SECRETS TO ETERNAL YOUTH? NOT REALLY

Many people ask how I manage to stay the way I am (not to mention my other half are surrounded demanding to know her "secret of youth), still with dark hair growing (not entirely black, there are a few whites people rarely notice - just look at my beard, you'll know), looking almost the same as I did in my 20s and 30s, and still able to roller-skate (unfortunately, no more stunts like I did when I was younger), with strong legs to match.

I’m just happy that my grandsons can see their cool grandpa roller-skating and that it even inspires the eldest to learn a few moves from me.

Some even want to come and learn from me, as if I were some kind of guru. Truth is, there’s no magic or miracle behind it. It comes down to how you were raised, and how you research on things, maintain discipline in your daily routine. And yes, I admit, being a construction guy, I do smoke but nothing hyper.

First, I face problems without panic. Challenges are simply part of life.

Second, I do take some traditional remedies certain herbs and preparations that are difficult to make because the ingredients and proportions must be just right. Finding them isn’t easy; it once required going deep into the jungle to source what was needed. That said, I still believe in and rely on modern medicine as well.

Third, the power of prayer plays a role. One thing I never do is pray in a state of panic; I calm myself first, because I know Who I am standing before. As a result, I also rarely envy those who are better off than me on the contrary, they inspire me, and I often learn a great deal from them.

Fourth, martial arts practice when done for health and discipline is a fascinating and effective form of exercise.

Fifth, family, relatives, friends, and colleagues matter deeply to me. I make a conscious effort to stay connected and communicate with them in whatever way I can.

Last but not least, genetics and DNA matter. Some of my ancestors lived beyond 100 years, though not all were so fortunate, some passed very young, some passed at 40, some at 63. Anything beyond that, we consider a bonus in life.