Gusto ko...

Hello Anak,

It's been a while. Sorry at matagal akong di nakasulat sa iyo. I've been busy the past few weeks as I had to teach classes. Yes, I had to teach classes for fellow exempts while the factory was shutdown. I taught 2 classes - Project Management Fundamentals and AutoCAD basics. Based on feedback from my pupils (hey, that's how I call you when I'm teaching you how to read and write! :)), I can pursue a teaching career already. O diba, pag wala na akong makuhang work, magtuturo na lang talaga ako. It's a noble profession anyway - just like your 2 grandmothers and your Tita Minnie.

Anyway, so much for my excuses. I wanted to write something about things that you are saying today while you're 3 years old which WILL replicate a real-life scenario in the future. You keep on saying "Eh gusto ko eh.." on things that you just want or crave for. Of course, your Nanay and I dont just give in for the things that you 'want' because we know what is good for you. We would scold you and tell you "not to do it," or "you can't have it." Afterwards, you'd pout and get mad at us. Yes, at 3 years old, you're doing these things. And yes, you will do the same thing when you grow older. Especially when you get to your teens. OMG!!!

Leanne, I have been in that situation when I was on my teens and I know how it feels when I dont get what I want because your lolo and lola won't give in. As I grew older and mature, I realized that they were right. I am thankful to them also that they did not let me push through with my agenda. Case in point - after high school, I already want to get a job even for summer because of 2 reasons: [1] to help them on the finances as life was difficult back then {til now! :)}, and [2] I want to feel some degree of independence, just like my friends who had jobs. Your lolo told me a hard and big "NO!" He said that once I get to have the glory of earning my own money, I would stop my schooling. And what do you know, my friends who had jobs at that time stopped their schooling and ended up miserably since they did not have the right education. I am thankful that I followed your lolo's advice. Somehow, though I did not get my tertiary education from a prestigous school, I landed on a nice paying job in a multi-national company.

So there, for now, [1] we will just say "no" to your cravings, [2] you will cry (and maybe later curse us), and [3] hopefully, we'd lead you to a right path and likewise be thankful.

Ok anak, sa susunod ulit!

Love,
Tatay