Welcoming 2022 wasn’t as vibrant as many might expect. I found myself waking up at 11:50 PM on December 31, 2021, with just enough time to cook a bowl of my favorite instant Korean ramen and grab a quick bite. While I had ingredients ready to prepare something more festive, celebrating alone felt out of place. My heart was heavy for my relatives in Bohol, who were still reeling from the devastation caused by Typhoon Odette. Any form of celebration on my part seemed inappropriate, considering the circumstances.
When I peeked outside my window, the atmosphere was starkly different from previous New Year’s Eves. Compared to 2019, the night was eerily quiet, with only a handful of fireworks visible in the distance, likely from Taguig. Even these brief displays lasted no more than five minutes. The usually bustling streets and households around my area were dark and silent—a poignant reminder of how two years of the pandemic had taken a toll on everyone, both emotionally and financially.
Still, as I scrolled through Facebook, I saw glimmers of joy as others shared snippets of their New Year celebrations. It was a comforting sign of resilience and hope, a reminder that no matter how challenging 2021 was, we remain optimistic about what the new year holds. As we move forward, let’s remember to give thanks to those who stood by us during our lowest moments.
Since 2021 is over, GIVE THANKS to the person who was there when you were at your lowest.
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Celebrating Britney Spears’ Birthday with the Britney Army.
Amid the challenges, there was a moment of joy and celebration in December 2021. On December 18, I joined a white-themed party organized by the Philippines’ Britney Army at In the Zone Ramen and Café in Malate, Manila, to honor Britney Spears’ 40th birthday.
This celebration was bittersweet. It occurred just a day after Typhoon Odette (Rai) devastated Bohol, where my relatives were directly affected. At the time, I wasn’t fully aware of the extent of the damage, as communication lines were down, leaving me in the dark about their situation. Despite the uncertainty, I joined the event, surrounded by fellow Britney fans, celebrating the life and freedom of the iconic pop star who inspires us all to persevere.
These moments—both somber and joyful—reflect the complexities of life. As we embrace a new year, may we find strength in each other and hope in the small but meaningful celebrations.
Even so, I still enjoyed the meet-up with my friends - who I haven’t physically met since the COVID19 pandemic started in March 2019. We have only done some virtual chats using Zoom since then. It was refreshing to see them okay. Sharing laughter, same as we shared when we regularly had meetings before pandemic – e.g. Charity Events, Dinner, Visiting Manila Zoo, Stay-cation, Birthday Parties, and Beach Outing.
Happy New Year Everyone! And may, 2022 is a year for us.
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