“The biggest problem is not choosing between left and right, but choosing to make a choice or not.”
— William F. Buckley Jr.
LIFE is an amazing journey shaped by the choices we make. From childhood to old age, every moment gives us a chance to shape our future. Looking back on my 64 years, I see that life is not a set path, but a series of important moments where choices matter most. Each decision, whether sure or unsure, has added to the experience of my life.
When I was young, choices seemed both easy and very important. I remember the first time I chose to be kind instead of ignoring someone, respecting the elders, the time I decided to learn instead of getting distracted, and the times when doing the right thing was more important than taking the easy way out. As I grew up, these choices became harder. Career paths, relationships, personal growth — each decision was important. I chose to learn, not just in school, but in life. I chose to love deeply, take risks, and sometimes leave my comfort zone. Some choices were tough — leaving familiar places, ending relationships that no longer helped me grow, changing careers. But each choice taught me something, and each challenge was a chance to change.
Now in my 60s, I see that living with intention is important. I’ve learned that making choices is not just about deciding, but about understanding the responsibility that comes with those decisions. Choosing to stay healthy, nurture relationships, keep learning, and give back to the community — these are not passive actions but active commitments. Looking back, I realize life is not something that happens to you, but something you shape. Every challenge was a choice to grow, every joy was a choice to embrace, every relationship was a choice to love.
My entire family and I offer our deepest thanks to God for an amazing year that will pass. You have been the unseen guide in every choice, the silent strength behind every decision. Through Your grace, our choices have been blessed, our journey lit up. “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life….” These words from Deuteronomy mean a lot to me. As I stand here today, I extend my profound Thank You as an adopted CNMI son, it’s been 39 years and running. I know that choice is not a destination but a continuous journey. Each day is another chance to choose love, compassion, growth, and purpose. Life is a choice. My life has been my choice — a journey of deliberate steps, guided by faith, shaped by decisions, and blessed beyond measure.
A 64-year-old traveler on life’s amazing journey en route to a new career in medical coding (CPC) and billings.
Wish you all a very successful year 2024 and beyond!
NOEL M. SORIA
A long-time resident of Saipan
