Growing Up Story



It feels like yesterday I was in summer school, waiting to finally join regular classes. I was behind other kids, but I was lucky enough to skip straight to kindergarten. I still remember the excitement of stepping into school for the very first time. 

After classes, I always looked forward to playing with my cousin and my tita because my parents had to run some errands. We spent countless days playing Shopkins, loom bands, taya-tayaan, and tumbang preso. Back then, I couldn’t wait to grow up. Little did I know, I would one day miss being a carefree child, someone with no worries, just enjoying the freedom. 

I remember being picked up by my father from school back in kindergarten in a sidecar full of bananas. I would ride with him while he sold bananas. It was fun, it made me feel like ako ang prinsesa sa sagingan. I grew up pampered by my parents. Imagine? At such a young age, and even up until now, my dad would comb my hair, hihimayan ako ng fish, crabs, tahong, talaba, and shrimps. I never had to worry about chores; all I had to do was study and study. Yet I still wonder about the magic behind waking up in bed after falling asleep on the couch. 

My mom is truly my best friend. I’m so thankful for her, and at the same time, I feel sorry because she had to sacrifice so much for us. She worked tirelessly to provide food and money for our daily needs. Without her hard work, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

Yet, despite being so busy, she always found time to connect with us and care for us. She gave me everything I ever wanted, from childhood until now. She taught me so much and loved us deeply.

May sakit ako? Bakit hindi ko naman masyadong naramdaman? It’s because Mama was always there to take the pain away. She would stay up late just to make sure I was okay. May gusto ako pero kapos sa budget? Mama would always find a way. 

And I am thankful for my second best friend, my baby sister. She is there for me when I’m down and need someone to talk to. How I wish she could grow up slower, so I can treasure more of our moments together.

As I grew older, life wasn’t always easy, but my parents took care of everything I needed. With their guidance, I learned to dream big and strive to excel, even though things don’t always go as planned. 

High school brought new challenges. The pandemic arrived, changing everything. I missed my old classmates, our kwentuhan, landline calls, Messenger video chats, and of course, our games together. When the pandemic ended, we moved to Bulacan. At first, I was sad because I disliked making new friends, but I’m truly grateful I was able to find wonderful friends so quickly. 

Growing up, I wasn’t allowed to gala much, but by Grade 10, I finally could, and even if most of our hangouts were just at home, it was more than enough. Comfortable, fun, and full of laughter. 

Still, I often felt uncertain. I didn’t have a clear plan for my future. I wondered if I would remain shy or grow into a confident, outgoing person. I wondered if I would stay close to my friends. But one thing was certain: I wished to grow into a successful woman, able to give back to my parents. I want to bring them to different places and countries, and provide everything they need with just a snap of my fingers. 

Now, as I step into college, full of doubts and uncertainties, I promise to give my best with all my heart, because I am surrounded by people who truly care for me. I hope to continue creating memories with my friends and family. 

It is such a privilege to be born into this family, to be together through thick and thin. I am deeply thankful to everyone who has been part of my journey. Thank you for being part of my life. 

I love you all so, so, so much!