again, and
today, I have another story to share with you, a story that reminded me of life's little blessings. For today's blog, let me take you back to my 20th birthday celebration with my twin sister. The day that taught me to look beyond my struggles and find joy in simple things.
Life, as we know it, is never without challenges. We all face difficulties, maybe with ourselves, families, friends, or even a lover. I'm not underestimating the weight of what you're going through (because I've experienced it myself), but I've noticed that whenever we go through a problem, it feels like it's the end of the world. We lose sight of the other blessings we have received. We forget that problems are just temporary, this too shall pass and there are many more reasons to smile. Right now, the situation may be overwhelming, but when you overcome it, it will be a lesson that will strengthen you.
Life is full of challenges, but know that better days are coming. So let's not let the problem swallow us up. Instead, be grateful for the little things, smile, and remember that there are many more reasons to be happy.
Honestly, I can say that the year 2023 wasn't an easy year for me. For the past year, I felt like I was always in “survival mode.” I had a hard time dealing with academic challenges, family problems, financial problems, and personal insecurities. I doubted my worth and cried myself to sleep many nights. I always ask myself if I can make it, if I can get through all this. I feel like I'm carrying a very heavy thing in my heart and I can't seem to carry it anymore. My world seemed to have stopped then— I felt like I was in the dark that seemed like no light would come . But through it all, my twin sister remained by my side. Since childhood, we have been very close to each other, we are inseparable, and now that we are classmates, we often talk about many things.
Until our 20th birthday came, I wasn't really looking forward to it. I expect that it would just be another ordinary day. I didn't expect any greeting or celebration because of our family's financial struggles.
But to my surprise when my sister and I stepped out of our room that morning, our parents and siblings appeared in the living room. We were greeted with smiles and a "Happy Birthday!" That simple greeting meant everything to me, it seems like all the problems I was carrying gradually eased. They still remember our birthday even though everyone in the house is busy at work and school. We had a simple breakfast—no fancy preparations, but we were complete. While eating and talking for a while, I realized that moments like this are more important than any celebration.
I don't need a lot of food on the table. Seeing my family eating together and talking is enough to make my heart happy. I noticed that we rarely do this anymore because we are so busy with our own lives.
While having breakfast, I realized that despite all the challenges in life, there are still reasons to smile. Life does not end when we have problems. I realized that I shouldn't let myself get hurt everyday and cry everyday everyday. I need to help myself get up and be more optimistic
After a few hours, our Kuya arrived – our neighbor who we have considered as an older brother because our family is very close to each other. He wished us "Happy Birthday" and to make our 20th birthday special, he offered that we should do a birthday photoshoot. He said it was free and it was his birthday gift for us since he is passionate about photography. He's often hired for debuts and other occasions, so it's great to think he's willing to do this for us for free.
For me, the idea of a birthday photoshoot is a big deal. It was a childhood dream of mine – to have a birthday photoshoot for my debut. But due to some problems, I didn't get to celebrate my 18th birthday the way I imagined. So when Kuya suggested the photoshoot, that dream of mine came back to life and I was even more happy.
We then discussed the location for the photoshoot and we decided to do it at the Lantaw Golf Course in Looc, Danao City, Cebu . It's a perfect spot with its serene mountain and sea views, it felt like a breath of fresh air away from the city's noise. It is also ideal because it is close to the city. To make it even more special, we bought balloons that shaped like the numbers “2” and “0” to symbolize our 20th birthday.
Then we went to the location, my sister and I dressed up in a simple yet elegant outfits. Our parents also came along to give support and help with the preparations. Kuya then took the photos and my sister and I posed happily, enjoying every moment of the shoot.
One of my favorite photos is the one showing my mom helping me fix my dress before the photoshoot, proof of her unwavering support.
In addition, we have pictures of my sister holding the balloons, and we also have solo shots.
At that time, my heart is filled with immense joy even with the simple things that I had in life. While I was busy crying over the negative things that happened, I forgot that I still have my family—my family who supports me, cares for me, and is always there for me. My mind was so focused on the negative things, I failed to notice the little joys around me.
We ended the day with a simple family dinner and luckily, a relative of us gave a small cake for our birthday. At that moment, something touched my heart—our family gathering, just happy and united. That's when I realized that I shouldn't immerse myself in negative thinking, because despite everything, I still receive so many blessings.
I realized that I shouldn't have waited for the light when I was in the dark because it had been there for a long time—and that light was my family . They continue to support me, love me, and believe in my capabilities. It's true, some people come and go in our lives, but family stays.
So don't forget to value time with family. Cherish every moment, because not everyone is given this opportunity. Moreover, don't let the darkness dim your light. Continue to shine, be optimistic, and always find reasons to smile.
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!