Senility sets in

In this turbulent life on earth, it is good to have the ability to overcome many difficulties, whether they are financial, physical or psychological. One of the means to overcome all these difficulties is to adhere to one's own philosophy, which in many cases may not only solve the problem but even save one's life.

I still vividly remember when the Pacific War broke out in 1941, that a relative of mine, who was Taiwanese and therefore a Japanese subject, was interned by the Dutch government and consequently all his possessions were confiscated. He was fairly rich from his years of hard work.

He could not bear the material loss, and this disruptive emotional and mental impact made him lose his appetite and he would sit for hours staring into emptiness. He ostracized himself, and, after only six months, he died. If he had been guided by the right philosophy of life, he would not have died in vain.

He should have thought: "I lost all my possessions in this world, but so long as I am healthy, I can recover the loss."

I am 70 years old, and about to be pensioned off by my company, and this gives rise to a lot of wistful thinking. I am still strong and active and have no reason to complain about my health, despite high blood pressure which is kept under control. I was advised to resign, which made me touchy and peevish, as I had to swallow my pride. I became morose day by day. Being used to an active life for 50 years I do not know how to spend my time at home doing nothing, which might easily give rise to senility.

What I want to say, is that if we have to face something unpleasant, we must find ways and means to console ourselves by implementing a philosophy suitable for the occasion.

A. DJUANA

Jakarta