"The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride" - Ecclesiastes 7:8
Remember those highschool days when you have a favorite number? You tag it as your number for your crush or jersey number, you celebrate that day in the month, and claim almost everything you see with it. That's how 24 meant to me. I already forgot how I started liking it but I loved it so much that my friends associate me with it until now. Reaching that age number, I never thought it would mean something also.
In my 24th year, I am at my happiest, bravest and mature-self. It's been a serious struggle going to this year. As my best friend perfectly described: "ginapang ko talaga". It is true that those things you worked hard has the more weight. I have told so many times the dark times I had in the past year, which remains clear to remind me the lessons I learned from it. On that 365-day journey, I have experienced the worst but received the best treasure - a renewed relationship with the Lord. There was a time I thought why did I have to sin so much and stray away before I become a faithful person. Then, I saw clearly His plan for me. I got all the freedom to enjoy my youth and be vulnerable, and so when I'm at my lowest, I seek for the only salvation in Him. The outpouring joy I am feeling is outpouring even if I don't have the "worldly-bests" (specifically, a relationship HAHA), I am at peace with what I already have right now. And in the empty spaces, I learn to be more patient and trusting.
Though I always feel like I look so young (I get that a lot) for my age, I am actually owning this quarter-life phase. I have the liberty to decide for myself. It took me awhile but now I already have a vision for my future - of where or how I want to be. Also, I am at a great shape physically, mentally and emotionally. It may not show, but I have grown maturely to stick with my priorities.
Just to share the wonderful birthday celebration I had. I never expected the tremendous love from my colleagues at Marriott, especially from my Marketing Communications Team. They took an effort to put up a surprise on my work desk before I arrive early for work. They also prepared for my cake, party poppers, gifts and sweet dedication card. To my secret admirer, Tin Lardizabal, for the most beautiful bouquet I have ever received. It was delivered anonymously to the office but I knew it was her from the start. Oh, those things you dreamt a lover would do. HAHA. Shoutout to my sweet friends for their tear-jerker messages, it touched my heart. I completed the celebration with an intimate dinner with my parents and closest friends. It's been awhile since I had my parents with me on my birthday, that's why this day was such a meaningful one. And, to give back in the simplest way was the cherry on top. Again, a huge thank you to everyone who remembered and send their well wishes to me, especially to those who loves me truly. You make my existence purposeful.
I don't know if this will be the best year, because I learned that is not how you should see life. Though, I vow to make the most out of my days. At this age, I am committing to walk straight in the path of Christ. I have always loved life and now I have fallen madly in love with its flaws and assets.
