April 10, 2025 l Manila Bulletin
Inspired by Holy Week, former Secretary of Health Jimmy Galvez Tan, “the Doctor of the Masses,” requested to interview me in his program on my “7 Last Words/Message” to my family.
Dr. Jimmy is a very good friend, my mentor, and a resource teacher in Flor’s Garden in medicinal plants, health, and wellness. I like to share my message with you:
To my dearest children Edmin and Maggi, Ted, Tricia and Tom, and grandchildren Nando, CJ, Nat, RB and Ef:
1. I Love You Dearly
You are all God’s gift to me and your Dad Lolo. We are so proud of you.
Always love and help take care of each other. And if I was ever too tough, please understand, it was never out of anger, but out of love — to help you grow strong and be independent.
2. I wish you to Live a Remarkable Life
Please Watch Rick Warren’s video on this. He says a remarkable life is one that others notice for it’s being uncommon, extraordinary and outstanding. To live this kind of life, you need to be the four R’s:
• Respectful of others. This also means being fair and just.
• Reliable – Keep your word and be ethical. Be honest and trustworthy. Honor all your commitments.
• Resourceful – Use what you have and solve problems creatively.
• Resilient – Stay strong through life’s ups and downs. You’ll meet disappointment and even failure, but “failure is not final nor is it fatal”. As John Maxwell said, “fail forward”, failing is a learning experience.
Problems will be encountered in life. But there is NO Problem bigger than God.
3. Practice Gratitude
Always be grateful. the Bible says, “in everything give thanks”. Even when things go wrong, trust that there’s a hidden blessing or lesson in it.
Don’t compare yourself to others or feel envy. Focus on what God has given you—your gifts, strengths— use them well.
Waking up, with food to eat, peace of mind and good relationships —are priceless blessings. To see, hear, smell, talk, walk, eat, don’t take for granted. Count blessings daily.
4. Health is Wealth
Take care of your body and mind. Don’t put harmful things into them—just like you wouldn’t put water or sand in a watch.
Eat well, move your body, exercise, and sleep enough. Please limit your sugar, processed and junk food. Think positive. Stay connected with family and friends, laugh often. Avoid stress.
Remember Dr. Jimmy’s SELF formula: Sleep, Exercise, Love, Forgive.
5. On Money and Finance
We are only stewards and God is the source of everything — all wealth and ideas. To be financially independent, here are some tips:
• Know your God given gifts and use your talents well – Pagyamanin mo.
• Live within your means.
• Spend wisely, not impulsively. Avoid unnecessary expenses. Distinguish between needs and wants.
• Save regularly.
• Invest carefully – do not put all in one place or in things you don’t understand.
• Give and tithe. You can never out give God.
6. On Career and Business
For those still studying, focus on your education. Education is important as it is something that can’t be taken away from you. Ask questions if you don’t understand the lesson, do the best in anything you do, join extracurricular activities (sports, music, crafts) to have a well-rounded personality and keep on learning.
As you grow:
• Do what you love. and find your purpose.
• Work hard and smart
• Find a good mentor.
• Build a network of good people.
• Keep learning and improving.
Do the right thing right all the time even when no one is looking.
Dream Big, it is free but have a target date with action plans, so it becomes a reality.
My Nanay, Arling Gozon started a coffee nursery in her 90s. It’s never too late to learn or try something new.
Remember the four P’s: value your People, be efficient and improve Processes (AI /digitalization), take care of the Planet and Profits will follow.
7. Faith in Jesus Christ
Nanay Arling said, if I could leave you with only ONE thing, it is this:
“To know Jesus Christ and accept Him as your personal Savior.” He said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
Pray all the time, in doubt, happy or sad. Jesus, a prayer away is ALL we need.
As we reflect on Holy Week, Jesus died to give us the gift of eternal life – our greatest blessing!
May you find your purpose in life and live a remarkable life of significance.
With all my love,
Mom/Lola
***The views expressed herein are her own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of her office as well as FINEX. For comments, email tarrielafg@pnb.com.ph. Photo is from Pinterest.