I feel that one of the saddening moments of life is when a person suddenly loses interest and enthusiasm in things that previously made one happy or fulfilled. Like Veronika in Paulo Coelho’s literary world or in a lesser extent, John in “Brave New World” by Alduous Huxley, or Equality 7-2521 in “Anthem” (I like the third/last because it ended in a hopeful note about mankind). But this feeling doesn’t have to be as intense as the ones in the book. It can simply be that feeling of suddenly, there’s nothing’s new, nothing’s worthwhile. I’m not even talking about being depressed or questioning the meaning of life.

Where am I going with this one? I suddenly recall my aunt telling me that at one point, her work was putting the caps on the bottles of rubbing alcohol and facial cleansers at a factory in Manila. She was okay with the work for year or so, since it paid the bills. Eventually, she had to stop because the chemicals in the workplace affected her health. She developed a respiratory problem despite wearing a mask.

I imagine having to work day by day, doing something routinary, like putting caps on bottles as they pass through a conveyor belt. I wonder how it is, how it must feel. This is not to say that I belittle the work. It is a noble work (as contrasted from the work of those who got opulent through corruption or illegal practices).

This brings me to several years back, when we were still staying in a rented house in Novaliches. There was this seemingly small house with a low ceiling at the corner street leading towards the exit street of the subdivision, which had a small door, two (2) really small windows, which, even if you try to glance as you walk (because the wall of the house is the edge of the street), you wouldn’t see a thing. Then one day, a strange smell started emanating from inside, like burnt leather or something like that. Word got around that the house was rented by a belt manufacturer (so it must be spacious inside?). Sometimes, I would see some workers loitering outside, lanky, cigarette-puffing, young but shrivelled-looking men. I wonder how’s the work situation inside.

How is it staying in a cramped work/sleep place while inhaling those nasty vapors?

Now, I am not sure whether to talk more about those work conditions that I mentioned, and how I wanted to have a look for myself so I could suggest improvements in the conditions (you may watch the movie Nocebo for an idea of one such workplace), but that would be something that I do not have the authority to do.

But I am led to another train of thought. How do we really maintain that high level of zest?

I once joined an online book club. I was on fire at first; then it became boring. Not the reading aspect but being a member of the club itself. In my college days, I joined several organizations, not because I was “bulakbol” or because I hated studying but because I did not want a mundane and routinary college life. When I was doing my MA thesis, I almost went beyond the allowable years in the university because I eventually lost interest in my first and second theses topics, eventually sticking with my third and graduating finally.

This is not to say that being like this is something to be proud of. But it is to be aware and counter it by staying focused. It will also help to remember one of Dr. Stephen R. Covey’s recommended habit to “begin with the end in mind.”

Gosh! I suddenly miss someone with whom I used to have philosophical discussions or just some trivial sharings of anything that transpired.

Anyway, I gotta wrap this quasi-philosophical and quasi-inspirational piece up because the night is progressing. I’ll end with some uplifting thoughts:

• Have something to look forward to week by week, no matter how simple it is.
• Find “pockets” of time to do your hobbies.
• Whet your curiosity. Read, travel, meet people.
• Have a personal project and reward yourself when you achieve your milestones.
• Be kind to yourself when you experience your “down phases.” But strive to get up when you already can.
• Be with people who make you feel light and bright.
• Pray. Be thankful.

Thank you for reading. I hope you find your joy.

P.S. The featured photo is Daraitan River in Tanay, Rizal. It’s serene place, perfect for a family or barkada get-away. I went there in 2022 at a time when I needed to rejuvenate myself and my emotions.