Hello Onelife Networx, My name is Rolando, and I'm reaching out to share a deeply personal struggle that has been weighing heavily on my heart. I am an entrepreneur, and for the past several years, I've poured my heart and soul into building my business. It's been a journey filled with highs and lows, but recently, the challenges have become overwhelming. Financial difficulties have hit my business hard. Despite my best efforts to innovate and adapt, the numbers just aren't adding up. The stress of meeting expenses, paying suppliers, and keeping the business afloat has become a constant burden. Each day feels like a battle to stay above water, and I find myself losing hope and interest in the very dream I once cherished. What makes this situation even more heart-wrenching is my team. My employees are more than just workers; they're like family. They've stood by me through thick and thin, contributing their talents and dedication to help the business grow. The thought of having to let them go, of seeing them lose their jobs and livelihoods, is something I can't bear to contemplate. Yet, as I look at the financial realities, closing the business appears to be the most viable option. It seems like the only way to prevent further losses and protect myself from sinking deeper into debt. But deep down, a part of me clings to the hope that a miracle might happen, that somehow, against all odds, the business could get back on track. I've spent countless nights wrestling with this decision, torn between my responsibility to my employees and the harsh financial truths. The uncertainty of what the future holds is daunting, and I feel like I'm standing at a crossroads with no clear direction. I'm sharing my story here in the hope that others who have faced similar dilemmas might offer some guidance or share their experiences. It's comforting to know that I'm not alone in this struggle, and I'm eager to hear how others have navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship in tough times. Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story. Your support and understanding mean the world to me as I navigate this challenging chapter of my life. Warm regards, Rolando Our Reply:
Dear Rolando, First, let me say how deeply I empathize with your situation. The journey of entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges, and the weight of your current circumstances is undeniably heavy. Yet, your willingness to share your story and seek guidance is a testament to your strength and resilience. It's in these moments of vulnerability that true growth and transformation can occur. Rolando, while the financial strain is real and daunting, it's important to remember that every challenge carries within it the seed of opportunity. Your business has been a labor of love, and though the path ahead seems uncertain, there are steps you can take to navigate this difficult period with hope and determination.
Rolando, your passion and dedication have brought your business this far, and with perseverance and faith, you can overcome this hurdle. Embrace the journey with an open heart, knowing that every setback is an opportunity for growth and renewal. You have the strength and vision to lead your business towards a brighter future, and we're here to support you every step of the way. With encouragement and faith, Angelo of OneLife Networx
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Hello Onelife Networx, My name is Joseph, and I'm reaching out to share a personal struggle that's been weighing heavily on my mind. I'm currently at a crossroads in my career, and I find myself torn between the comfort of a stable job and the allure of pursuing my true passion. For the past several years, I've been working in a corporate role that, on paper, seems ideal. The pay is excellent, the benefits are generous, and I've climbed the ladder to a position that many would envy. Yet, despite these apparent successes, I can't shake the feeling of emptiness that lingers at the end of each workday. You see, my heart has always been drawn to the arts. Ever since I was a child, I've found solace and joy in painting and creating. It's where I feel most alive, where time seems to stand still, and where I can truly express myself. But like many, I was taught to prioritize practicality and financial security over passion, leading me to the career path I'm on today. Lately, the internal conflict has become more pronounced. Each morning, as I prepare for another day at the office, I feel a growing sense of dread. The work that once seemed challenging now feels monotonous and uninspiring. I find myself daydreaming about what it would be like to turn my passion for art into a full-time career, to wake up each day excited about the work I do. However, the thought of leaving my stable job terrifies me. The financial security it provides is not something I take lightly, especially with responsibilities and commitments that rely on a steady income. The fear of the unknown, of potentially failing in a new venture, looms large in my mind. I've spent countless nights weighing the pros and cons, trying to envision a future where I can find both fulfillment and stability. But the path forward remains unclear. I worry about the risks involved, about whether my passion can truly sustain me financially, and about the impact this decision might have on my loved ones. I'm sharing my story here in the hope that others who have faced similar dilemmas might offer some insight or share their experiences. It's comforting to know that I'm not alone in this struggle, and I'm eager to hear how others have navigated the delicate balance between passion and practicality. Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story. Your support and understanding mean the world to me as I navigate this challenging chapter of my life. Warm regards, Joseph Our Reply:
Dear Joseph, Thank you for sharing your heartfelt story with us. It's not easy to open up about such a deeply personal struggle, and your courage in doing so is truly commendable. Many of us have faced similar crossroads, and your journey resonates with those who have felt the pull between stability and passion. Joseph, it's important to acknowledge the bravery it takes to even consider stepping away from the comfort of a stable job to pursue something that truly ignites your soul. The fact that you're contemplating this change speaks volumes about your desire to live a life that is authentic and fulfilling. Remember, the pursuit of passion is not just about finding joy in what you do; it's about aligning your work with your values and purpose. As you stand at this crossroads, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you. Imagine waking up each day, excited and energized by the work you do. Picture yourself immersed in your art, creating pieces that not only express your innermost thoughts and emotions but also inspire others. This vision is not just a dream; it's a possibility waiting to be realized. While the fear of the unknown is natural, it's important to remember that every great journey begins with a single step. Consider starting small, perhaps by dedicating a portion of your time to your art while maintaining your current job. This approach allows you to explore your passion without the immediate pressure of financial instability. Over time, as your confidence and skills grow, you may find opportunities to transition more fully into your artistic career. Joseph, trust in your abilities and the unique perspective you bring to your art. The world is always in need of new voices and fresh ideas, and your work has the potential to touch lives in ways you may not yet realize. Embrace the uncertainty as a part of the creative process, knowing that each challenge you face is an opportunity for growth and discovery. Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow artists and creatives who understand the journey you're on. Their encouragement and shared experiences can provide invaluable insights and motivation as you navigate this path. Remember, you are not alone in this pursuit; many have walked this road before you and have found fulfillment and success. As you contemplate this leap of faith, keep in mind that life is a series of choices, each leading us to new experiences and opportunities. Trust in your intuition and the passion that drives you. Whether you choose to pursue your art full-time or find a balance that works for you, know that you are taking steps towards a life that is true to who you are. Joseph, your story is a testament to the power of following one's heart. Embrace this journey with courage and optimism, knowing that you have the strength to create a life that is both meaningful and rewarding. We are here to support you every step of the way, cheering you on as you embark on this exciting new chapter. Regards, ANGELO of OneLife Networx Hello everyone, I'm reaching out today because I'm feeling overwhelmed and could really use some support. My name is Emily, and I'm currently facing a challenging situation with my partner, Mark. We've been together for several years, and while our relationship is strong in many ways, there's one area that seems to be a constant source of tension: our finances. Mark and I come from different backgrounds when it comes to money. I grew up in a household where saving was a priority. My parents always emphasized the importance of having a financial cushion for emergencies and future goals. On the other hand, Mark's family had a more relaxed approach to spending, focusing on enjoying the present moment rather than worrying too much about the future. This difference in upbringing has led to some significant disagreements between us. I tend to be more cautious with our finances, always thinking about the long-term implications of our spending habits. I believe in budgeting and setting aside a portion of our income for savings and investments. Mark, however, prefers to live more spontaneously, often suggesting we spend on experiences and things that bring immediate joy. Our differing perspectives have led to numerous arguments. It feels like we're constantly at odds, unable to find common ground. For instance, when it comes to planning vacations, I lean towards more budget-friendly options, while Mark prefers more extravagant trips. Even when it comes to everyday expenses, like dining out or buying new gadgets, we often find ourselves on opposite sides of the discussion. These disagreements have started to take a toll on our relationship. What used to be simple conversations now turn into heated debates, leaving both of us feeling frustrated and misunderstood. I worry that if we don't address this issue, it could create a rift between us that might be difficult to mend. I love Mark deeply, and I know he feels the same way about me. We both want to build a future together, but this financial stress is becoming a barrier to our happiness. I find myself questioning how we can align our financial priorities without compromising our individual values and desires. I'm sharing this here in the hope that others who have faced similar challenges might offer some insight or share their experiences. It's comforting to know that I'm not alone in this struggle, and I'm eager to hear how others have navigated similar situations. Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story. Your support and understanding mean the world to me. Warm regards, Emily Our reply:
Dear Emily, First, let me commend you for your courage in sharing such a personal and challenging aspect of your relationship. Financial disagreements are a common hurdle for many couples, and your willingness to address this issue head-on is a testament to the strength and love you share with Mark. Remember, every relationship faces its unique challenges, and it's how we navigate them that truly defines our journey together. Emily, it's important to recognize that your differing perspectives on finances are not a reflection of a lack of love or commitment. Instead, they highlight the diverse experiences and values that each of you brings to the relationship. Embrace this diversity as an opportunity for growth and understanding, rather than a source of conflict. Start by acknowledging the strengths in each other's approach. Your cautious nature and emphasis on saving provide a solid foundation for future security, while Mark's spontaneity and focus on enjoying the present bring joy and vibrancy to your lives. Together, you have the potential to create a balanced financial strategy that honors both your long-term goals and your desire to savor life's moments. Communication is key, Emily. Create a safe space where both of you can express your feelings and concerns without judgment. Approach these conversations with empathy and an open heart, seeking to understand rather than to convince. By actively listening to each other's perspectives, you'll uncover the underlying values and motivations that drive your financial decisions. Consider setting shared financial goals that align with both your priorities. Whether it's saving for a dream vacation, investing in a home, or building an emergency fund, having common objectives can foster a sense of unity and purpose. Celebrate each milestone you achieve together, reinforcing the idea that you are a team working towards a shared future. It's also important to allow room for individual financial autonomy. Consider setting aside a portion of your budget for personal spending, where each of you can indulge in your own interests without guilt or scrutiny. This approach respects your individuality while maintaining the integrity of your joint financial plan. Remember, Emily, that compromise is not about sacrificing your values, but about finding a middle ground where both of you feel respected and valued. It's about creating a partnership where each person's needs and desires are acknowledged and integrated into your shared life. As you navigate this journey, be patient with yourselves and with each other. Change takes time, and it's okay to have setbacks along the way. Celebrate the progress you make, no matter how small, and remind yourselves of the love and commitment that brought you together in the first place. Emily, your relationship is a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, trust, and shared experiences. By embracing your financial differences with compassion and understanding, you have the power to strengthen the bond you share with Mark. Trust in your ability to overcome this challenge, and know that you are not alone on this journey. With warmth and encouragement, ANGELO of OneLife Networx Hello everyone, My name is Michael, and I'm reaching out to share a part of my life that I've kept hidden for too long. I'm in my mid-30s, and for as long as I can remember, I've been haunted by a lingering sense of uncertainty about who I am and what I truly want in life. It's as if I'm wandering through a dense fog, searching for something I can't quite define. Growing up, I followed the expected path: I went to college, secured a stable job, and even bought a house. On the surface, everything seemed perfect. But beneath that facade, I felt a growing disconnect between the life I was living and the person I felt I was meant to be. It was as if I was playing a role in a movie, but the script didn't belong to me. I tried to ignore these feelings, hoping they'd fade with time. I threw myself into my work, thinking that success would fill the void. Yet, with each promotion and accolade, the emptiness only grew. I was achieving everything I was supposed to, but none of it brought the fulfillment I craved. The turning point came during a conversation with an old friend. As we reminisced about our younger days, he asked me a simple question: "What makes you truly happy?" I was stunned into silence. I realized I didn't have an answer. That question lingered in my mind, echoing in the quiet moments of my day. Determined to find clarity, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery. I started journaling, hoping to capture the elusive thoughts and feelings swirling within me. I sought therapy, a safe space where I could explore my fears and dreams without judgment. Slowly, I began to unravel the layers of expectations and societal norms that had clouded my sense of self. I discovered that my identity was not tied to my job title or material possessions. It was in the passions I had long neglected, the dreams I had set aside in pursuit of practicality. I found joy in creativity, in writing and painting, activities that allowed me to express the parts of myself I had hidden away. This journey hasn't been easy. There are still days when the fog returns, when doubt creeps in and whispers that I'm lost. But I've learned that it's okay to not have all the answers. Life is not a straight line; it's a series of twists and turns, each offering new lessons and opportunities for growth. I'm sharing my story in the hope that others who feel the same way might find solace in knowing they're not alone. It's okay to question, to explore, and to redefine what happiness means to you. Embrace the uncertainty, for it's in those moments of vulnerability that we often find our truest selves. Thank you for listening to my journey. I hope it inspires you to embark on your own path of self-discovery, no matter where you are in life. Warm regards, Michael Our reply:
Dear Michael, Thank you for sharing your story with such openness and courage. It's not easy to lay bare the struggles of identity and purpose, but your willingness to do so is truly inspiring. Your journey resonates deeply with many of us who have felt the weight of uncertainty and the quest for self-discovery. First and foremost, I want to commend you for taking the brave steps towards understanding yourself better. Seeking therapy, journaling, and exploring your passions are all powerful acts of self-love and growth. They show a profound commitment to finding your true self, and that is something to be incredibly proud of. Remember, life is a beautiful tapestry of experiences, each thread contributing to the masterpiece of who we are. It's okay to feel lost sometimes; it's in those moments of searching that we often stumble upon the most profound insights. Embrace the journey, Michael, with all its twists and turns. It's not about the destination but the discoveries you make along the way. Your story is a reminder that it's never too late to redefine what happiness means to us. The fact that you've found joy in creativity and expression is a testament to your resilience and willingness to explore new facets of yourself. Hold onto those passions, for they are the compass guiding you towards fulfillment. Thank you for being a beacon of hope for others who may feel similarly adrift. Your story offers comfort and assurance that they are not alone, and that there is always a path forward, even if it's not immediately clear. By sharing your journey, you've helped create a community of understanding and support, where we can all learn from each other's experiences. As you continue on this path, know that you are surrounded by a network of people who admire your strength and courage. We are here to cheer you on, to celebrate your victories, and to support you through the challenges. You are not alone, Michael, and your journey is a source of inspiration to us all. Thank you once again for your honesty and vulnerability. May you continue to find peace, joy, and clarity as you navigate the beautiful complexity of life. Keep shining your light, and know that you are making a difference, one step at a time. With gratitude and admiration, Angelo of Onelife Networx Hi OneLife, I hope you don't mind me sharing my story here. I'm at a crossroads in my life, and I could really use some advice. My name is Sarah, and I've been in a committed relationship with my partner, Alex, for the past ten years. We've built a life together, sharing countless memories, dreams, and challenges. Alex has been my rock, my confidant, and my best friend. But lately, things have changed, and I'm feeling incredibly torn. A few months ago, I met someone new at a friend's party. His name is Jake, and from the moment we started talking, there was an undeniable spark. It was as if we had known each other forever. Our conversations flowed effortlessly, and I found myself drawn to his energy and passion for life. We exchanged numbers, and what started as friendly chats quickly turned into something more. I never intended to develop feelings for Jake, but here I am, caught in this whirlwind of emotions. When I'm with him, I feel alive in a way I haven't felt in years. He challenges me, inspires me, and makes me laugh. It's exciting and new, but it's also terrifying because I never imagined I'd feel this way about someone other than Alex. Alex and I have a solid foundation, but over the years, our relationship has become comfortable, maybe too comfortable. We've fallen into routines, and while there's a deep love and respect between us, the spark that once ignited our passion seems to have dimmed. We've talked about it, tried to rekindle the romance, but nothing seems to stick. It's like we're two ships passing in the night, connected but distant. Now, I'm faced with an impossible decision. Do I stay with Alex, the person who knows me better than anyone, who has been there through thick and thin? Or do I explore this new connection with Jake, risking everything I've built with Alex for the possibility of something different and potentially more fulfilling? The guilt is overwhelming. I never wanted to hurt Alex, and the thought of breaking his heart is unbearable. Yet, I can't ignore these feelings for Jake. They keep me up at night, swirling in my mind, making it hard to focus on anything else. I've tried to weigh the pros and cons, imagining my life with each of them. With Alex, there's stability and history, a shared life that feels like home. With Jake, there's excitement and potential, a chance to rediscover parts of myself I've long forgotten. But what if I'm just chasing a fantasy? What if this is just a fleeting infatuation that will fade over time? I wish there was a clear answer, a sign pointing me in the right direction. But life isn't always that simple, and matters of the heart rarely are. I've considered talking to a therapist, hoping they might offer some clarity, but I'm scared of what I might uncover. So here I am, reaching out to you all, hoping for some guidance, some words of wisdom. Have any of you been in a similar situation? How did you navigate the complexities of love and loyalty? I know ultimately the decision is mine to make, but hearing your experiences might help me find the courage to follow my heart, wherever it may lead. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your support and advice mean the world to me. Warmly, Sarah OUR REPLY: Dear Sarah, First, let me say how brave you are for sharing your story with such honesty and vulnerability. Love, in all its forms, is a complex and beautiful journey, and your willingness to seek guidance shows the depth of your care for both Alex and Jake. Navigating the heart's desires is never easy, but it's a journey worth taking, filled with opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and ultimately, peace. Sarah, it's important to remember that life is not about choosing between right and wrong, but rather about finding what resonates with your true self. Your heart is speaking to you, and though its voice may be a whisper now, it holds the wisdom of what you truly need. Trust that inner voice, for it knows the path to your happiness. In moments of uncertainty, take a step back and reflect on the essence of love itself. Love is not just about passion or excitement; it is a tapestry woven with threads of understanding, respect, and shared dreams. Consider what you value most in a relationship. Is it the comfort of a known embrace or the thrill of new beginnings? Both are valid, and both have their place in the story of your life. As you ponder your decision, remember that love is also about growth. Relationships are meant to challenge us, to push us beyond our comfort zones, and to help us become the best versions of ourselves. Ask yourself: Who do you become when you are with Alex? Who do you become with Jake? Which version of yourself feels truest and most alive? It's okay to feel torn, Sarah. It's okay to be uncertain. Life's greatest lessons often come from the spaces of discomfort and doubt. Allow yourself the grace to feel all your emotions without judgment. They are your compass, guiding you through the fog of indecision. Consider speaking with Alex about your feelings. Honesty, though difficult, can be incredibly freeing. It opens the door to deeper understanding and connection, even if the outcome is not what you initially hoped for. Trust in the love you and Alex have shared; it is strong enough to hold space for truth. And as for Jake, cherish the spark he has ignited within you. Whether or not you choose to pursue a relationship with him, let that spark remind you of your capacity for joy and passion. Sometimes, people enter our lives not to stay, but to illuminate paths we have yet to explore. Ultimately, Sarah, the decision lies within your heart. It may take time, and that's perfectly okay. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey. Embrace the uncertainty as a part of your growth, and trust that, in time, clarity will come. Remember, this is your story, and you have the power to shape it. Whatever path you choose, know that it is the right one for you at this moment. Life is a series of choices, each leading us to new experiences and insights. Trust in the journey, and trust in yourself. You are not alone, Sarah. We are all walking our own paths, learning and growing along the way. Lean on your friends, your family, and the community around you for support. They are there to lift you up, just as you have lifted us with your courage. May you find peace in your decision, and may your heart lead you to a place of love and fulfillment. With warmth and understanding, ANGELO of Onelife Networx
Dear OneLifeNetworx,
I have a neighbor who is also my kumpadre, one of his children is my inaanak. He is a stay-at-home dad and his wife is currently working as a top executive of a prestigious manufacturing company. His wife is the bread winner and my kumpadre is in-charge of taking care of their children. I am very close to their family in-fact, me and his family has this monthly tradition of spending lunch together every last Sunday of the month. My wife is also very close to his wife and they even call each other as kumare even if they are not. My problem is, my kumpadre is having an affair with one of our neighbor - who is also married. It was one Tuesday afternoon, I was leave from work, when I decided to drop by my kumpadre's house. When I was about enter their gate, I saw my kumpadre and our neighbor passionately kissing in a hidden portion of their garage. I did not bother them and I left secretly and hoping they did not noticed me. My kumpadre and I shared lots of personal secrets though I am not expecting that he will tell me everything including his current sexual affair with this neighbor of ours. I am just surprised that my kumpadre will go into that kind of activity for I have known him as a faithful husband and a loving father. I consider him as my best-friend and I don't want him to be involved in such affair for it will result to an eventual destruction of his relationship with his wife and his children. I don't know if I will talk to him about this or I will just pretend that I don't know anything. Please give me an advice. - Romeo This is our reply. Dear Romeo, For me, a true friend is not afraid to criticize you or point out your flaws. If you are a true friend to your kumpadre, you should be honest enough to tell him what you saw that Tuesday afternoon. If your kumpadre will admit to you that he is indeed having an affair with your neighbor, do not be afraid to tell him your fear of loosing his marriage and trust of his children if he will continue with his elicit affair. A friend has a responsibility to look after the welfare his friend, if you think your kumpadre's affair with your neighbor will put him in a bad state, you should be sincere enough to help him out of that relationship. If your kumpadre will not follow your advice despite your effort to convince him to move out of that immoral relationship, you are free of guilt if situation goes bad... because as far as you know, you did your part as his friend. I also believe that your role should be limited to your kumpadre only. I don't advise you to go straight to his wife to divulge what you know. Let your kumpadre face the music and let destiny decide whether he will be forgiven or will be disowned by his wife. Whatever will be his fate with his family, you should continue to be his friend and never abandon him if ever his wife decides to leave him because of his infidelity. A true friend accepts who you are, but also helps you become who you should be. Joshua Miguel OneLifeNetworx Dear Onelifenetworx, I am about to get married next year to my long-time girlfriend. We've been in a relationship for almost three years last Valentines day I finally proposed to her. Right now we are very busy with the wedding preparations. Unfortunately, we are having some disagreements on where we will stay after our wedding. She is insisting that we rent a separate house near our work in Makati. Our second option is to stay in my house in Mandaluyong which is also near Makati. However, my fiancee does not want to stay in my house because according to her, she might not get along with my mother. My mother just turned 70 years old. She is a single mom and she raised me and my younger sister by herself. My father left my mom when she was still pregnant with my younger sister. If I remember it right, I was four years old that time. My sister will also get married next year and she is planning to live with her future husband in New Zealand. If that will happen, my mother will be left all by herself. Of course I will not let that happen, that's why I want me and my wife to stay in our house in Mandaluyong so I can also look after my mom once my sister decide to settle in New Zealand. My dilemma is my future wife, I love her and I want to give her what she wants - which is to live separately with my mom. I also love my mom and I also want to take care of her. Please help me. -Nolan Here is our response. Dear Nolan, Congratulations on your soon to be wedding and we wish you and your future wife the best of life together! Marriage is sacred. When you get married, you and your wife will become one... both in the eyes of God and in the eyes of man. Unfortunately, marriage involves union of two personalities - you and your future wife. How to reconcile these two personalities are challenges that most couples will face once they enter the aisle of marriage. Irreconcilable personalities usually lead to divorce or separation. For a marriage to work (or any relationship as well), both parties should be wiling to compromise their differences in some point of their married life. One party should never "over" dominate the other for each party deserves a voice in all aspects of your relationship. There are certain perks that you freely enjoy during your single-hood years that you can no longer enjoy once you get married, one of those perks is making decisions by yourself without the consent of your partner. In your current issue with regards as to where you will settle down after your wedding, your future wife is correct that she might find it difficult to get along with your mom. Based on studies, most wives have problems getting along with their mother-in-laws as compared to husbands who are more adaptable with their in-laws. However, considering that your mom is already 70 years old, it is ungrateful of you if you will not take care of her. She took care of you and your sibling during the time when both your wings are still weak to fly. Now that you are strong and will enter a new chapter of your life, it doesn't mean that you will close your door to the person who nurtured you, who fed you, and to the one who took care of you when your feet are still weak to face the challenges of life. Your mother will always be your mother, her love towards her children is forever. Our obligation to our parents should not stop when we enter the phase of marriage. Having a family of our own should not be an excuse for not providing support to our parents. Now that they are aging, their minds and their bodies are slowly becoming weak. As children, this is the right time to give back the love that our parents gave us for their days in this world are already numbered. I believe that you and your wife have a soft spot in your heart to welcome your mom in your new chapter of your life. Let her be part of your new family. She deserves your care and your time. Someday, you will also get old like your mom. It will probably hurt you if your children will just abandon you when they start their own families right? Lets not just honor our parents. Let's love them! As the saying goes ... "Love your parents, we are so busy growing up, we often forget that they are also getting old." Joshua Miguel OneLifeNetworx Dear OnelifeNetworx, I am a 35 year old mother with two children aged 3 and 6 years old. I am currently working here at Toronto, Canada for almost five years as a part-time caregiver and as a part-time kitchen staff in a small restaurant near my apartment. I left the Philippines because I thought life here in Canada is better as compared to the Philippines. I left my managerial position in one of the largest bank in the Philippines and I also left my two children to my husband. Before I got married, I graduated as Cum Laude in one of the exclusive university in Manila. My boyfriend, now my husband was a restaurant owner of one of the coffee shop near our school. After I graduated from college, I easily got a job and my career was very successful. I got married to my boyfriend, then we had two wonderful daughters and our life was wonderful. Not until my husband's coffee shop went bankrupt. He lost his business and he was having difficulty establishing new ventures and it always fail. Our savings were wiped out because of his unsuccessful attempts to establish new business. He got depressed and he was very insecure with me because that time I was the one providing for the family. We always fight about our finances. He once accepted a full-time job as a sales manager but he quit after a few months because he is not used to working as an employee, he always insists that he wants to be an business owner. My salary can no longer support my family so I started looking for options. This is the reason why I end up here in Canada. I sacrificed my respectable position in the Philippines so I can work here in Canada as a caregiver during the day and I wash dishes in the evening. I feel so degraded, this is not the life I dreamed of. I have lost my pride, my dignity, and my confidence. I hate myself and my life for being in this situation. I don't know what to do with my life anymore. -Edna Here is our response. Dear Edna, Don't hate yourself or your life. All these challenges that you are currently experiencing are just temporary. These challenges are meant to make you stronger and wiser person so don't give up on yourself. Looking at your story, you have indeed accomplished so much! You finished college as an honor student, you had a great career, you are a wonderful mother and an understanding wife. And your greatest accomplishment was when you sacrificed all these blessings and chose a less prestigious job and a lonely life in Canada. You should consider that as an accomplishment because not many people can handle that. Don't look at your situation as a "demotion" of your social status. Instead, be proud that you are a selfless person in this selfish world. Always put in your head that every time you are doing all these care-giving and dishwashing, you are getting closer to making the lives of your family in the Philippines better. You are hurting because your situation took toll on your pride. This is the reason why you feel lowly of current job and this is the reason why you have lost confidence on yourself. Maybe at the back of your mind you are saying that a magna cum laude should be a high ranking officer of a big company and not a dishwasher by night. We totally understand that, that is human nature. Always remember this: Jesus, the son of God went in this world not to assert His Name as Son of God. Instead, He served the needy and He cured the sick. He was selfless that's why He gave His own life so that sinners like us can be saved. If the Son of God who is higher than all of us managed to set aside His pride so He can save us, who are we to complain if our pride will be tested in some part of our lives? Be grateful with what you have. Don't hate your life, live it and love it! -Joshua Miguel OneLifeNetworx Dear Onelife Networx, My wife and I separated last year, she left me for another man. We have two children, 10 and 15 years of age. I took both my children and we are now living with my parents. My children are aware of the situation especially the older one. However, my 10 year old child still keeps on asking for his mother. I always tell him that she is working abroad and I am not sure when she will come back. I know that I cannot forever hide our true situation from him, but the problem is my son is suffering from a mental disorder and if he becomes upset, he goes wild and he sometimes hurt himself. My 10 year old son really loves her mother. Every time he has a mental attack/seizure, the only person who can calm him down is his mother. Honestly, I am very worried about my son, I don't know what kind of life is in store for him. I am scared for his future. I know one of the reason why my wife left us is because of him. She once told me that she is already tired of taking care of our special child and she is scared of the responsibilities that she has to face. Now I am all by myself to carry those duties. Aside from being a provider, I still have to take care of my children's special needs and I am not sure if I'm as capable as my wife. I don't know how long I can hold on to this. I am still hurting from my marriage separation. I am also angry with my wife for leaving us. I am also very worried for my children and I don't know what to do anymore. I don't know where to start. Before I go to sleep, I can't help but cry. I have to be strong for myself and for my children but my heart is crying and feel helpless inside. Please help me. Hoping, Andrew Our reply: Dear Andrew Your first concern should be your 10 year old son, he needs special care and lots of attention. Since you have a full-time job, we think it would be difficult for you to handle his special needs and to focus on your job at the same time. We suggest you seek assistance of your parents (if they are still young to handle it) or you might want to seek professional services if you can afford it. We are not saying that you are not capable of taking care of your child, we just want to unload you so that you will have more energy to perform your job (which we believe is your only bread and butter as of now) and more energy to handle the day to day requirements of your family. Once you have secured your child's special requirement, you can now start healing your pain. Find someone, a friend or a close relative whom you can share your problems. Find a person who is willing to lend their ears or someone whom you can cry to. You need to unload the burden that you are carrying inside you. If you do not have such friend, your parents is your best option. Do not be scared to show them that you are in pain. Your parents will always be there for you. And finally, do not forget to seek help from our Creator, whatever you are facing now, it's all part of His grand master plan. Maybe this challenges that you are facing now will teach you important lessons in life that you will find very useful in the future. Continue to be strong. Dear Onelife Networx, I am a business owner of a fast-food restaurant in Manila. I have seven employees. We've been operating the restaurant for almost ten years already. However, profit is not so promising. In fact, most of the income I generate from the restaurant is not enough to support my family. This is also the reason why I am still keeping my regular job. I am also working as a branch manager of a medium sized bank. I am not really involved in the operations of my restaurant. But as an owner, I am not immune to the day to day problems of the business. And honestly, It sometimes affect my performance in my day job. Though I only visit the restaurant after my work since I leave the management of my restaurant to our Executive Chef. But sometimes, I still need to check on the restaurant during my office hours. My wife once told me to sell the restaurant while it's still in the black. Though profit is already becoming thin and we have to drop our mark-up because of competition. Lately, I realize that my business is no longer serving its purpose. I realized that I can survive financially without it as long as I keep my employment in the bank. However, I feel guilty because all of my employees are happy working in this restaurant. In fact, all of the current seven employees of the restaurant are the original employees when we started the business. Hoping for your advice. Respectfully, Jonathan Santos Our reply: Dear Jonathan, What is your life's purpose? To help others or to become rich? If your goal is just to earn money and become rich, I suggest you sell your restaurant. Besides, what's the point of having a business if this will not give you reasonable profit at the end of the day. A business, as defined by society, must generate profit for it to be considered successful. Let me ask you Mr. Jonathan, is this also your way measuring the success of your business? If yes, dispose your business as soon as possible. But if you are not a profit-centered person and if you believe that your business is an instrument in helping others thru the employment opportunities your restaurant is offering society, then keeping your restaurant is the best option. However, if you plan to keep the business, try to involve your employees in keeping this restaurant financially healthy. They are part of the business, your employees should not just be loyal, but they must also be productive and must contribute something to the success of the restaurant. Remember, you hired your employees to help you in your business. If your employees are not helping you, maybe its time to let them go. Helping your employees should be one of your priority as a business owner. However, some employees are abusive, lazy, and have no concern in the survival and success of your business. Most of these employees are just after their pay check and benefits they can reap from the company. If your employees have these symptoms, these employees do not deserve your generosity. |
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