A tempting offer to work abroad
Dear Nanay,
I have an opportunity to work abroad in Hong Kong and I am strongly considering it. But it will mean that I have to be away from my family for most of the year. It is more money for the family but it is also a big sacrifice. Should I go?
Linda
Dear Linda,
You have a difficult decision to make, but only you and your family can make that decision.
I think it boils down to asking yourself if the time away from your family is worth the extra income. Don’t forget that there are some things that money cannot buy.
The advantage, if your job is in Hong Kong, is that it is not that far away, so maybe you will be able to see your family more often than if you were working in Europe or America. They can come visit you every so often, or maybe you can come home whenever there is a holiday.
But be careful about too many trips or too many phone calls. Baka naman hindi mo napapansin nagagastos mo rin yung (You might not notice that you are already spending your) extra earnings mo that you should be saving. Kung ganoon, eh, di bakit ka pa nag-abroad? (If that’s the case, then why even work abroad?) If you will make the sacrifice, make sure that you put the additional income to the best use possible.
Sincerely,
Nanay
* * *
She’s Turning Sweet 16
Dear Nanay,
My parents are so strict with me. I am already 15 years old, turning 16 in February, and am already in high school. But they still treat me like a child. They don’t allow me to date or go out with my friends. What can I do to change their minds?
Malou
Dear Malou,
I understand how you feel and although I am sure you have heard this all before, you also have to understand why your parents are being strict with you. You are still so young and they are only trying to protect you and doing what they think is in your best interests. Naiintindihan ko ang magulang mo at kailangan intindihin mo rin sila. (I understand your parents and you need to understand them, too.)
So what should you do? I think you have to prove to them that you are mature and responsible enough for them to trust you. And trust is something that you will have to earn. You have to show them that you can stay out of trouble.
Maybe you can occasionally ask them if you can go out. For example, if you get a good grade, then ask permission. But as I said, you have to show them you are responsible. If your curfew is 11, come home at 10. Do not abuse whatever privileges you are given. When you have shown them you are responsible and they have learned to trust you, then slowly they will probably give you more freedom. And do well in your studies. Few things impress parents more than getting good grades.
Maybe you think that they are overprotective, but they are just doing it for your own good. Perhaps your parents are also having a hard time accepting that their little girl is growing up. Be patient. It will not be like this forever.
Sincerely,
Nanay
* * *
If you have a question, e-mail us at asknanay@nationalbookstore.com.ph or just drop your letter at drop boxes in all National Book Store branches nationwide.
