The D Spot

Of UPCAT, of ACET, of USTET

I remember a few weeks back when the results of UPCAT, ACET and USTET were released, and there were hundreds of the almost a hundred thousand readers who sought my help in looking for their results, asked questions, sought my advice on school related issues, etc. I updated the posts when there were new updates, answered their queries, even went to the schools personally to check on their names, sent them text messages and emails, since it was very difficult for many to get through the websites during the first few days because of the heavy traffic.

What was so satisfying about this thing was that the students texted back, emailed back, or left comments on my blog to say how grateful they were. Some said the posts I wrote and the updates, including the advice, lessened their stress. On the other hand, it was a mixed feeling for me–happy for those who qualified, and heavy in the heart for those who did not. Just as in any other qualifying exams, there would be passers, waitlisted and fails.

Of giving back

There were parents who called up to personally thank me, and a good number of them asked, “Why are you doing all these?”. In fact, a few said, they did not even have the time to personally attend to these things. Some lived in the provinces, or far south or far north, while there were parents abroad who asked for help.

Back to the question, “Why are you doing all these?” The answer is simple and straightforward–I just wanted to give back through others the many blessings that the good Lord has continued to shower to our family. I cannot say that life for us is easy, for who does not have any issues to deal with? All I can say is that God has been so good to us, even being able to withstand the struggles and the challenges.

Of living life

Now the question of “What is your secret to raising such wonderful children?” I have had my proud mommy moments, I have posted in my blog the achievements of each child (ending school years with honors, passing the UPCAT and the ACET, musically gifted, theater-inclined, debaters, gymnast, dancers, swimmer, good writers, etc.)

For one, I was kind to myself, to my kids, and to my husband. I was a cool mother–did not nag, did not impose stiff rules, did not tutor them, did not impose study time or nap time, did not punish, and many more did nots. I trusted them as much as I could–communications open. I was a sponge–taking in whatever pains came along the way, the challenges, even failures. I protected my kids as much as I could. Now that they are growing up (so fast) they have become exposed to life–the harsh realities of life, included. Sorry, if I hear violent reactions now–the fact is, different folks, different strokes. That was how I thought I should raise my kids.

What I had with them during their growing years was quality time, talk time, fun time, and more. Yes, I have been guilty of not being able to come to most PTAs and to some milestones in their lives because of my work before I took early retirement two years ago. But if I were to live my life over again, I would still do the same.

A reminder to all the mothers out there to take it easy…on yourselves…on your kids. But of course, you know yourselves and your kids much better to know how to deal with different situations.

I am sharing with you the following poem which was written by the late Erma Bombeck after she found out that she had a fatal disease.

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER

I would have talked less and listened more. I would have invited friends
over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the ‘good’ living room and worried much
less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because
my hair had just been teased and sprayed. I would have burned the pink candle
sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have sat on the lawn with my children and not worried about grass stains. I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life. I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren’t there for the day.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn’t show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I’d have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle. When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, “Later. Now go get washed up for dinner.”

There would have been more “I love you’s”.. more “I’m sorry’s”… but mostly,
given another shot at life, I would seize every minute…look at it and really see it…live it…and never give it back.

Stop sweating the small stuff. Don’t worry about who doesn’t like you, who has more, or who’s doing what. Instead, let’s cherish the relationships we have with those who Do love us.
Let’s think about what God HAS blessed us with.

And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, as well as spiritually. Life is too short to let it pass you by. We only have one shot at this and then it’s gone.

In memory of Erma Bombeck.

Related Posts

• Mr & Mrs R - 32 years married!
• DISCIPLINE – The One Thing We Need for Change (Part 2)
• My Blog is Alive! and I am happy...
• ‎7 Wonderful Blessings (How'd you do that? I was asked)
• My Amnesia Girl - A Movie Review and Quotable Quotes
• Happy 14th Birthday Alan, Jr.!
• DIVORCE BILL: Are you FOR divorce or are you NOT?