VALUABLE TIME FOR THE RIPE IN AGE

(A dynamic-equivalence enhancement of a translation of Mario de Andrade’s “El Valioso Tiempo de los Maduros”)

I reckoned my age and discovered that I have fewer years to live henceforth . . . .

I seem like a man who was given a package of goodies and after eating some of them first, later fell into a deep reflection upon realizing that he didn’t have much left anymore.

I no longer have time to spend for endless meetings that achieve nothing as statutes, rules, procedures and regulations are discussed.
Neither do I have time to give my encouragement to senseless people who have not grown up despite their ages.

I cannot spare a moment with mediocrity in engagements where egos march in parade. I cannot stand the presence of manipulators and opportunists. I am upset by the presence of the envious whose objective is to degrade the competent and usurp their positions, talents and achievements. I detest, as I witness, situations where characters are assassinated in the name of securing a lucrative position. People are not mindful of substance; what matters are titles. I have limited time to talk about titles; I desire essence for my soul is in haste. . . .

Not much goodies left in the package anymore. . . .

I wish I could be with genuine human beings, real ones.

I wish I could laugh with them in their mistakes and be less arrogant like them in their triumphs . . . They who do not think they are special . . . They who do not abandon their responsibilities but uphold the value of human dignity.
And as I walk alone, I desire to be on the side of truth and honesty—the essential virtues that make life worth living.

I associate with people who are able to feel the hearts of others. . . .
People whose wisdom has been acquired through the tough lessons of life bestowing them with an ability to give a tender touch on others’ souls.

Yes, move fast and live with the passion achievable only in the prime of life. Far from my intent is to aimlessly squander the few goodies left. I’m certain what remains are more precious than those I’ve consumed so far.

I aspire to get to my goal fulfilled and in tranquility with my loved ones and with myself.

Let your wish be the same for any which way you go, you will surely get there.

English translation enhanced by:
Ruel F. Pepa