Just like many of you, I also have childhood friends who hold a special place in my heart. For me, nothing beats the bond you had with friends you've grown up with. Don't get me wrong, I love all my friends—my classmates, but childhood friends are on a whole different level. Because they are the ones who were with you since childhood and you've created many memories. You grew up together, made fun experiences together, and even though life keeps you busy, the connection you had with them remains the same.
Honestly, I've been missing my childhood friends a lot lately. We rarely see each other even though we live in the same city because of how busy we are. One of my childhood friends is of course, my twin sister, who's also a graduating student like me. The other one is now a licensed professional teacher. And the youngest in our group is studying in another city. The last time the four of us were together was three years ago! So, I couldn't help but miss them and wish to be with them again, to talk about life, and recall the happy memories we had when we were young.
Unexpectedly, this December, from the 16th to the 24th, we had the chance to reunite. It all started with a message in our group chat, plans were made, and then, the four of us decided to complete the traditional Simbang Gabi together.
For those who don't know, Simbang Gabi or also known as the nine dawn masses leading up to the Christmas is a Filipino Christmas tradition. Every dawn for nine days, the four of us met at church, attended the mass, and then had breakfast together at a convenience store or fast food chains. We shared stories about our lives and recall about our childhood experiences. The simple breakfast felt great because we were together.
On the final day, December 24, after the mass, only three of us remained and go to 7-Eleven to buy food because the other one had to leave early because her mother called her.
After we bought food, we headed to Sands Gateway Mall Danao, specifically to the portside at the back. The area is beautiful, with replicas of famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower , and more. There we ate, laughed, and savored every moment.
While eating, I noticed a family in front. They looked so happy while eating, even though it is obvious that they only brought their food from home. It wasn't from a restaurant, but you can feel that they're genuinely happy by just seeing their smiles. I realized that being happy isn't merely about expensive things, it's about being with the people close to your heart. Seeing them reminds me of myself when I was a kid especially having picnics with my family and that during picnics my heart were always filled with immense joy.
After we ate, we took pictures inside the mall. I am delighted by just seeing the decorations inside the mall, indeed Christmas is in the air because of the Christmas vibes inside the mall.
When we got home, I couldn't help but feel both joy and a little sad. I'm sad because I don't know when we'll be together again, but I'm happy as well because even though we rarely see each other, our bond doesn't change. It seems like the last time we were together was only yesterday when in fact, it's been years since the four of us last hangout together.
So for those of you reading this, I just want to say value your friends. Time will come that you will be busy as you have different paths to follow, but always remember that true friends will always be there for you even if you haven't seen each other for a long time. Their love and care for you never fades and they hugely cherish your bond.
That's all for today's blog, everyone! I'd really appreciate it if you could upvote, comment, and share my blog. Thank you so much, Hivers and have a fabulous day ahead!