March Forth and Do Something

Today, we are celebrating the power of actions — of doing something instead of just planning and of exerting effort instead of making excuses.

We are now on the third month of the year. Another month has come to an end, and a new one is unfolding before our eyes.

But what have we accomplished so far? Where are we on our New Year’s resolutions?

As we celebrate this day, let’s take a moment to pause, breathe, and remember.

Remember that there is more to life than being slaves to our daily routines, responsibilities, and circumstances. Today, let us be reminded of the power of actions.

What plans have you been putting on hold so far? Are you stressed and in dire need of respite? Are you happy, or are you just waiting for happiness? Whoever you are and in whatever phase you are in, don’t put your plans on hold and settle down in life.  

Be bold. Make havoc. Act now.

Don’t just survive, live. Don’t get dragged, move. Own your life instead of letting life own you.

March forth and love

Whatever you are doing and in whichever stage you are in, love life.

Love your work. Love your achievements. Love the challenges that make you stronger.

Love yourself—flaws and all. Stop looking at the mirror and body-shaming yourself. Don’t beat yourself up over your shortcomings because no one is perfect. Today, smile and remind yourself that you are beautiful just as you are.

Express your love. Don’t wait for special occasions to show kindness to your family and friends. Instead, always be grateful for their unwavering support. Today, take a moment to do something nice for your loved ones.  

In everything you do, remember love. Don’t ever let your struggles dim your love.

March forth and learn

Want to learn a new language? Go ahead and start taking online lessons.

Wish you can cook well? Go ahead and practice.

Want to learn self-defense? Or yoga? Or archery? Go ahead and enroll yourself.

Stop making excuses and putting your plans on hold. Knowledge will not come to you. You have to pursue it.  

March forth and believe

Believe in the power of passion and faith. Know that we are never too old to believe in dreams coming true.

Are you in the course or job you love? Have you achieved your childhood dream? If not, do something about it. Don’t let your passion be eroded by practicality. It’s okay to be realistic, but do so with the intent of being happy.

Today, don’t just toil and waste away. Take the first step in chasing after your passion, and then have faith that success always comes to those who work for it.

March forth and travel

Go where your feet are taking you, and let your curiosity guide your way.

It doesn’t have to be an expensive vacation abroad or a jam-packed itinerary with your entire family or all your friends. It can be as simple as eating at that new restaurant you’ve always wanted to try but never did because you’ve been too busy.

You can go visit new museums or art galleries, celebrate mass at a different church, or go food-tripping from one food park to another.

Wherever it is you want to go, just go.

March forth and volunteer

In your quest for a meaningful life, aim also to enrich other people’s lives.

Get to know the people living in cemeteries, bridges, and dumpsites. Visit these communities, teach the kids, and join feeding programs. Know that the little things you do mean a lot to them.

Whatever your passion is — be it writing, designing, organizing, or storytelling — there’s room for you. Your talents and interests can make a difference so don’t be afraid to come as you are. If you love kids, go ahead and play with them. If you love animals, go ahead and care for shelter animals.   

Volunteering will take you to different places, teach you a lot about the world, show you love, encourage your passion, and restore your faith in humanity. There’s no better way to add meaning to your life than by helping others succeed.  

As we celebrate this day, remind yourself that a truly fulfilling life is one filled with actions rather than just plans. Take control of your life, execute your plans and chase after your goals instead of dragging yourself from day-to-day, wondering when life will become better.   

As the saying goes, you are the master of your fate and the captain of your soul.

With that in mind, march forth and make each day count.

Lorraine Rañoa, iVolunteer Philippines