On Aging

Photographer and writer Joanne Zapanta-Andrada shares with us a few gems about growing older.


The wonderful thing about getting older is that you discover invaluable truths. Looking back at all that has been achieved, you realize that there is no longer a need to prove anything to yourself—much less others. The fact is, in many respects, you never had to prove anything to anyone. Not then. Not now. Not ever. All of a sudden, other people's opinions about you no longer matter and the only esteem you wish to have is your own. You finally ascertain what you have always suspected- that fame and glamour are just superficial bubbles and that the most essential gifts in life are most often the simplest. You are less afraid of editing the negative elements in your life and are more focused on carrying only what is nurturing and essential. You learn the value of deep friendships and laughter. You leave the impulse to create a facade in favor of searching for your authentic self. In midlife you stop caring about becoming the ideal and start uncovering and embracing who you really are.

It takes years and experience to reach this realization.

I am glad I have and would not trade this wisdom for youth. I'm fine where I am thank you!


Article by Joanne
Art by Shandra
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Joanne Zapanta-Andrada is a photographer and writer, as well as a Governor for The Philippine Red Cross. Her column, Uptown Downtown, runs weekly in The Philippine Star's YStyle Section.

Shandra is currently a Communication Arts student. She is interested in multiple art forms such as theater, film and photography.  After college, she plans to enter the world of film and entertainment.