“I’ve Got Everything I Need Right Here”

by Raymund Tamayo

Writer's Note: This is something I wrote almost five years ago when my son, Rafa, was still not born. It was published in my old blog and I'm happy to re-share it here.

I just watched the 2010 movie “Clash of the Titans” last night, and there was one line by the film’s main protagonist, Perseus, that resonated in my mind.

“I’ve got everything I need right here.”

His father, Zeus, the leader of the Olympian gods, was asking if he’ll reconsider his offer to take his place as one of them – as a god – in Olympus. But Perseus’ surprisingly meek and pleasant reply was, “I’ve got everything I need right here.”

I put myself in Perseus’ shoes for a moment and wondered what would make me happy and content right here and right now. That moment when I can say “I’ve got everything I need right here.”

This is what I came up with:

1. Jeans – nice and comfortable. I don’t need to be stiff and cold while wearing them.

2. T-Shirt – just plain white, black, or grey. Without prints or brands. My favorite are v-necks. I can comfortably be myself when I’m wearing them.

3. Water – my favorite beverage. I also drink coffee, tea, or fruit juices, but nothing compares with plain water. Delicious.

4. Banana – or any fruit for that matter. But my favorite is banana.

5. Books – the best thing that entertains me. I usually have one or a couple in hand. I forget about time when I’m reading.

6. Pen and a small Notebook – for spontaneous writings of my thoughts, insights, and ideas about what I read and about a lot of things.

7. Walking – next to reading, the best thing that entertains me is walking. Especially with my wife. We talk about everything, and we savor the immense beauty of nature. Now, that’s living!

8. My wife, Denielle – she’s my confidence, my partner, my sister, and my friend. She’s the wind beneath my wings; the gust behind my sails. I love her forever.

9. My daughter, Ryah – being with her has always given meaning to my life that I had no right to expect. That no one can ever take from me. I love her so much, more than anything in this world.

These are all I need: jeans & t-shirt, water & banana, a book and a notebook, a walk with my wife and daughter in nature. I don’t want to have everything, because I’ve got everything I need… right here.