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How frequently
have we come across the phrase: “The journey matters more than the destination!”? However, I
argue that it holds significance far beyond both elements. I strongly believe that the essence lies in being able to replay the
narrative multiple times.
This is where
the charm of transforming into a storyteller emerges. Certainly, the recounting can happen through presentations in front of close ones, particularly with non-verbal cues
that emphasize the key moments. Although I could have utilized my Toastmasters background if I
had chosen that path, I prefer retelling quietly on paper, more intimately,
meant for eternity.
Commencing the Journey
Wasn’t Easy
Initially,
it posed challenges; coming from a world inclined towards analytical thinking. With a degree in BS Mathematics
and a profession in computing, it proved difficult to awaken the creative side of my
mind. My experiences were rooted in proving theorems, academic papers, theses, and dissertations. My debut
publication Carolina: Cruising to an American Dream came to life merely as a collection of
the daily journals I maintained while RVing across North America.
Another
challenge was my non-native English background. I originated from the slums of
Manila, learning basic English through scholarships at the
International School during high school, the National Science Development
Board during college, and from the multinational corporations I was a part of. Tagalog possesses a
distinct syntax from English. When my spouse reviewed my content during my initial
writing phases, the pages came back adorned in red corrections.
Progressing Towards Improvement
I have witnessed improvement in my
writing. After all, I have been dedicated to writing for thirteen years now.
However, there remains a slight deficiency in using idiomatic, colloquial English, the type
spoken in the lanes and residences of America. This is why I have the television playing throughout the day to continually absorb through listening. Unfortunately, it annoys Bill due to my preference for the more airy and well-lit sunroom
over my office. But that’s a bit too much information.
The desire to narrate stories better prompted
me to put effort into capturing better visuals. Images speak volumes and when combined with words, they enhance the recollection significantly. Even years after the events, it feels like they are unfolding before my eyes once again.
Cultivating More
Depth
There’s a plethora of experiences I have
shared from our global expeditions, but my time here is gradually depleting. Now that we are journeying less frequently, I find myself pondering more about our past adventures. Hence, I am the primary beneficiary, reaping the rewards of having documented our escapades.
As I delve into each story one by one, I evoke varied emotions and
reflections, delving into the insights acquired and lessons learned. Ihave discovered new topics to write about. Since transitioning, around my 70th year, I have composed more travel narratives than journals. This shift enabled me to release
my subsequent publication, Cruising Past 70. It’s Not Just about
Outward Voyages. It Encompasses the Inner Ones Too, a compilation of my essays and most popular
stories.
Post turning 75 last November, I am refining and resharing even those introspective
journeys. I suppose it’s part of the aging process and attaining more wisdom. While spending hours traversing from our “armchairs” or contemplating from our
“rocking” chairs, we continue to learn, aiding our beloved ones further.
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