. Lesson on TATAKalikasan, Ateneo de Manila University 87.9fm Radyo Katipunan 11 to 12 a.m. every Thursday
5. Life Begins at Retirement*
Cecilia Rojas Rotor, CPA, MBA, CESO VI
Former Director of Budget, Treasury and Fund Management
Retirement is a journey, not a destination. It only means that it is time for a new adventure. Adventure in the golden years of life.
What really makes life beautiful with NFA? What make an employee spend her most precious years of life with NFA? Let me count the ways.
For NFA is the acronym of the principles of Maslow’s Concept: man’s basic survival Need is Food; man’s basic social need is Family (the NFA family); and man’s highest need is Actualization – actualization of NFA’s vision and mission.
NFA is very important indeed! In fact, I learned that no country - big and small, industrialized and developing - is without an NFA, or its equivalence or counterpart. I say, NFA is a universal organization. It is said in the Universal Prayer as well, “Give us this day our daily bread.” (Us refers to all, irrespective of race, age, status, belief, ideology; it is the word us with reference to adequacy of food that unites mankind.)
It is my alma mater for four scores and two years, subtly saying 42 years of continuous service, the longest “schooling” until I was awarded (finally) with a “diploma of retirement” – which I cannot refuse. The concept of alumna of NFA is, “Once an NaFiAin, always a NaFiAian.” And every time I happen to meet a co-alumna or co- alumnus, the world spontaneously brightens up, reversing the hands of time, and re-creating many wonderful scenarios that make memories fresh and alive.
3. Life after NFA is beautiful. It is another stage of life which I am beginning to enjoy as a grandmother. Retirement is out of the dictionary when you are babysitter, teacher, housekeeper, playmate, rolled into one.
NFA taught me many things to prepare me to be a wonderful and loving Lola , borrowing the words of Mackie my eldest granddaughter. (See above photo )
Happiness I realize is compensating for the limited time and presence I had with my family while I was with NFA. But it is NFA that made me realize that happiness is not truly your own alone.” It is one commodity that, if you divide and distribute, it will multiply.” It is boundless, it is eternal; it defies any mathematical law. It is man’s greatest glory on earth.
4. It is at NFA where I tried to study and understand issues considered to be sensitive, such as the term “subsidy.” As an accountant I saw a financial picture inclined towards social goals and objectives, of stabilizing the industry to prevent hunger and its consequences; to pursue the idea of attaining self-sufficiency, while aiming at sustainable productivity. Meanwhile huge importation is inevitable year in and year out. These are gargantuan images that are difficult to comprehend, much less to attain, if I may say.
And yet these are the very reasons why NFA should and must exist, firm and strong to lead its various stakeholders. I leave the organization with the urgent wish that it continue to pursue its noble task vigorously. Its triumph shall, in every alumnus, proudly feels.
5. There is a saying by John F Kennedy (originally by our own national hero Jose Rizal), “Ask not what America can do for you; but what you can do for America.”
Analogously I ask myself. “What have I done for NFA, and what has NFA done for me?”
Allow me to count the ways that I know of:
Rotor-Sta Maria-Mendoza-Viray family in a re-union
It is at NFA that I was able to obtain an MBA and CESO, on top of my CPA.
· It is at NFA where I grew gray hairs old folks say is a sign of wisdom and counsel.
· It is with NFA I learned to hurdle obstacles generally attendant to public service.
· It is with NFA I tried my best to set a standard of a role model for my staff and colleagues in government.
· It is at NFA where I found personal happiness, and comfort in the dark hours.
· It is with NFA I did the best I could in actively participating in decision making and strategic planning.
· It is at NFA where I saw action, and fought in the battlefield, so to speak.
· It is with NFA I helped steer the boat toward its goal and mission.
Lastly, but not the least, It is at NFA where I found a life partner and together built a happy family. And look at the world as bright as ever. ~
*Response to a tribute given by the members of the Management Committee of the National Food Authority, August 8, 2016. Reprint, NFA's 48th Anniversary September 26 2020 Feature on GRAINS Magazine.
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