Advice for a sibling

My sister was giggling with excitement when she told me that she was about to start her new job in one of Philippines' most respected accounting firms. My heart leaped with joy as I pictured her in her business outfit, bustling the busy streets of the financial district in her usual graceful and stylish gait. New to the money-making world, she will be facing tough times and memorable challenges ahead but knowing how strong-willed, intelligent and courageous she is, I know she will survive the sometimes unforgiving environment in the workplace. I could still vividly remember how people would praise her charm and beauty when she was a little girl and now, as fast as the snow melts in the sunshine, she is already a certified public accountant, ready to face the world and design her own career path.

Of course as an older brother, I have some pieces of advice for her. Read on.

Dear sis,

In your journey as an adult, you will meet people from all walks of life. Some just silently go, some stay and others leave a mark that could forever change your perspective about life and career. People will sometimes hate you and throw stones at you because you are exactly what they would pay for a million dollars. They wish they were you but even if the sun sets in the east, that could never happen. So their only resort is to assassinate your character and be bitter about their defeat. There is nothing you could do about it. Nasty and acerbic people are all over the place. Always remember to carefully choose your battles but never surrender from one. Do not waste your time minding crap. Just do your best, never impinge on the rights of the others and think first before doing things that could put yourself, your family and your country in a compromising and shameful situation. When you are caught in a quagmire, your family, friends and God are just a call away. Learn to harmonize with the situation but never give up your own faith, beliefs and principles. By doing this, people will respect your individuality and will never plan on including you to their dubious deeds.

Keep in mind that respect is a virtue and everybody craves for it regardless of who they are and where they come from. Almost all things including honesty, patience and trust are borne out of respect. If you exercise it, then you are in the right track. Also, people who have helped you climb your way up will appreciate a word of thanks from time to time.

Life is a beach and it really is. Teeming with sand of troubles and waves of endless tests. But beyond all of these, a new horizon sprawling with life and hope awaits those who brave the seas and are not afraid to lose sight of the shore. Tough, huh?! Your kuya (older brother) might sound super idealistic by saying all of these things but it is always better to set some rules and guides for us to preserve what is right and acceptable than just act according to our emotions. Nobody is perfect. I am full of flaws and what-if's, but imperfection is basically a human thing which makes us strive to be better.

Bon courage my dear sister! Do not forget that a good name and a good reputation can never be substituted with material possessions. The best things in life are free, you know :)

Love,

Kuya

Life