When A Daughter’s Card Sparked an Awakening — Reflections You Can Relate To

Yesterday, as I celebrated my 50th birthday, the lovely hand-made card from my daughter, Mansa, stirred something deep within. It wasn't just a piece of paper with colorful wishes. It acted as a mirror — reflecting a version of me through her innocent and loving eyes, words, and feelings.

"Dear Papa, Happy Birthday! It's party time! It is not just your birthday, but also a precious day for me. The day you were born is equally special to me. I am lucky to have a father like you, a man who is gentle, sweet, kind, helpful, and calm. You are my role model. You shine like the brightest star in the night sky. You look different with your wonderful eyes reflecting joy and happiness. You are always happy, cheerful, enthusiastic, joyful and full of positivity. You teach me technology, vocabulary, and organizing tasks. Let's celebrate this special day with laughter and togetherness! Enjoy!"

Her words filled me with warmth and a deep sense of joy, yet a small voice within wondered and I couldn’t shake the lingering thought — Am I really all of that?

A Life on the Fast Track

The last two and a half decades rushed past like a whirlwind.

• Will to Learn and Grow: The eagerness to grow professionally and personally kept pushing forward. Each challenge became an opportunity.

• Work, Work, Work: As an IT engineer, the demands were endless. Deadlines, meetings, and tasks dictated the days. Dedication became a badge of honor.

• Loyalty and Dedication: The company became a second home. While work received undivided attention, personal ambitions and goals took a backseat.

• Family in the Background: Providing for the family was a priority. While ensuring they had the best, the warmth of laughter at the dinner table and cherished family time sometimes slipped away.

• Health Somewhat Ignored: A sedentary lifestyle and lack of self-care often took a toll. Work remained the focus, pushing health and well-being aside.

Key Achievements to Cherish

• A career that provided stability and growth.

• Relationships that stood through thick and thin.

• The privilege of raising a daughter who fills life with joy.

• The lessons learned through challenges and triumphs.

• Moments of joy, big and small, that life brought along the way.

The Missed Moments

• Pals Became Distant: Friendships faded not by intention, but by inaction. Conversations began with "We should catch up" and ended with "Let’s plan soon." But the plans never materialized.

• Family Time Wasn’t Enough: While time was spent with family, more time was devoted to work. Responsibilities took precedence, and the depth of connection sometimes lacked.

• Some Joys Overlooked: The books once loved gathered dust. The tapes and cassettes once cherished were sealed away in forgotten cartons. Passions were silently traded for responsibilities.

• Personal Milestones Unnoticed: Celebrating small personal wins took a backseat. The satisfaction of completing tasks overshadowed simple joys.

• Self-Reflection Deferred: In the pursuit of progress, moments of introspection were often postponed.

The Wake-Up Call

While it’s not that bad, Mansa’s words stood there, steady and clear, reminding me of the priorities I may have sidelined.

• Am I the father she believes I am?

• Can I truly become the man she sees in me?

• Can I balance work and personal life better?

• Am I caring enough for my health?

• How can I make the moments with my family more meaningful?

The realization struck — It’s never too late.

The Path of Realization

• Reconnect with Friends: It’s time to make real plans and revive cherished friendships.

• Deepen Family Bonds: Spend quality time with loved ones without distractions, building lasting memories.

• Self-Care Matters: Prioritize health, both physically and mentally, ensuring presence for those who matter most.

• Rekindle Joy: Pursue hobbies that brought happiness, be it music, reading, or exploring nature.

• Give Back: Contribute to society, mentor others, and make a positive impact.

Lessons Learned

• Success is Multifaceted: Beyond career accomplishments, success lies in laughter, peace, and presence.

• Health is Wealth: The body deserves care, not neglect.

• Time is Precious: Every moment counts, and those spent with loved ones are irreplaceable.

• Gratitude Multiplies Joy: True happiness comes from cherishing what’s already there.

• Balance is Key: Striking a balance between work and life enriches both.

Next Steps: The Road Ahead

• Work: Remains a priority, but shall not overshadow the other priorities of life. It's work, not work work work.

• Learn Learn Learn: Pursue knowledge beyond the profession, indulge in hobbies, and nurture curiosity.

• Share: Pass on experiences, mentor others, and create a ripple of growth.

• Give Back: Support causes, volunteer, and contribute to society.

• Health First: Commit to exercise, mindful living, and emotional well-being.

• Family and Friends: Be present. Celebrate milestones, enjoy everyday moments, and laugh more.

• Explore: Step out of the comfort zone, travel, and discover new perspectives.

A Promise to Self - A pact to live fully and meaningfully

1. Be Present with Loved Ones With laughter and heartfelt presence.

2. Care for My Health Because wellness fuels everything else.

3. Celebrate Small Joys They’re the real magic in everyday life.

4. Pause to Reflect Often Stillness reveals what speed hides.

5. Keep Learning, Always Curiosity keeps the soul awake.

6. Live with Purpose Don't just exist — make it count.

7. Say “No” Without Guilt To honor what truly matters.

A Thought to Hold On To

"Our loved ones see the best in us. Maybe it's time we see it too and become that reflection — not just for them, but for ourselves."

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