My parents have recently retired. Finally, after 3 years of filing of application for my father's retirement, it has been approved. In 2012, my father was 57 and decided to go into retirement, but his company did not allow him. He was able to prove himself an asset to the company, thus, management pleaded with him to leave the employment at the retirement age, which is 65. However, within the last quarter of 2014, Papa set his mind on quitting. Perhaps, he really was tired of serving. Imagine, he worked hard as an engineer in Saudi Arabia for 3 decades. Who would not get tired of it? Moreover, my mom left her teaching job, too. I know they have been greatly desiring to take a rest and to enjoy life to the fullest.
I am gratified by their retirement but I feel emotional at the same time. Going over my parents' hardships in the past, especially Papa's 33 years of labour, pinches my heart. They endured everything just to give us a comfortable life. And now, it is their time to loosen up. I am excited for them! However, when I am in the state of over-analyzing the situation, I take fright. Retirement goes with white hair. I do not want them to get older.
Mama and papa are very simple. They never wished for affluence. You know what kind of life they like to have when they get much older? They just want to reside in our province, specifically in a small bungalow with a yard at the back where they can plant some vegetables and a pond next to it. Simple yet serene!
My parents left Saudi Arabia and went to the Philippines on April 27, 2015 with my little sister and 2 nephews. My little sister will be staying and studying there as well.
Now, Papa is a retired engineer whereas Mama is a retired teacher. But never will they retire from being the best parents. May God continue guiding us in the new chapter of our lives.
