Antipolo City.
I was supposed to have a lavish birthday bash.
None happened.
Work happened.
I had to stay longer than I anticipated.
No cake.
No candle.
NO happy birthday songs.
Just me and the smells of candle.
And strangers next to me in this church.
Turns out, growth isn’t always pretty—it’s awkward, humbling, and full of “Wait, that was a lesson?” moments. But here I am: older, maybe wiser, definitely more grateful.
Not asking for a perfect life, just a meaningful one-with a bit more sleep, fewer overthinks, the chance to be a selfless blessing to others, and miracles that don’t come with plot twists.
