Category: Life Chronicles

As the world of cryptocurrency continues to evolve and expand, there is a new player in the game that is making a lot of noise – the Pi Network. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, this innovative platform allows for mining through a mobile phone, making it accessible to everyone. So what is Pi Network and why is it creating such a buzz?

The Pi Network was first introduced in 2019 by a group of Stanford graduates. I first heard about it in 2022 from a financial advisor I met in a Facebook group. He told me about this new project and how it may have the potential to become successful in the future. As someone who is always open to new opportunities, I decided to give it a try. After all, it was free to join and there was nothing to lose.

I must admit, I was initially hesitant to join the Pi Network. I had heard about scams in the past involving cryptocurrencies and was wary of falling victim to one. However, after doing some research and learning more about the team behind the project, I decided to take the plunge and start mining.

Unlike Bitcoin, which requires complex and energy-intensive mining processes, Pi Network utilizes a unique consensus algorithm called “Proof of Work” that allows for mining through a mobile phone without draining its battery or slowing down its performance. This makes it accessible to a wider range of individuals who may not have access to expensive mining equipment.

Despite the skepticism surrounding its potential success, I continued to mine on my phone. I even convinced my husband and brother to join me on this journey. And six years after its inception, Pi Network was finally listed on exchanges. To my surprise and delight, the initial price had reached 2-3 dollars per coin.

But instead of rushing to sell my coins on exchanges, I decided to hold onto them. Why? Because unlike other cryptocurrencies that are solely seen as investments or digital assets, Pi Network is designed as a utility coin. This means that it can be used for various purposes within the ecosystem, such as purchasing goods and services or accessing exclusive features in the Pi Network apps.

This is what sets Pi Network apart from other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. While Bitcoin is primarily seen as a store of value or a speculative investment, Pi Network has a practical use within its own ecosystem. And with the increasing popularity and adoption of the Pi Network, the value of the coin is expected to rise even further.

Another thing that makes Pi Network stand out is its focus on creating a more inclusive and sustainable financial system. While other cryptocurrencies may be limited to those who have access to advanced technology and resources, Pi Network’s mobile mining allows for anyone with a smartphone to participate in the network and earn pi coins.

Moreover, the team behind Pi Network is constantly working on developing new features and partnerships to enhance the platform’s usability and value. This includes collaborations with other businesses and organizations, as well as the development of their own decentralized applications (dApps) that will utilize the Pi coin.

As someone who has been a part of this project since its early days, I can confidently say that being a part of the Pi Network has been a rewarding experience. Not only am I able to earn some passive income through mobile mining, but I am also contributing to the growth and success of this innovative platform.

While there may have been doubts and uncertainties surrounding the Pi Network in its early stages, it has proven to be a legitimate and promising project. With its unique approach to mining, practical use within its ecosystem, and focus on inclusivity and sustainability, it has the potential to revolutionize the world of cryptocurrency. So don’t miss out on this opportunity, join the Pi Network today and be a part of shaping our financial future. Click Here

Sometimes, the most profound insights come when we least expect them. For me, it was in the stillness of the night, after a long day of work, when I stumbled upon a YouTube video that would change my perspective on life, pain, and forgiveness.

I work late into the night, often finishing around 3 AM, and like many others, I sometimes struggle to fall asleep right after a busy day. In those quiet moments, I find myself scrolling through social media or watching videos, reflecting on the events of the day, and thinking about what’s to come tomorrow. Recently, I found myself drawn to something I never thought would captivate me: Near-Death Experience (NDE) testimonies.

Over the past few months, I’ve watched countless stories of people who have experienced what many would call the “afterlife.” These accounts share common themes: a tunnel, a light, encounters with loved ones, and an overwhelming feeling of peace and love. I’ve always believed in God, and being in my mid-40s, I’ve started to think more about the idea of death—its pain, its mystery, and what might lie beyond. Although I’ve been taught about it in church, hearing real stories from people who have experienced these profound events makes the concept of the afterlife feel more real to me.

One night, as I lay in bed, I came across an interview with Penny Wittbrodt, and her words touched me deeply. There were a few things she said that really made me stop and think. During her out-of-body experience, she encountered her grandmother, who had passed away, and they shared a conversation. Her grandmother told her, “There is no death. We all are energies, and energy cannot be created nor destroyed, it just changes forms and that’s God’s law borrowed by man” That statement resonated with me on a spiritual level. It gave me a sense of peace about the idea of life and death—reminding me that our essence, our energy, lives on even after our physical bodies are gone.

Also, during her life review, she spoke about how God showed something powerful to her—how she had harbored negative thoughts toward a nurse she didn’t like. But through a vision, God showed Penny the nurse’s past life, helping her understand that the nurse’s behavior stemmed from her own painful experiences. It was a reminder that our negative emotions and judgments towards others only contribute to more pain and negativity in our own lives. It became clear to me that healing—both for myself and for others—comes from understanding, compassion, and letting go of resentment.

One of the most moving moments of Penny’s story was when she asked God why she had to go through the pain of a divorce. God responded, “You had to experience this so that you could help others who will face the same thing.” That hit me like a ton of bricks. I, too, have faced struggles in my personal life—anger, bitterness, and feelings of resentment toward people who have hurt me. But Penny’s story made me realize something powerful: I am not the only one carrying this pain. People who hurt me have their own struggles, their own wounds, and their own reasons for their actions.

As I reflected on this, I began to feel a shift in my heart. Instead of holding onto anger toward those who have wronged me, I started to feel compassion for them. They, too, are products of their own life experiences, just as I am. We are all in this journey together, trying to survive, heal, and grow. This was my awakening.

At that moment, I knew I needed to change the way I treat others. I couldn’t let anger control my heart anymore. Compassion is what will guide me moving forward. This realization was especially important because, at the time, I was in the middle of a family conflict. I could feel the weight of the anger and hurt, but Penny’s words reminded me that healing starts with understanding and empathy.

But the story doesn’t end there. After watching the video, I decided to check my social media one last time before going to bed. And then I saw it—something that felt like a message straight from God. It was a reel with music and written words that spoke directly to my heart:

“I will put you together in front of those who broke you. Don’t think it wasn’t seen by me. You will not only recover, but you will flourish in the places where you felt abandoned and defeated. You will stand strong and victorious. Remember my child, my plans for you are to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future. Let your heart be at peace, for I am with you in every step of this journey. Mending every fracture, healing every wound, and restoring every lost hope. Where you were once shattered, now you will shine like a Beacon, reflecting my love and strength. Trust Me for I am your faithful protector, your healer, and your redeemer. Do not dwell on the past or the pain it brought. Instead, lift your eyes to the horizon where My promises unfold. You will see that My grace is sufficient for you even in your weakest moments. Let your spirit rejoice, for you are being rebuilt stronger than ever. Not just to withstand the trial, but to help others who walk in similar paths.”

I couldn’t stop repeating those words. For the first time, they felt like they were written just for me. I’ve read the Bible since I was young, but never before had a verse spoken so directly to my heart. Was this a sign? Was God speaking to me in that moment? I couldn’t help but wonder. It felt like the answer to the questions I had been asking all along.

In that stillness, I realized that I am not alone in my struggles. There is a bigger plan at work, one that I may not fully understand yet, but I know it’s unfolding with purpose. And I am not just surviving my pain—I am being molded and shaped for something greater. My past struggles will not define me; instead, they will empower me to help others who walk a similar path.

Today, I choose to let go of resentment. I choose compassion. I choose peace. And I choose to trust that everything I’ve been through, and everything I am still going through, is shaping me into someone who can heal, help, and inspire others. Because sometimes, the greatest lessons come in the quietest moments—when we are ready to listen, reflect, and embrace the transformation that is happening within us.

I hope this story touches you as it touched me. If you’re struggling, know that you are not alone. Keep going. There is purpose in your pain, and healing is possible.

Living in a small town, our primary mode of transportation has always been tricycles. I have always worried about the cost and reliability of public transportation for our daily commute to school and the market. The expenses can quickly add up and the dependability of these tricycles was always a concern. That’s why I finally took the step to purchase the Yadea C16, a three-wheeled electric vehicle (EV) as our family’s service vehicle. The decision has proven to be beneficial for us, significantly improving our daily lives and easing my worries about transportation costs and reliability.

First of all, let’s talk about the cost savings. I am always looking for ways to cut expenses and save money for my family. Before we got the C16, we were spending a lot of our budget on transportation costs. But now that we have this reliable and efficient EV, we have noticed a significant decrease of more than 50 percent in our transportation expenses. Not only is it saving us money on gas, but also on maintenance costs. The Yadea C16 is known for its low maintenance needs, making it an affordable option in the long run.

But it’s not just about the cost savings – it’s also about being environmentally friendly. As our world becomes increasingly affected by climate change, it’s more important than ever to make conscious decisions about our carbon footprint. The Yadea C16 is an electric vehicle, meaning it runs on electricity rather than fossil fuels like gasoline or diesel. This not only reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, but it also helps to decrease our dependence on non-renewable resources. By choosing an EV like the Yadea C16, we are doing our part in preserving the environment for future generations.

One of the main reasons we chose the Yadea C16 among other electric vehicles is because of its durability. We wanted a vehicle that we could rely on for a long time, and the C16 exceeded our expectations. With its high-quality design and finish, it looks and feels like a premium vehicle. We were particularly impressed by the riding experience – the built-in suspension makes it incredibly comfortable, even on bumpy roads. We did a 30 km test drive and were pleased with how well it performed uphill and downhill. And thanks to its self-charging feature, the battery lasted well throughout our trip.

Speaking of the battery the Yadea C16 boasts an impressive TTFAR energy recycle system graphene battery. This advanced battery not only has a long lifespan, but also utilizes downhill drives to self-charge, making it a highly efficient choice for environmentally-conscious consumers. Its use of graphene technology ensures a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for powering the vehicle.

Of course, like any vehicle, there are some cons to consider when choosing the Yadea C16. One potential drawback is that getting into the driver’s seat may be a bit tricky for those on the larger side. It’s also not the fastest vehicle out there, so if you’re looking for a speed demon, this may not be the best option. However, for city driving, school runs, or trips to the market, it is more than sufficient. It’s also worth noting that the braking system uses drum brakes instead of disc brakes, so be sure to have enough clearance when braking. But overall, these are minor issues compared to the numerous benefits of owning an electric vehicle like the Yadea C16.

I highly recommend considering the Yadea C16 as your next EV purchase. It has definitely met and exceeded our expectations in terms of cost savings, reliability, and environmental impact. I am proud to say that we have made the right choice in choosing this brand among other vehicles that are 50 percent cheaper. So why not join the electric vehicle revolution and make a positive impact on both your wallet and the environment? I am sure you won’t regret it

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I want to share with you a personal experience that has greatly impacted my life and has taught me a valuable lesson. I have always struggled with my self-esteem, especially during my teenage years. The constant battle with my skin condition, skin asthma, had left me feeling insecure and conscious about myself.

I remember envying other teenagers who could confidently wear shorts and skirts without worrying about their appearance. I longed to express myself through fashion, but my skin condition held me back. As a result, I isolated myself from the crowd and spent most of my time alone.

During these alone moments, I found myself talking out loud to myself and crying. It may seem strange to some, but for me, it was therapeutic. It was during these self-conversations that I found my inner strength and resilience. I have always considered myself as my own best friend, but it wasn’t until then that I truly understood the meaning behind it.

Talking to myself allowed me to release all my pent-up emotions and feelings. It was a way for me to acknowledge and confront my insecurities, fears, and doubts. And every time I did so, I felt a sense of relief and clarity. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

But it wasn’t just about venting out my problems; it was also about finding solutions. As I talked through my issues with myself, I could come up with different perspectives and ideas on how to handle them. It helped me think more clearly and find ways to overcome the challenges I faced.

And the best part? My inner self never judged me or criticized me for my flaws or mistakes. It was always there for me, providing comfort and understanding. It made me realize that sometimes, we need to be our own best friend before we can truly be a good friend to others.

In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by people, whether in person or through social media. We tend to seek validation and acceptance from others, forgetting to give ourselves the love and care we deserve. We often rely on others to make us feel good about ourselves, but what happens when they are not around? That’s where the importance of self-talk comes in.

Talking to yourself is not a sign of madness or loneliness, as some may perceive it to be. It is an essential tool for self-reflection and self-discovery. It allows us to understand ourselves better and work on our weaknesses while also appreciating our strengths.

I encourage you to take some time for yourself every day and have a conversation with your inner self. Talk about your day, your thoughts, your fears, and your dreams. Acknowledge and accept your imperfections and celebrate your achievements. Love yourself as your own best friend.

And when you face challenges and struggles in life, remember that you have a strong and resilient friend within you who will always be there to listen and guide you through them.

I want to leave you with this quote by the famous poet Rupi Kaur: “You are your own soulmate. You complete you.” So, talk to yourself, listen to yourself, and love yourself. Trust me; it will make all the difference in your life.

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”:

1. Acceptance: Just like Jose accepted that he could not retrieve his lost slipper, we must also accept that the relationship has come to an end. It may be a difficult and painful realization, but it is necessary for us to move on.
2. Letting go: Once we have accepted the situation, it is important to let go of any bitterness or resentment towards the other person. Holding onto negative feelings will only prolong our healing process. Instead, try to remember the good times and cherish the memories.
3. Focus on the present: It’s natural to dwell on the past and what could have been, but it’s important to focus on the present and look towards the future. Take this opportunity to rediscover yourself and pursue your own passions and interests.
4. Pray for the best: Just like Jose prayed for someone else to find and use his slippers, we can pray for the best for our past partner and their future. This can help us find closure and move on with a positive mindset.
5. Seek support: Moving on from a relationship can be tough, so don’t be afraid to seek support from your loved ones. Talk to them about your feelings and allow yourself to grieve. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who will help you through this tough time.
6. Stay positive: Remember that everything happens for a reason and that this experience will only make you stronger. Stay positive and have faith that better things are yet to come.

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.

The recent controversy surrounding a Filipino Gold Olympian and his mother sheds light on the toxic culture of entitlement in Filipino families. As the issue unravels, it is revealed that the mother’s disappointment and hurt towards her son stem from disagreements over money and his relationship choices. This situation has sparked an intense debate among netizens about the ingrained belief that children owe their parents everything, including financial support. But where did this mindset come from? Is it a cultural norm or a misguided belief? In my opinion, this toxic culture is deeply rooted in the traditional Filipino values of filial piety and respect for elders, which have been taken to extreme lengths. It is time for us to examine and challenge these beliefs and strive for healthier parent-child relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.

Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that the Bible teaches us to love and honor our parents. However, it also warns parents not to provoke their children to anger. This means that while children have a moral obligation to love and respect their parents, parents also have a responsibility to nurture and guide their children with love and understanding.

In the case of the Gold Olympian’s mother, it is possible that she may have failed to fulfill her role as a loving and supportive parent while her son was growing up. Perhaps she saw her son’s athletic talents as a means to fulfill her own needs and desires rather than focusing on his well-being as a child. And now that he has achieved success and fame, she feels entitled to reap the benefits and financial rewards.

Secondly, we must remember the universal principle of sowing and reaping. Whatever we plant in our relationships, we will eventually harvest. If parents sow love, understanding, and support towards their children, it will be reciprocated without them having to demand it. On the other hand, if parents sow manipulation, guilt-tripping, and unrealistic expectations on their children, they will eventually reap resentment and distance in their relationship.

Moreover, it is important for parents to recognize that their children do not belong to them. Yes, they came from you and you have raised them with love and care. But children are not possessions that can be controlled and manipulated. They are individuals with their own dreams, goals, and choices. It is not fair for parents to demand their children to fulfill their unmet dreams or responsibilities.

Parents should also learn to be content with the life that their spouse has given them. It is not the responsibility of their children to fill in the gaps or make up for what their spouse couldn’t provide. Children should not feel burdened or guilty for something that they have no control over.

Furthermore, respect should always be present in any parent-child relationship. No matter how old a child is, they are still deserving of respect from their parents. This includes respecting their choices in life, especially when it comes to who they love. Parents should refrain from interfering in their adult child’s relationships or manipulating them into making certain decisions. This only causes strain and resentment in the relationship.

Lastly, parents should also learn to keep private matters within the family and not use their “mom” or “dad” card to gain sympathy from others. Sharing personal issues on social media only adds fuel to the fire and creates unnecessary drama and attention.

Children are individuals who deserve love, support, and respect from their parents. As for the son and his mother’s rift, let us hope that they can resolve their issues and move forward with a healthier and more understanding relationship. And for all parents out there, let us remember that our children are not our property but precious gifts from God. It is our responsibility to nurture and guide them with love and respect, not manipulate and demand from them.

Life is a journey full of ups and downs, challenges and triumphs, and experiences that shape us into the individuals we are today. But amidst all the chaos, have you ever stopped to ask yourself what the true meaning of life is? Are we simply here to work hard, face obstacles, and then eventually die? Is that all there is to it?

I used to be caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, constantly chasing after success and trying to keep up with society’s expectations. But one day, I stumbled upon a quote that really struck me: “Life is simple but people make it complicated.” It made me think about how many of us are so busy with our daily lives that we forget to slow down and appreciate the little things. We get caught up in the rat race, trying to meet everyone’s expectations and forgetting to take care of ourselves.

This quote resonated with me deeply because I could see it reflected in my own life. It was then that I made a decision to simplify my life and focus on what truly matters. Here are some things that I did to achieve a more simplified life:

1. Working from home

One of the first changes I made was to start working from home. This allowed me to be present for my children’s milestones and be there for them whenever they needed me. It also gave me the flexibility to create my own schedule and prioritize my family without compromising my work.

Of course, this may not be an option for everyone. It depends on your personality and circumstances, but if you have the opportunity to work remotely or have a home-based business, it can greatly improve your work-life balance and allow you to simplify your life.

2. Homeschooling my children

Homeschooling not only allowed me to take care of my children while still being able to work, but it also addressed my concerns about the school system. I wanted my kids to grow up with confidence in themselves and not be pressured to compete with their peers. Homeschooling also provided a safe and secure environment for my children, free from the negative influences that often exist in traditional school settings.

I have found that it has brought so much more meaning and fulfillment. I am not saying that everyone should homeschool their children, but for me, it was the best solution to simplify my life as a working mom. It allowed me to slow down and truly enjoy every moment with my children, something that I couldn’t do if they were in traditional school.

3. Prioritizing time with family

I also made the difficult decision to ask my husband, who works overseas, to come home and be with our family. This meant that we had to exchange roles as parents, with me becoming the breadwinner while he takes on a more active role in parenting. It was a tough adjustment at first, but it has brought our family closer together and allowed us to create more meaningful memories.

This set-up may seem unconventional to some, but we don’t care. What matters to us is that it works for our family and brings us genuine happiness. We have found a balance in our roles and responsibilities, and it has brought us closer as a couple and as parents to our children.

4. Choosing my battles wisely

Another important aspect of my life that I have learned to simplify is my relationships with others. I have always been a firm believer in the saying, “choose your battles wisely.” This means that not all problems or conflicts are worth fighting for. Some are better off ignored and avoided. This applies not only to situations but also to the people we interact with.

I have learned to choose the people I surround myself with. I gravitate towards those who bring positivity into my life and avoid those who bring unnecessary drama and negativity. Of course, there are some people that we cannot avoid, like colleagues or family members, but in those cases, I have learned to just live with it and not expect too much.

Simplifying our lives doesn’t just apply to parenting, but it can be beneficial in all aspects of our lives. Whether it’s decluttering our homes, reducing our commitments, or focusing on what truly matters, simplifying can bring about a sense of calmness and contentment.

Life is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed through. We need to learn to take a step back and appreciate the little things around us. Spend time with loved ones, go for a walk in nature, read a book, or simply do nothing at all. These are the moments that truly matter in life.

Let’s remember that life is simple, and it’s up to us not to make it complicated. We don’t have to conform to society’s expectations or constantly strive for success. Instead, let’s focus on what truly makes us happy and brings meaning to our lives. As for me, simplifying my life has been the best decision I’ve ever made. So I challenge you to ask yourself, what can you do to simplify your life today?

As I sit here, looking out the window of my small, cramped office, I can’t help but daydream about my future retirement. Fifteen years from now, I will be approaching the golden years of my life. And what better way to spend it than in the beautiful and serene highlands? With its lush greenery, crisp mountain air, and peaceful surroundings, the highlands have always held a special place in my heart. And so, as I plan for my retirement, I find myself dreaming of the perfect home where my husband and I can spend our days together.

In my mind’s eye, I see a small yet modern house nestled in a quiet corner of the mountains. Surrounded by colorful flowers and a neatly manicured garden, this house will be our little piece of paradise. But what truly sets this home apart is the greenhouse right beside it. As someone who has always had a passion for gardening, this greenhouse will be my sanctuary. It will be where I can cultivate my own fruits and vegetables, all while surrounded by an array of succulents and other beautiful plants.

One of the main concerns when living in the highlands is access to water. However, in my dream retirement home, this will not be an issue. The house will have a jet pump well system, ensuring a steady supply of clean and fresh water. And to further promote sustainability, the house will also have solar panels to provide us with a reliable source of electricity.

But what truly makes this home special is the outdoor kitchen that overlooks the breathtaking views of the mountains. Equipped with all the necessary amenities, this will be where my husband and I can relax and enjoy our meals. We will have breakfast overlooking the sunrise and sipping coffee as we watch the sunset. And the best part? We will have freshly picked fruits and vegetables from our own garden to enjoy.

As I imagine our life in this dream retirement home, I can’t help but feel a sense of tranquility and contentment. It will be a place where we can escape the chaos and noise of the city, and simply enjoy each other’s company. A place where we can slow down, appreciate the beauty of nature, and create new memories.

Of course, I also envision this home as a place for our children to visit. As much as my husband and I would love to have them with us all the time, we understand that they have their own lives to lead. However, I can already picture them coming back to visit us in this dream retirement home, bringing their own families along. And as we gather around the outdoor kitchen table, catching up and reminiscing on old memories, I know that this will be a cherished place for all of us.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But as I approach my retirement, I realize the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. And in my mind, there is no better place to do that than in the highlands, surrounded by nature and with the one I love by my side.

As I continue to plan for my future retirement, I can’t wait for the day when my dream retirement home becomes a reality. It will be a place filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. A place where I can truly call my own. Until then, I will hold on to this dream and look forward to the day when it becomes a beautiful reality.

As parents, we always want the best for our children. We strive to create a loving and nurturing environment for them to grow and thrive in. However, despite our best efforts, we often face challenges and struggles in our parenting journey. And one of the most difficult struggles for me has been dealing with unsolicited advice and toxic criticism from family members.

I have to be very honest, despite growing up in church, I grew up confused. I developed anger issues and resentment because of chaos in the home. So when I become a parent myself, I promised that I would try my best to create a peaceful and loving environment for my children. I was fortunate to have found someone who shared my ideals with. Everything has been going smoothly for us except for the influence of family members around us.

From the moment I became a mother, I have faced a lot of hurtful words from people who are supposed to emotionally support me. It started with hurtful comments when I lost my first child. Out of anger, someone told me that I was not taking care of myself which is why I lost my child. It was like a stab to the chest, a pain that I will never forget.

When I had my son, the pressure and criticism only intensified. Every decision I made as a parent was scrutinized. Every time I got those criticisms, my immediate response was anger – just like how I had always reacted as a child. This resulted in me being tagged as a difficult person by everyone.

The most frustrating part is that these criticisms came from loved ones who, in my opinion, did not even succeed in their own parenting. Some of them never even experienced having their own children and family. Yet they try to portray that they have better discipline styles than me. And the worst part is that they try to undermine my parenting and slowly plant bad seeds in my children’s hearts.

One particular incident that stands out to me is when I decided to homeschool my kids. My family’s reactions were less than supportive – they would constantly comment and worry about my children’s social skills. They would say things like, “Your kids won’t be able to interact with other children” or “They will miss out on important life experiences.”

But what they fail to understand is that every parenting journey is unique and what works for one family may not work for another. Homeschooling was a decision my husband and I made after careful consideration and research. We believe that it is the best option for our children’s education and overall well-being.

It is disheartening to constantly face such negative and unsolicited comments from the people I love and trust. It has taken a toll on my mental health and has created a strained relationship with some family members. But as a parent, I have learned to focus on what’s best for my children and not let these criticisms affect me.

I have also come to realize that these criticisms often stem from their own insecurities or their own parenting failures. It’s easier for them to criticize and judge rather than acknowledge their own mistakes. And instead of trying to understand my perspective, they choose to belittle my decisions.

As parents, we need to remember that we are the ones who know our children best. We are the ones who have their best interests at heart. It’s important to listen to advice from others, but ultimately, we have to make decisions based on what we feel is right for our family.

Dealing with unsolicited advice and toxic criticism can be difficult, but it’s important to set boundaries and stand up for ourselves and our parenting choices. We need to communicate calmly and assertively with our family members, explaining our reasoning behind our decisions.

At the end of the day, our children will grow up seeing how we handle criticism and conflict with grace and strength. They will also see how we prioritize their well-being and happiness above other people’s opinions. And that, in my opinion, is the best lesson we can teach them.

So to all the parents out there facing similar struggles, know that you are not alone. Parenting is a tough journey, and we all make mistakes and face challenges along the way. But let’s not let the criticisms and judgments of others bring us down. Let’s focus on creating a loving and nurturing environment for our children, and everything else will fall into place.