Regardless of religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, culture, nationality, age—we all feel (the same) pain. When someone we know is hurting, don’t downplay their pain by telling them that other people are experiencing greater pain. It isn’t right. Comfort them if you must but don’t belittle their feelings.

Spare me your sermons. Why? Coz you don’t know both sides. You only know one side.

You’ve always been insensitive. And would laugh when you know someone is uncomfortable at your “witty” remarks (though my dog is more intelligent than you).

I know coz you’ve done it to me several times. You’ve embarrassed me, hurt me, made me uncomfortable (and you would laugh). But I didn’t do the same to you.

I know I’m maldita. I don’t deny that. But you?!? You are not maldita. Maot ka ug batasan. That simple.

I am writing this while waiting for my mom’s plane to arrive. My plane arrived nearly 3 hours ago. So here I am…

My home is a couple of islands away. Why I had to leave, is why I’m writing this piece.

I am unsure as to where this journey will take me. A lot of the things in front of me are out of my control. I wouldn’t want to control it either. A friend of mine told me to be hopeful but at the same time, be ready for the worst. I am hopeful. Am I ready for the worst? I don’t know. But in a few days, I will find out.

I am about to lose my job. Was it something that I could have prevented? Maybe yes. Maybe no. Am I worried? Not really. I have options. I know this. So why am I in this journey if I have other options that are not so murky? Simple. More than 50 people are also about to lose their job. This trip is for them. If I didn’t take this trip, I will not be able to live with myself. This is why I have no other choice but to be hopeful. I have to be hopeful. I need to be hopeful. I have to be strong. I have to be brave.

There’s a reason for everything. There’s a lesson to be learned in everything. Whatever happens, I am thankful.