Nov 15, 2006
I found this while cleaning up and organizing the files in my computer. My dad retired last year and I was asked to speak at his retirement party. I sent this letter since I couldn't come home because of school. My younger brother read it. Anyway, I'd just like to share. I'm in a sentimental mode, so sue me.
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Dear Daddy,------------------------------------------
July 1, 2006
Did I ever thank you for the “bahay bahay” that you built, or for teaching me to play chess? For comforting me when I was in tears? A million times, thank you. A dad is someone who wants to catch you before you fall. I have fallen time and time again, but you were always there to pick me up and brush me off and more importantly, try again.
When I was a child, I looked up to you. Back then it was on account of the height difference. Now, I have grown feet and inches and I still look up to you for many things: your silent patience and understanding, your ability to pause first before acting, your hard work, persistence and endurance in everything that you do.
When I was a child, I stood on your feet as you taught me to dance, step by little step. Now, my feet have grown too heavy to stand on yours. Nevertheless, I still stand on your footprints, letting you lead the way and following step by little step.
You have walked this life as your own person, with independence, honesty and integrity. Though it is of little words, you have carved a big path for us, your children, through the examples you’ve set. And still you let us make our own way. We will make our own way but that shining path you’ve set and walked on will always be there to guide us, your steady footsteps always echoing in our ears.
Retirement is a time for rest. But don’t misunderstand, “rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”
Some say that life begins at retirement. It is time for your life to bloom again, this time for you to enjoy the things and the people you love. Just as the flowers and plants you love to nurture will grow with your touch, so too will your spirit and the people you touch. I am one of them and so are my brothers. Your life and love touched us deeply though we may not openly show it. You are an inspiration to your children and always will be. So don’t worry about us. We are grown. This time now is for yourself.
So as you retire, keep a firm grip on your perspective toward life. Life is not measured so much by the quantity of days, but by their quality. Let each day be a chance to fulfill your own hopes and dreams. Fill each day with beautiful memories and joyful moments. You are retiring. But don’t retire from life; continue to experience all that life has to offer.
As you retire, share your wisdom and your knowledge. We will support your journey. Oh and here, remember to take with you our respect, love and loyalty. Explore this life. Go. See the gift of retirement as a gift of new horizons for you to enjoy. We wish you all the best.
When I was a child, I looked up to you. Back then it was on account of the height difference. Now, I have grown feet and inches and I still look up to you for many things: your silent patience and understanding, your ability to pause first before acting, your hard work, persistence and endurance in everything that you do.
When I was a child, I stood on your feet as you taught me to dance, step by little step. Now, my feet have grown too heavy to stand on yours. Nevertheless, I still stand on your footprints, letting you lead the way and following step by little step.
You have walked this life as your own person, with independence, honesty and integrity. Though it is of little words, you have carved a big path for us, your children, through the examples you’ve set. And still you let us make our own way. We will make our own way but that shining path you’ve set and walked on will always be there to guide us, your steady footsteps always echoing in our ears.
Retirement is a time for rest. But don’t misunderstand, “rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”
Some say that life begins at retirement. It is time for your life to bloom again, this time for you to enjoy the things and the people you love. Just as the flowers and plants you love to nurture will grow with your touch, so too will your spirit and the people you touch. I am one of them and so are my brothers. Your life and love touched us deeply though we may not openly show it. You are an inspiration to your children and always will be. So don’t worry about us. We are grown. This time now is for yourself.
So as you retire, keep a firm grip on your perspective toward life. Life is not measured so much by the quantity of days, but by their quality. Let each day be a chance to fulfill your own hopes and dreams. Fill each day with beautiful memories and joyful moments. You are retiring. But don’t retire from life; continue to experience all that life has to offer.
As you retire, share your wisdom and your knowledge. We will support your journey. Oh and here, remember to take with you our respect, love and loyalty. Explore this life. Go. See the gift of retirement as a gift of new horizons for you to enjoy. We wish you all the best.
Happy retirement dad, We love you.
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