Too Busy Living (Part 1)

I was asked a pretty interesting question a couple of weeks ago — do I ever think about my mortality? It is more than an interesting question actually,  it is a deeply philosophical query. At some point we all reflect on our own mortality. This is one of the many things that we all share as human beings. We know that our time on this earth is finite. Everything comes to an end. It is this profound realization that forces us to come to terms with our purpose as a human being and the meaning of our lives.

My answer to this profound question is an equally complex yes and no. Yes, because I have thought about my own mortality. In some instances, I have thought about my death when I read several social media posts that I have already died numerous times! I remember someone excitedly approaching me, “Ser! Buhay pa kayo!” 

But I also think that age is a state of mind. The number that we refer to as our age is simply that — a number. Your real age depends on how you feel and more importantly, how you live your life. I have met people in their 30s and 40s who look like they are already 60 years old. In contrast, I have seen senior citizens who act and feel like they are in their teens. It is a classic case of mind over matter.

In my case, I feel like the Manny Villar who was just starting out as an entrepreneur in 1975 — full of vigor, excitement, and life. Today, I wake up early in the morning with the eagerness of a young boy about to go on an adventure. Frequently, I would jog before sunrise before I plunge into a series of meetings. I would finish my jog and walk just as the sun has risen. I love these simple moments when the sun gently caresses my face with its warmth tempered by the cool, crisp air. This is especially true whenever I jog at Floriad Lifestyle. I would always stop at the splendid fields of blooming and radiant sunflowers.

I have never contemplated retiring from business. Being an entrepreneur is in my DNA. This is what I do. From the very first time my mother and I walked from our house to the market to catch the early morning auction, I knew that this was what I wanted to do in my life. And I cannot retire from the life I have always lived since I was a kid. How many times have you heard of stories of old people becoming depressed and physically weak right after retirement? I think that is because people of our generation were brought up to work and work and work. Taking that away is like a death sentence.

And yes, I have thought about my legacy. I do not think about legacy in a self-obsessed, egotistic way. Legacy is not about statues or accolades but your positive impact on the lives of others—your family, your community, and your country. Whether you have invented a life-changing technology or you simply raised a beautiful family is of no consequence. What matters is that your life on earth mattered.

I believe I have served my country well as Speaker of the House and Senate President. I was a hardworking legislator who did everything I could for the nation. I also believe I have been successful as an entrepreneur and has left my mark in the private sector. I have helped millions of families get their dream houses. I am currently embarking on the biggest project of my career. In fact, I consider it as a legacy project — Villar City.

But more importantly, I would like to think that I have been a good husband and a good father. Cynthia and I have been loving and supporting each other since the day we met. And we have raised three intelligent, caring and thoughtful children who make us proud everyday. These are really the most significant aspects of life. 

The greatest legacy we can leave to our children are special, happy memories where you share moments together as a family. A simple lunch every Sunday, maybe a picnic or outing once in awhile. For me, one of the most memorable times in my life was whenever we would spend the holidays in the US and all of us would just lazily sit on the couch, watch a movie while munching on something.

Now, that’s a memory and a legacy I can be proud of. (To be Continued)

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