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“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
I had the pleasure of interviewing our beloved Cecilia Nicdao, who has worked here in Human Resources for 15 years.
To honor her time here, we felt that a proper send-off with a cute little tribute was definitely the way to go. Our sit-down was filled with LOL’s, a few tears, fond memories, and sincere words of wisdom. It was a sweet, tender moment.
How do you feel about retiring?
Excited but I’ve been looking forward to this for so long. I look forward to taking care of my grandkids and spending quality time with my husband because he’s now retired too. I’ve been working for 50 years now, so it’s time. It’s time to enjoy life because life is short.
What’s the first thing you’re going to do on your first day as a free woman?
I’m officially off duty! So, I will sleep late until 9 am. My first day off will be a lazy day. And then I’ll do spring cleaning and get rid of shoes, bags, and other things I don’t need anymore.
What are some things you had to do to prepare yourself for this new chapter?
I focused on making myself healthy. I have to keep doing my morning and afternoon walks so that I’m physically ready for when my husband and I start traveling.
What plans do you have for retirement? Any new activities you’re going to try?
I plan on dedicating more time and being more active in our church ministry with my husband. And if God permits, I would like to be a missionary in the Philippines. I would love to start a new BLESS school with Vision HimPossible in our province. I know God is telling me to do this and I have always loved working with kids. My dream was always to be a teacher until all the teachers in my family told me to be a secretary instead.
What do you feel you’re leaving behind at TRI?
The people. I remember back in 2013, I had an opportunity to leave for another job, but a former employee asked everyone to sign a petition for me not to, so I wanted to stay. The people stopped me from leaving and I’m glad I stayed.
What are you looking forward to the most?
I want to see my children be successful and would like to see them serving the Lord more. They’re already active in the ministry, but my husband and I would like to see them continue serving and growing in the Lord.
Who or what will you miss the most about TRI and why?
The people. The spiritual connections. The spiritual development I’ve had since I’ve been at this company. I know the Lord more and more and my spiritual growth has enhanced so much under George’s leadership and through our women’s bible study.
What is your favorite memory here at TRI?
When I was first hired, I didn’t have a desk and no work station. I had to share a space with the IT guy named Homer for 2 weeks. I even had to ask myself “Did I make the right decision to work here?” LOL.
Did you ever use an untrue excuse on a day you were late?
Oh yes! I have to be honest now. Sometimes you feel lazy and need to sleep more.
Any advice or words of wisdom for current employees?
Love your work, be honest with your work, and care about what you do. In the end, you will benefit and you will reap the good harvest. Also, your attitude. Skills can be developed, but your attitude is the most important thing. If you have a good attitude, the skills can follow.
Do you think your replacement would be as cool as you are?
Oh my gosh of course! She will be better than me. Working with Jessica and training her to be my replacement is my greatest achievement – the legacy I leave behind. She’s one of the best things that’s happened to me.
Do you promise to come back and visit us, or should we just come visit you?
Oh yes! Of course!
Can we still call you for HR related questions after you leave?
You are more than welcome to. You can call me anytime, I’m always open.
Can we finally have that party in your office now that you’re leaving?
My women’s bible study group would love to still have their weekly parties – or meetings – here in my office if Jessica says okay.
Describe your journey here at TRI in ONE WORD.
CHALLENGING. Everyone here and every day is different. Managing all of that with my workload and schedule was challenging. But trusting in God to guide me every day has made me better, stronger, and more confident.
Ces, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for pouring your heart and dedication into our workplace ministry for the last 15 years. We will miss you dearly and we’re excited for you and your new chapter!
They say your eyes are the window to your soul. And in the brief 30 minutes I spent with you, I saw the glisten in your eyes when we spoke about your time here and what you’ll miss. I saw the sincerity in your eyes when you talked about your desire to serve the Lord more. And I saw the spark and excitement in your eyes every time you mentioned spending time with your husband, grandkids, and seeing your children more.
May the Lord bless you on this new journey and bring you all the fun, relaxation, and stress-free days that you deserve. YOU DID THAT. YOU GO, GIRL. We love you, byeee!
