My grandmother always used to say, "Ang hindi Lumingon sa pinanggalingan, hindi makakarating sa paroroonan." (He who does not turn to the source, will not reach the destination). It may sound old-fashioned in today's fast-paced world, where everything seems to be changing at lightning speed. But there is wisdom in her words that cannot be ignored.

In this age of technology and instant gratification, we often forget to appreciate the journey that brought us to where we are now. We are so focused on reaching our goals and achieving success that we neglect to look back and acknowledge the people and experiences that have shaped us along the way.

Success may come easily for some, but true fulfillment comes from understanding and embracing our roots. Our elders have lived through times when life was much simpler, yet their values and principles remain relevant even in today's complex world.

As I reflect on my own journey and the lessons passed down to me by my grandparents, I realize that success is not just about reaching the top. It is about staying true to who we are, staying grounded in our values, and never forgetting where we came from. Only then can we truly appreciate the beauty of our accomplishments and the depth of our character.

Arsenio Antonio
ECPP European Community Projects Philippines (German Community)