Summer has always been one of my least favorite seasons. The heat, the sweat, and the dry sunlight pressing against my skin every time I step out for work can feel incredibly overwhelming, leaving me agitated when I’m out there. I hate those random headaches that come and go, making me irritable for no reason. Since moving to the US, I’ve almost grown to dislike summer even more. Compared to the climate I was used to in the Philippines, it sometimes feels unbearable especially at midday, when the sun is at its peak.

But it changed my opinion of this season when summer 2024 came, which I must say, a game changer in a way. About June of 2024, since I have started to work at a healthcare office, I began meeting new people and friendships I found to be worthwhile. My friends and I would be out and about sharing our favorite mango bingsoo turning Sul N Beans as our little rendezvous, enjoying karaoke nights, and having endless talks about everything and nothing. Our laughter would carry through the evenings every Thursday nights and for once, I realized that I had friends who genuinely cared about me and my well-being.

I celebrated the best birthday at Disneyland to which experience was filled with overwhelming emotions and happiness that blossomed as if I were a high schooler again, feeling the happiness with every laughter and shared moments. And I can say with utmost certainty that my 28th year was one of the best year I’ve had in a while with people I hold closest in my heart.

Although somehow, it has its fair share of moments, but 2 years later, I have learned to treasure the good memories more than the bad. The laughter shared, the joy felt in those unguarded moments, reminded me that happiness comes from the little moments shared with people you connect with. And I know I can look at these photos now with fondness and delight.

Bob Ong once said: “Yung mga pinakamasayang araw ng buhay mo, yun yung hindi utak ang ginamit mo”.

Listening to this original version of Tifa’s Theme will never hit the same again for me; in a good way perhaps.