Retiree’s Memoir: A Setting to my 2070

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A span of decades passed over, in the year 2070, I decided to leave my career as a
psychologist and psychiatrist. As part of my retirement plan, I go straight to the Social
Security System office to file a pension, supporting my employment throughout my
career history. I also plan to initiate a memorable yet straightforward celebration with
my family and colleagues as we commemorate and treasure the milestones – from
college years to the professional working field. Weeks later, in the middle of summer
June, my 40th annual recurrence and last month of being a researcher began to start. It
took me a while to ponder, realize the things that I see great store by – the unforgettable
atmosphere and aroma of clinic laboratories, giving practical advice to people, and
treating mental illnesses, as well as the societal stigma that lies under the spectrum of
mental health.

Time ticks and drops on the early dinner period. At exactly 5:30 PM, the function hall is
lavished with balloons, decorations, a fine set of tables and cutleries, and entertaining
lights and music. At the same time, guests and invitees bedecked their faces with
dazzling smiles. An hour later, the program limelight my partners in the laboratory –
my dearest colleagues. The first to handle a mic is Kyla one of my closest friends.

“You know, Chris, since my college years, I was astounded by your excellence and determination
in everything that challenged you. When we were taking up preliminary examinations, I asked
you if you were okay, and you replied “yes” even though I felt that you were not okay because
you were sick at that time. Nonetheless, you tried to continue the test and passed. Today, we
celebrate your 40th year in the field, staying committed to your mission, to our mission as
mental health professionals. I wish you and your family along with vigorous life as you traverse
more.”

Meanwhile, the second to express their thoughts is Aliah, the batch’s Summa Cum
Laude.

“Hi, Chris! You are one of my toughest rivals in our batch since you are so competitive (laughs).
Kidding aside, I want to thank you for being the number one supporter of our class, especially
when there is a conflict inside. Thank you also for motivating me when I was in a mental health
crisis; where I could not seek help, you and your initiative, Dinig Kita, gave me a chance to
thrive on my purpose once again. We may be an academic rival, but I will remember you as a
hope spreader and a good friend. God bless to you and your family!”
The last spotlight was given to my research buddy, Carl.

“Hey buddy! It’s nice to see you again after many years we don’t seeing each other. In our
college years, I’ve experienced family problems and financial problems; however, you are there to
make my day through our “gimik night” together with the tropa. I also went through getting a
failing mark. Still, because you provided me with some reviewers and pushed me to study than
do any other nonessential things, I graduated, we graduated successfully. Thanks, buddy, for
everything, for the happy moments we have in the tropa!”

Time flies again. Now, it is the juncture where I would talk about words of wisdom and
gratitude.

“A pleasant evening, my dearest guests, colleagues, and loved ones. Today marks my 480th
month in the service. Meeting great people has been a privilege for me. During my college years,
I have come up against a plethora of failures. But, as I walk through the part of progress, it is
thought that my way is linear, but it is not. I realized that progress is not linear; it may be
curved, sloping, and skewed. Moreover, I also understand my purpose in life, which before
seemed so ambiguous. By understanding my very core, which is helping individuals at their
stake in a mental and emotional health crisis, I also appreciate and value my existence even
more. With the help of my colleagues, we successfully finished college; we fruitfully harvested
the seeds we planted at the beginning of our journey. I may technically leave the field of
psychology, I will still continue to help people and combat stigma through expanding healthy
dialogue so that I would not just only pursue the personal mission but to make people realize
that they are valued, loved, and meaningful.” 

Then, the crowd bounces back a round of applause. The night was over; guests were
going to their respective homes, but this tribute party will paint remarkable history in
my whole life. As I go to bed and rest, I will forever keep those words from my
colleagues, reminding me of what I am and my purpose throughout my journey. 
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Chris Gabriel Valdez Ucol

Grade 12 STEM 1 – St. Margaret of Scotland

“My Meaningful Journey” (Performance Task in Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person) – Page 9 of Grit
Module No. 2 (2nd Quarter)