of working and learning from older people
I started working in this agency when I was 22. It was my first job fresh out of college. And it wasn't what I was expecting when I thought what it would be like working in the government. I thought this was worse—way worse.
In the Philippines, we have this preconceived notion that civil servants are cruel, corrupt, lazy, and incompetent most of the time. (But there I was, huh?) And during my first day, I just about ticked all of the above. They were indifferent to me! Most of them were old people who half of the time aren't really working! I thought, I couldn't last in here!
But four years later, I am still here. Working with the same old people who I thought of negatively. One by one they are retiring, and little by little my heart is breaking. Because I was proven wrong. Way, way wrong.
I grew maturely and immaturely because of them. They taught me about life, the know-how and shortcuts in the office, how to treat my parents better, and even about sex! My mind and mouth got dirtier overtime. They taught me how to save up and live a little but not comprise my self-respect. They taught me a lot of things and made me cherish every moment I have with them.
Today, I am reminded that they are growing older. And in a year or two, more of them will be retiring and I would be seeing them less or even for the last time. It is so sad just thinking about it. But also, it makes me happy knowing that they could enjoy life more and spend time with their family. I just hope I had more time with them...
