Retirement and the passion for arts

In only a few months, I will say goodbye to teaching. This university professor's 39 years of teaching will soon end. I honestly do not know, though, if it would be an abrupt end because I still feel the need to teach, even part-time. Anything done in such a hurried manner will have adverse effects on one's mental and emotional health. As a result, even after I retire, I will continue to teach since I love it.

Custom states that at reaching a specific age, one must somehow quit their regular professional engagement. Consider a situation at work where it is evident that a person is already unable to complete some duties that are more physically demanding. Such a physical need, however, cannot prevent one from performing other comparable but rewarding duties, particularly those that we have been working on for years. And sure, if our system is accustomed to something, it will hunger finding methods to do it repeatedly. No matter how taxing the physical effort, it would still give me the energy to continue.

A chance to perform on a musical stage production “The Path to Avalon” even a few months after retiring is what keeps me busy. Once more, this leads to an ability that no matter what state we are in, things will continue to move forward. I simply have to accept it as it comes along because to ignore it would seem to be to miss an opportunity, and passion cannot afford that. Yes, my passion is what drives me on.

Passion recognizes the chance and never lets it pass. Passion urges one to keep going and encourages one to see every opportunity. The most I can do is to keep pursuing my passion for the promotion of arts and culture. Despite how routine my daily chores may seem; this is what motivates me to keep going. In my capacity as a professor, I advise my students to find a passion and explore the real essence of it. They must be curious and follow their interests.

There are many other routes we might pursue, and if we find our passion or area of interest in any of them, it will make our lives more complete and satisfying. One of the greatest benefits of an arts education is the ability to give and receive criticism, which is necessary to ignite such passion.

The passion and affection for the arts transcend beyond just self-gratification. It is how we transform it into something with a deeper purpose. It can extend to patriotism; safeguarding citizens, valuing them, and fulfilling our obligation to serve our nation are all advantages in life as well as moral principles to uphold to help others.

Finally, allow me to wish The FREEMAN a happy 103rd anniversary on Monday. Being a columnist of this publication, which serves as a testimony to the people who have worked tirelessly throughout the years, has been an enormous honor and privilege. Let us keep going in giving service to the community Mabuhi ug padayon, The FREEMAN!