The keys to success

Dear Nanay,

I am a 48-year-old father of three wonderful kids.

Five years ago, I was negotiating for an exit package with my previous employer. That was tough knowing that I would lose a very good job after long years of working loyally for the same firm. I was even hospitalized several months after losing my job due to stress, etc. After that, I picked up the pieces and started a small business together with my wife and sibling (who unfortunately also lost his job almost at the same time). Three and a half years passed and our business did not do as well as planned. We were struck with so many uncertainties along the way. Napakarami naming problemang hinarap (We faced so many problems) to make our business work. I put in all our savings and the money I got from my previous employer. We even had debts.

We closed our other outlets to improve profitability. It is good that I have a job again and I was able to get my brother in, too. My wife now runs the business with my help from time to time. This is when I realized that even though I am a very successful corporate person, I couldn’t necessarily make our own business flourish right away.

It’s really different when it’s your own money that’s on the line.

We were even worse off than most of the Ondoy victims. I almost lost my nerve in handling all these challenges in life. Even my personal life and relationship with my wife and kids were affected. I even lost all our material possessions that we saved over the years, including two cars.

It’s hard to adjust if you once had an orderly life. I even thought of selling our nice house, moving to a smaller one and transferring my kids to another school. However, I’m still not losing faith in Him and continue praying for guidance.

Nanay, you are such a very good role model of life’s ups and downs. You are one of my inspirations; that’s why I haven’t given up. If you and Tatay were able to overcome, why can’t we?

Many thanks for sharing your experiences with us.

Laking National

Dear Laking National,

Thank you for your inspiring letter. 

I congratulate you because it looks like you have found the answers to your own life’s challenges.

I certainly agree with your outlook in life. You never give up and keep getting up every time you fall. Hard work and perseverance. Faith in yourself, your family and in Him. You are correct. Those are the keys to success! And most certainly, if I can do it, then there is no reason why you can’t. Keep going and I have no doubt that someday you will achieve your dreams.

Sincerely,

Nanay

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A Reader Fulfills Her Dream

Dear Nanay,

Kumusta po kayo, Nanay? (How are you?) I am a household helper whose Christmas wish is not only to see my whole family but also to meet you personally.

Nanay, even when I was working for my previous employer I would always read your column and since then you have become my inspiration and I dreamed of someday writing you. This is the fulfillment of that dream.

My current employer lent me his e-mail so it would be easy for you to read my letter.

Ruth

Dear Ruth,

Thank you for reading and supporting Ask Nanay. I hope that you learn a little something from my experiences and those of our letter senders.

Good luck in the New Year!

Sincerely,

Nanay

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If you have a question, e-mail us at asknanay@nationalbookstore.com.ph or just drop your letter at drop boxes in all National Book Store branches nationwide.