While helping my daughter with her assignment, I came across a meaningful and inspiring story. The anecdote, “Tsinelas ni Pepe” or “The Slippers of Pepe,” about our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, not only taught her about his life, but also imparted valuable lessons that resonate with everyone. In the story, the young boy Jose accidentally lost one of his slippers while on a boat ride with his older brother. The slipper fell into the river and was quickly swept away, leaving Jose feeling worried about his mother’s possible anger. However, instead of holding onto the remaining slipper, Jose made the decision to throw it into the river as well while praying for someone else to find and use them together. This story struck a chord with me and I couldn’t help but think about how it relates to relationships and moving on. We’ve all been through heartbreaks and breakups, whether in a romantic relationship, a close friendship, or with an object that we hold dear. We’ve all experienced that feeling of someone or something slipping through our fingers, and no matter how much we try, we can’t hold onto them. But just like Jose’s slippers, sometimes things are meant to go for a greater purpose. And that’s where the four S’s come into play – Sacrifice, Selflessness, Strength, and Surrender. SACRIFICE – Jose sacrifices his remaining slipper in the hopes that someone else would find and use both of them. Similarly, in relationships, there are times when we have to make sacrifices for the person we love. It may be compromising on our own desires or putting their needs before our own. But what happens when things don’t work out and we have to let go? SELFLESSNESS – When a relationship comes to an end, it can be easy to get caught up in our own pain and resentment. But just like Jose, we must remember to think about the other person and their happiness as well. It may seem difficult at first, but being selfless and letting go with grace can bring a sense of peace and closure. STRENGTH – It takes a great deal of strength to let go of something or someone that once meant so much to us. It’s not easy to say goodbye to someone who has been a big part of our life. We may feel weak and vulnerable, but it is important to remember that letting go takes courage and inner strength. But how do we find this strength? How do we move on from a relationship that has ended? Here are some tips in moving on based on the story of “Tsinelas ni Pepe”: SURRENDER – One more word that completes the lesson from this story is “surrender”. Sometimes, no matter how much we try or how badly we want something, it may not work out in our favor. In these situations, it’s important to surrender to the greater plan of the universe and trust that everything happens for a reason. The story of “Tsinelas ni Pepe” teaches us valuable lessons about sacrifice, selflessness, strength, and surrender when it comes to relationships and letting go. It may be a difficult process, but with acceptance, forgiveness, and support, we can move on and find happiness once again. So the next time life throws a curveball and you find yourself in a similar situation, remember the story of Pepe’s slippers and the lessons it holds.