2013: Love Literally Conquered All

Once again, a new year is about to begin. Out with 2013, in with 2014. Each year definitely has its ups and downs but 2013 had some gray areas in between. Some were crystal clear, yet some were just too hazy to define. 

It was a year of both the discovered and the undiscovered. 

I'm grateful for a lot about this year, especially with the new challenges and responsibilities given to me at work, the travels and moments with friends and family, the continuing success in my Masters, the gifts I have given and received, and most importantly, the gift of loving and being loved in return. 

There are some wishes that were not fulfilled this year, but it's come to a point where acceptance is the only key to happiness. To accept is not to feel defeated but to just grow in contentment. And the love I gave and I was given was more than enough to handle and overcome anything. Beyond the failures, disappointments, regrets and sadness, love was there. And it was enough.

There is surely that uncertainty come 2014 - a lot of changes here and there but some constants, too. As always, we can choose to either sulk or have hope that it will be a bright year ahead. In the end, things will be certain and it will be perfectly clear.

Life has its own way of knocking us off our feet. Sometimes, we just tend to focus on the bad instead of seeing it in a positive viewpoint but that's step one to success. Get disappointed, feel bad about it but never forget to get up. Never lose hope because at the end of our days, our lives wouldn't matter if we never even knew how to hope. 

So, the waiting continues. In the meantime, I'll be grateful I have this one person I can count to always be there for me, to love and support pour toujours. Je t'aime beaucoup! <3

Despite the gray areas of 2013, let a new book begin with bright-colored pages, ready to be filled with memories of love and gratitude. 

Have a memorable and fantabulous 2014, everyone! Godspeed! 

[sas-g]

Christmas Throwback

Back then, I used to believe in Santa. Well, literally. It has been a conspiracy between my parents and sister or cousins back when I was a kid where I always received presents at an unexpected area at home or just under the tree, with "Santa's note" on it. Those train sets, chocolates and other goodies, even coins and some money in my stocking - these were only a few of the many gifts I received from "Santa" back then.

But as I grew up and became aware of this little conspiracy, things have changed and I can only hope that illusion could have stayed with me for a little longer.

If only Santa were real. Christmas has never been the same. The anticipation, thrill and excitement of checking my stocking every morning to see if there's something in it, and the waiting. Ah, memories.

Now, I get the point why adults before used to say that Christmas is for kids. The joy in giving presents to the kids is indescribable, especially when you see that big smile and glowing eyes of bliss. At times, I would wish for my childhood to be back, but it is with this maturity that I've treasured having a great childhood, which will definitely be passed on to my future children. :)

As we grow older, Christmas does not dwell on the material side anymore. True, it still brings smiles and warmth inside when we receive gifts from others; but there are even better gifts than those goodies. Time, peace, and joy brought by the presence and conversations with our loved ones, and most of all, spreading love to the people who matter. As the priests always say in their homilies, "It is in giving that we receive much more."

'Tis the season to be selfless, and to remember that the reason for this season is a Child who will be born to be selfless for us all. Santa may not be literally real but his image is a symbol of being selfless, sharing and giving to others. 

May we always have our inner Santa spread the cheer and love not only during the holidays but throughout the year. Happy holidays and Merry Christmas to you and your family! ❤