15/01/2025
Admin kindly post my story.
My name is Captain J.G , and I want to share my story with all of you—my fellow seafarers. I spent nearly 70% of my life working at sea. I started sailing when I was 19, full of dreams and energy, determined to provide a better future for my family. For decades, my life revolved around the ocean, 8 to 10 months onboard, sometimes even 12 months, with only 1 to 2 months of vacation at a time.
My routine was constant: training in Manila, preparing for my next contract, and always thinking about the next step to secure my family’s future. I was proud of my career as a Master Mariner, proud of what I was able to provide. My wife and I built a big house, and we saved enough for the future. My son is now living a successful life in Australia. On the surface, everything looked perfect.
But here I am today, at almost 60 years old. My wife passed away two years ago. My son is thousands of miles away, busy with his own life. I’m retired, living alone, battling diabetes and high blood pressure. I can no longer walk properly or go far from my home. I have money, I have a house, but I don’t have the one thing I can never get back—time.
When I was younger, I thought sacrificing everything was the only way to secure my family’s future. I thought my long months at sea and short vacations were part of the price I had to pay. But looking back now, I realize that I gave away something far more valuable—the moments I could have spent with the people I love.
To all seafarers reading this, listen to me: don’t make the same mistake. Work hard, yes, but don’t forget to live. Balance is everything. While you’re pursuing the dreams of your family, remember to think about yourself too. Why are you here in this world? Life isn’t just about building big houses or saving money. It’s about creating memories, being present for your family, and taking care of your health.
Retire early if you can. Spend time with your loved ones. Invest in your health and your happiness, not just your career. Find hobbies, travel, and enjoy the life you’re working so hard to secure. Don’t wait until you’re too old or too sick to do the things you want to do. Time is short, and it’s the one thing money can never buy back.
As I sit here in my house, I can only wish I had taken more time for myself and my family when I had the chance. Let my story be a reminder: work to live, don’t live to work. Life is too short to spend it all at sea. Enjoy the journey while you can.
Thank you MARINO PH
-Capt J.G
