Today, I celebrate my 47^th birthday … am I halfway through my marathon? I’ve always loved how my birthday falls on December as year winds down. It feels like the perfect time to pause, reflect on what’s passed, and dream about what’s ahead.

Recently, I chanced upon a book at Kinokuniya that made me stop and think: time is just -passing me by. Life is short. 2024 — GONE! just like that. Have you ever felt that way, like there’s so much you still want to do, yet so little time to do it?

Life may feel fleeting, but as I sit here, penning down some thoughts on another birthday, I’m reminded that it’s not just about the time that has passed, but about the time we still have ahead.  At 47, I feel like I’m halfway through life’s race. And while there’s a natural sense of urgency as time ticks on, I choose gratitude. Yes, another day may have passed, but another day is about to begin.

Turning 47 feels like a milestone, not because of the number itself, but because it marks a point in my life where I’ve started to shift my perspective. Instead of counting the years that have slipped through my fingers, I want to focus on the moments that lie before me—the dreams still waiting to be pursued, the impact I can still make, and the people I can still inspire.

Yes, life is short, but it’s also abundant with possibility. And the best part? Every new day brings a fresh chance to live it fully.

I’ve come to realize that chasing success for its own sake doesn’t carry the same weight it once did. What matters more to me now is creating something lasting—not just in terms of achievements, but in the lives of others. What lives on long after we’re gone, after all, is the true measure of a life well-lived.

Two weeks ago, me together with a group of friends reflected on what our “headline” for 2025 would be, what we want to manifest and make happen in our lives. For me, the headline is clear: “From Holding Back to Marching On”.

Year after year, I’ve felt the pull to pursue something beyond my work in IT. While I deeply value the technical aspects of my career, what I love most is the opportunity it gives me to mentor, to build up, and to empower others. It’s a passion that ignites something in me every time I see someone grow and succeed because of the support I’ve been able to provide.

This year, I want to embrace that calling more fully. In whatever way I can, I want to be a channel of inspiration – a bow that launches arrows, a force that propels others to fly higher than they imagined. It’s time to stop holding back and start marching boldly toward the impact I know I’m meant to make.

As I welcome another year of my life and a new year for all, let us remember that Life is Short but It’s NOT OVER. Let’s live LIFE as we should .,,

L – Live Intentionally:  Life is short as I repeatedly ponder. Don’t just exist; choose how you want to spend your time and energy. What truly matters to you? What legacy do you want to leave?

I – Ignite Your Passion & Inspire Others: What sets your soul on fire? What makes you come alive? Pursue those passions with unwavering dedication. Inspire others by sharing your passion and encouraging their own pursuits.

F – Focus on the Present: Make the most of every moment by being fully present. Avoid dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Embrace the now and make each second count.

E – Embrace the Journey: Life is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the victories, learn from the inevitable setbacks, and savor every moment along the way.

What’s your “headline” for 2025? What powerful story will you write in 2025? What courageous step will you take today to bring that headline to life?