I came across my old xanga blog (year 2003) that I had already forgotten, and began reading some posts. My style of writing and even the topics I wrote about then were something I can’t say I am proud of. I was using chat words like “idk” (for I don’t know), “lyk” (for like), and other words I now consider below English standards. I am a teacher, some of my students read my posts, and I was supposed to be a role model. Instead, I was the one getting hooked by these language trends. I should be the one changing people for the better.
So the question popped: “Did I improve over the years?”
And then my thoughts drifted to my other characteristics. Am I still ALWAYS late? Do I still spend a lot of time watching TV? Am I a better teacher now? Did I expand what I know about technology?
Am I a better person now?
Truth is I have high respect for people who always work hard to be better: may it be on the personal aspect or professional. They are people who are driven to success and they know how to invest on their future. I should know, because I see them everyday; I work with them; I talk to them; I read about them. These people who strive to be better are always hungry for knowledge and they embrace new challenges.
And they are the people I’m trying to emulate.
Am I a better person now?
I can say I’m a little punctual now, though it still needs improvements. When I notice I get distracted watching re-runs of sitcoms and old movies, I turn off the TV and switch the radio on and continue what I am supposed to do.
I am a better teacher, yes. I continually ask seasoned educators from my school for suggestions and observe how they teach. This year, our school principal made us watch a video of Harry Wong (link is for the book) 
Thanks to the internet, I am able to update my technology skills. And as for this blog, I see to it that I spend ample time to improve its layout and its content.
Improvement should never stop. So if this post has somehow enlightened you and you decide to be better, do something about it and do it now, because learning and improvement do not end as soon as results are gained.
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Came to check out this other planet.
Am I a better person now? I don’t know really. I feel the same as I did at 19 inside, so maybe I am immature, despite the 60 years. I don’t put up with people like I used to, but that is not necessarily bad, there are areas in my life in which I think have improved but there are also areas that have not aged well, like patience for example.
I do try to do my best in whatever endeavour I undertake and because of that I am selective about what I agree to do, I have little trouble saying NO when I don’t want to do something. That has definitely improved over the years.
Good post, Vic! Thanks for sharing!
Pareng Saed, one way or another, our MyPBA family helps me become A Better Person. People like you could influence others to become A Better Person. Keep it up Pare.
Mikey, yup, myPBA is a really different online community. (Too bad the language is mainly in Filipino.. it could have a lot of worldwide audience, otherwise). Even though a basketball forum originally, its unique diverse topics and family-like atmosphere make it stand out from the rest. I learned a lot by reading quality posts and intelligent discussions. Thanks for bringing it up. I’m truly a proud member of myPBA.