by Gladys Fe Montebon | @gladys_TRL and Mary Rose Sarmiento | @maryrose_TRL
Mandy Hale once said, “Single is no longer a lack of options – but a choice. A choice to refuse to let your life be defined by your relationship but to live every day happily and let ever after work itself out.”
There is so much value in being single. Having all the time for yourself, enjoying things whenever and wherever you want, appreciating more the love from your friends and family, and lastly, you have your peace of mind. Indeed, what a great perks of being single.
“I have never been into a relationship…”, these are the words of a 21-year old journalism student from Bulacan State University, who wants to go by the name Taguro. “...but still, I am happy even if I'm single.”
Taguro has never been in a real relationship but he had experience courting someone he thought could stay forever. Since then, he stopped searching for someone and that is the reason why he is single right now.
"Napapagod na rin akong mag-isip. Napapagod na rin akong maghanap. Kaya ayon, hinayaan ko na." He said.
Clearly, some people are single because they choose to be. At this point in their lives, they are either simply not interested in being in a committed relationship or there may be more significant factors at play such as pain from previous relationships or a fear of being wounded by love.
"Kung may darating man, e ‘di maganda, welcome. Kung wala, mananahimik na lang ako sa isang tabi na masaya para sa sarili ko", Taguro added.
In an effort to find happiness, people pursue the ideal relationship and social acceptance. It might be simple to focus on what you believe will make you happy rather than what actually brings you joy at times.
"...minsan hinahanap ko pa rin yung bagay na mayroon sa mag-jowa. Syempre, tao lang naman ako na may pangkaraniwang gusto o hangad sa buhay." Loneliness is enormous, and it's likely what prevents many people from feeling fulfilled in their single status. Despite how miserable it is to be alone, Taguro uses the opportunity to become closer to himself and pursue his desires.
"...magpuyat. Kumain ng wan-to-sawa, mag-Netflix magisa at maglaro ng video games. Matulog at managinip mag-isa. Oo, boring pero saktuhan lang naman", he said while laughing.
Taguro is not discouraged by the potential stigmatization, judgment, and unjustified sympathy of others. So instead of looking for someone and starting a family, Taguro is now consciously choosing to live a different life, concentrate on his school, and pursue his dreams.
In an article by Filane Mikee Cervantes published last August, stated there are more benefits and privileges for single persons sought in the Philippines. A proposed law in the House of Representatives would offer single people extra advantages and benefits, including flexible working hours, monthly financial aid, and scholarships.
House Bill 1364, also known as the proposed Single Persons' Welfare Act, was introduced by Margarita Nograles of the PBA party list. It calls for the creation of a comprehensive program of services for single people and their dependents, to be carried out by relevant governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Any person who is not legally married, or who was married before but whose marriage was later annulled or legally separated, and who has custody of or provides financial support for someone who is not his or her kid, is referred to in the bill as a single person.
A monthly financial subsidy of PHP1,500 for individuals making minimum wage, a flexible work schedule, and at least one work from home day each week are just a few of the benefits and privileges available to single people.
MORE ABOUT SINGLE'S DAY
If February 14 is the most anticipated day for every couple, should singles have their own too? And guess what, way back in the 1990s in China, four university students came up with the idea of celebrating singlehood every November 11. This is because 11/11 appears like four singles standing together.
Right now, Single’s day is slowly becoming a global phenomenon especially in Southeast Asia where online shopping sites like Lazada and Shoppee swept the region with 11.11 being a day of huge sale and deals, thus giving the date more significance. If there's a way of showing the idea of self-love, people would probably show it through shopping. That's why this day is more often known as a shopping festival.
The celebration extended its reach from countries other than China through e-commerce platforms. In addition, unlike shopping holidays such as America's Black Friday, Singles Day is no longer celebrated as a one-day event, with shopping festivals now often beginning weeks before.
Want more stories at link? Check this out: When the Ink Runs Out
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