La Decena

10 creative people sharing thoughts and inspiration.

[ladecena]

I Love You ❤️

           Strong wind makes her long wavy black hair go in different direction, the blazing sun that shines through her beautiful face making her eyes brighter than anything you will ever see, and when the rain showers her at times where she wants to be alone actually made her happy and alive again it’s like washing all her worries, pain and miseries and making them a lesson that thought her to be strong and beautiful on her own.

           Walking a long road on a sunny day is refreshing wearing a comfy shirt, jeans and some nice comfortable shoes unlike others who prefer dresses and high heels, having my hair braided left and right. The pathway I’m walking right now is the same pathway me and my friends always walk to, nothing changes there are still benches to sit to when you are tired the street food corner that is still within sight if you sit in one of the benches. laughing with them is one of the memories I have the most.

           “where already on our second year and we are also together in the same class right?” her friend asked her, they were around 14 years old and on their second year of high school around this time they are still careless, innocent and pure to know the difficulties the world have.

           Walking again on the never-ending corridor of her alma mater, the table they always passed by after greeting the kind guard who where always sitting there, the small basketball court that serves as a temporary court for every student, the canteen monitored by hot-tempered but still always smiling lady’s behind the counter and also the giant tree on the middle where you can eat and also a hangout place together with her friends because of the concrete table and benches.

           “Kim?” a manly voice calls out that momentarily cut-off her being nostalgic and reminiscence all the emotions that she let out in this place

           “Hi, Pastor? I’m glad to see you again” she said smiling at the now grey haired but still strong and resilient looking man who show and guide them all through their walk on the path that they choose.

           “Hello Kim, I see you haven’t really change, lets meet the principal?” she nods and let him walk ahead of her. Nothing really changes in this campus, Kim taught to herself all the stairs, railings, door rooms, and the paints also remains.

           Kim graduated on a nice and outstanding university she even reached her dreams. Having work to support her parents and that work is a part of what she dreamed to be that’s why she was being encouraged to give inspiration to the students who are currently attending her alma mater.

           “Ma’am Carina said there is someone who would accompany me on the day” she’s thinking about who it would be the principal is talking about. Kim was just wearing simple clothes she was comfortable with because it’s just a meeting. Going down to the same staircase she walked by earlier and onto the last step she bumps into someone.

           “Kim?” a voice she hardly hears after graduating on her high school days makes her eyes wider and urge her to look at the male who owns the usual comforting voice it’s warm and inviting, and she loves it the most. Looking up at him he doesn’t seems to change at all he is much taller just right for her to hear his heartbeat every time she would have the chance to lean on his wide shoulder, to hug her and can comfort her anytime. His Brown eyes are firm, steady and prepared to embrace Kim when she falls to take care of her and warm her with love. Smiling at her he really doesn’t change.

           “Paul!” Kim exclaimed her excitement is noticeable “how are you?” she added

           “I’m great, I’ve become who I want to be” he says still smiling at her “how about you?”

           “Still the same, but I also reach the one who I want to be am” Kim says smiling and looking up on him. “So, you are the one ma’am Carina was talking about I guess?”

           “Oh! So, you’re going to be a speaker also? That’s great!”

           Paul ask Kim if she have time and invited her to eat out also for them to have a little chat about what happened in their separate lives after graduating. So, Kim decided to sit on one of the benches in the new canteen that was made before they graduated because Paul is having a meeting with ma’am Carina like she did earlier.

           Blushing and talking to herself.

           “What did you just do!” she scream silently to herself. Ah! It is still refreshing to sit here, it’s a shame we didn’t get to eat and sit here for a long time.

           “Kim!? You’re also late? That’s new” Pamela one of her friend who has a perfect attendance on being late  

             “Yeah! I think my alarm broke” Kim sadly said

             Laughing silently “That’s alright, at least you get to see your crush first thing in the morning. Look!” Pamela teases her while patting her back

              Putting her chin on her hand she whispers “In front of him and even I just see a glimpse of him I’m always blushing, I’m such a Wimp”

 Taking a glance of the guy sitting two table from us but still I know who, I blush again. He looks like he wakes up late and because he lives far away, I think the traffic got him.

             “Kim! Come on I’m finished talking with ma’am” slowly walking to me his smile made me broke from remembering from past. “we should go now?” he asks sitting beside me.

           “Yes! Sure, Let’s go?” walking out and passing the things where I remember most of my happy, sad, exciting, and scarry moments of my life, I’m sure I’ll come back again.

           “You’re driving a car? That’s cool” I say while blushing Paul replied a “Yup” and open the passengers sit for me. I do also have a car but I’m glad I didn’t bring it here and just walk if ever I wouldn’t have a chance to see him this handsome.

           A beautiful place where we sit under a large and fertile tree grasses that you’ll feel on your heel there is also a stone passage you can walk, and yellow lights are spread around the place so when it’s already dark you can still be able to see the one you were with. Sitting across each other is a better way for the two of us to have a clear talk, and its way better for me if we are across each other, I can stealth a look and focus on him.

           “The place is really beautiful, where’d you know this place?” I ask smiling mischievously at him

           “Yeah? Thanks too google” Paul says making the two of us laugh, internet and social media really makes living easier and more convenient for everyone.

           “So, you’re already a Pilot?” I ask him after we calmed down and for us to have a conversation while waiting for the food

           “Unfortunately, but still I’m late at finishing my course” he said staring at me after he look at the stars who are present tonight

           “For 2 years, right? I admire you for continuing your studies. Well, you’re one of the brightest students in our batch” I said to him while also admiring him, he doesn’t really change at all

           “Your still the same, always giving me compliments.” He smiles at me that made me also smile at him.

           As our dinner arrives which is a creamy flavor white sauce pasta that tingle my taste buds and just perfectly creamy that I like, stake that is juicy, tender, and loaded with flavor and lastly a wine that is bright and has a youthful color that perfectly match for Paul while I choose to drink cucumber juice with lemon that I love the most.

           Looks like we made it

           Look how far we’ve come, my baby

             This place we are eating have a live Band not the rock one but the calming one that made this place even more perfect. Most of the guest who where also eating are slowly standing walking on the middle stage part to dance, there are married, teens which are only friends but also couples.

           We might a took the long way

           We knew we’d get there someday

           “Can I have this dance?” walking over me and offering his hands to me looking up at him and placing my hand on his hand and walking through to get on to the center his big, warm and comforting hand guide me all trough our walk

           They said, “I bet they’ll never make it”

But just look at us holding on

We’re still together, still going strong

 “I’m thinking are you always going to be my first dance?” I ask teasing him

He nods his head smile at me and says, “can’t I?” squinting my eyes I placed my hands on his neck and he pulls me close enough for the both of us and for the sake of my heart, I guess?

           You’re still the one I run to

The one that I belong to

You’re still the one I want for life

             He places both his hands on my waist “The last time I held you like this you’re waist still have some fats, but now look at you, you really did change” he says to me I don’t know if his mocking me or complimenting me

You’re still the one that I love

The only one I dream of

You’re still the one I kiss goodnight

           “I’ll take that as a compliment” and we laugh. Like we are young again still in our teenage year full of life, carelessness, innocence and being pure to have any Idea that we would become like this one day.

           I’m so glad we made it

Look how far we’ve come, my baby

 Our day ended with him bringing me home wishing for us to meet again, and for us to convey what we want to say to the current young ones our Alma Mater are protecting and guiding through their journey as an individual.

Casual short sleeve blue summer dress just above her knees and wearing a glass looking 2-inch ankle strap heals finish with a simple make-up and a single half side braided hair Kim walked down on the stage after she finished delivering her encouragement and for Paul to deliver his massage as Paul where speaking a calm and refreshing wind blows making him and her smiling admiringly at each other.

Kim sees again the younger version of herself and Paul that are on the process of making what they are together now has been fulfilled, how the way they see, cherished and care for each other.  

Kim sees the struggles, hardship, and obstacle that they experienced and experiencing up until now. Most especially appearing before her eyes how they manage to overcome their struggles, surpass all the hardship and be successful through all the obstacle laid out for them.

“I hope that all of you even though you struggle like Kim and stop studying for a while like me still dreams and achieve what we both of us have and will just be making.” Paul ends his message smiling at Kim.

Walking again up on the stage with Paul helping Kim by holding her hands. The event speaker congratulates all the student and give acknowledgements to both Paul and Kim.

Kim trusts Paul and Paul believes to Kim, he completes her the most and she fill’s him love that he believes no one could ever give to him. Paul is her longtime crush, and he loves Kim endlessly.

“Once again let’s give our thanks’ to Mr. and Mrs. Cruz for sharing such a wonderful and inspiring message”

- YellowStrawberry💛

June 13, 2021

[ladecena]

“𝐈𝐓'𝐒 𝐀 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇!“ 👄

“Oh, how fragile is your toxic masculinity if a guy wearing makeup and hills threatens you that much.”

It has been 3 years since I fully came out, some of yall would think that it’s been a long time already why am I still making a big deal about it? Why am I still bothering to even slap the fact to everyone that I am a gay person? Haha, anyways I’m not going to talk about that but somehow a relation of that to the struggles we “effeminate” guys go thru in the dating scenes.

To be honest I never, EVER been in any kind of serious romantic relationship what so ever I may have dated a few guys using dating apps and for the past few years since coming out it has been very horrifying unfortunately most of those guys are very much “discreet” or “closeted” kinds of gays, which means they are people in the LGBTQ+ community who have not disclosed their sexual orientation or gender identity and aspects thereof, including sexual identity and sexual behavior.

 Which also means in the dating scene you get to only share your love with each other only, in my experience I was totally fine at first but as I time passes, I just realize that life is short and I just want to be out there and share my love to the outside world. I mean it doesn’t have to be that everyone in general should know but at least not making me feel like I’m some sort of secret to be kept in private because of your shame to get judged by others.

To describe the dating scene for us “effeminate” gays out there we often get depict and discriminated because we are scene as weak, soft, shameful, and an epidemic on the society to describe the dating scene for me is “It’s really freaking HARD!”. 

Especially on how the media portrays feminine gays in the society; “may jowang borta, gumagastos sa lalaki, mahilig sa straight kumilos.” Like for the record? Not all gays are like that, like me. I would love to date someone who shares the same energy or vibe I give.

Like, imagine having to be both effeminate and you both dated isn’t it so fun to just do dress up with each other, doing make up, dancing to lady gaga songs and just sharing both of things we really love about. I mean having that relationship is like having a boyfriend and a bestie at the same time plus you don’t have to pretend all the time there is no what so ever fear and uncertainty, now that is GOALS!

Well even if told everyone including my friends that I am also attracted to effeminate guys they would never believe me, often calling me out phrases and words like “Lasunan, e mas malambot pa siya sayo e.” definitely people specially here in the Philippines has this mindset of having a “boy” and a “girl” in the relationship there’s always someone got to be the “MASC (Masculine)” one.

I mean imagine hearing that from your own part of the community. It really sucks and kind of disappointing to be honest that is why somehow, I have regrets to the people I previously did not pursue dating into a relationship because what if I don’t find someone that will date me again? What if I never get to be dated by anyone ever again? Because often I think I’m not in the standards of being the ideal person to date for being “effem”.. for being myself..

I’m actually in this point of my life that dating makes me scared and horrified because finding a match that will accept you and love you for who you are - “It’s really freaking HARD!”

-𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘉𝘰𝘺𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩✨

June 12, 2021

[ladecena]

Genuine⭐

On the summer day of March, Year 2005 a fresh place in Bani, Camarines Sur met this beautiful family. The people in here welcome this family with a great smile on their face and warm invitations in every household. Everyone is excited to greet each member of the family. Everyone is in wonder of how they wear, how they talk, how they behave because they’re from urban places. Years passed by and this place became their home. Fresh air, fresh food, hospitable people, sea breeze in every morning and chirps of birds everyday. Such a beautiful place to live on.

This family lives peacefully and content with what they have as long as they have each other. Even the kids don’t complain about their lives. Fish and vegetables everyday is fine. Sardines for them are like meat, a special one. Every night they wait for their father to come home from fishing. It’s their habit and favorite part of the day. Waiting for someone they love.

“Mama! Look papa has a lot of fish tonight, 2 basins of fish and…”

 Trish said to his mom with amusement but she did not continue what she was going to say because she saw her favorite toy, a fish with a hand like a crab. She loves to play with her brother.

“Pa, sumo wrestling look!” Javier said, pointing to a crab.

 “Be careful they may hurt your hands if you touch them. ” Rod said to his son.

“Okay it’s time to sleep kids, you saw your father now go to your room but before that wash your hands okay?” Len said.

“Yes mother.” Kids replied with a big smile on their faces.

 On the following morning Trish woke up earlier than usual. She washed her body, ate breakfast and wore her neat clothes. She is about to study in her favorite room, the school. She walked slightly and met her friends along the way. She is quite advanced over her classmates. She knows how to read english books, knows how to read tagalog too without stuttering. Thanks to her father she learned.

“Thank you Trish, very good!” Her teacher said after she read the book.

 “ I want you to be the reader for tomorrow’s flag ceremony, is that okay?” Mrs. Estopasi said to Trish as she moved away from the door of the classroom.

“Yes Ma'am.”

 Trish replied cheerfully. She feels happy and runs to her house with excitement on her face. She tells it to her family with action of course. Trish is not Trish without action while telling a story. The house is filled with words, smiles and dreams. The following morning Trish is excited, she woke up much earlier, combed her hair, wore nice clothes and ran. She is absolutely a good reader among the students in the flag ceremony. Everyone clapped towards her. She may be shy but she has this brave heart to utter some words from the stage. Suddenly at her young age she wanted to teach the children.

“Ouch, ouch the grass is on my skirt Trish” Bea said to Trish. “You can put that off Bea.”

Trish laugh and run. It was an amorseko grass who stuck onto garments. Their job as students, discipline of their teacher, is to pick grass from the front of their room. But students make this time as their playtime. They throw amorseko to each other and run.

“Okay class stop that, you can enter the room and fix your things”

 Teacher shouted while standing in the front of the room. The students tease each other that they must face consequences because their teacher shouted. Everyday the scenario was like this. Contented and happy with their provincial life. Children are easy to smile with the little things.

One day this beautiful family faces it’s turning point. They have nothing to eat but kamote and salt.

“Trish go with your brother, go to Mrs. Anne and borrow at least one measure of rice, tell her  that we will give it to her when there is enough money, tell her also that just for today’s meal”

Trish’s mother said with a pain in her heart. She doesn’t want the kids to suffer from poverty and she doesn’t want them to borrow food from the neighborhood. For a mother like her it’s like a burden to see your child suffering.

Trish walks with his brother and they knock on every household but no one gives. Trish becomes teary eyed and walks home while holding the measurement glass on her hand. “Mother, no one gives me rice” Trish said while her head bowed.

Deep inside her mother felt the pain and told her kids that it was fine. There is sweet potato instead of rice plus later their father will come back home with plenty of fish. The kids accept it wholeheartedly and they fall asleep but Trish told herself that someday we will have a wealthy life, I will study hard to give my family the food, the life that they deserve. She knows deep inside her heart that they will rise from this poverty and someday she will become successful. A dream of a child will always be so magical. She promised it to herself and to God.

The waves of the ocean splash on the boat, the children are saying goodbye and waving their hands. The baggage is all over the boat.

“Goodbye Trish” Ekang said to Trish with a big smile on her face. “Goodbye Ekang, thank you and we will come back soon, I promise”

Trish said with a smile on her face while on the top of a big boat. She knows that she will come back. But she doesn’t know where she is going or how long she will be gone, far away from her beloved province. All she knows was they will go to a place on where they doesn’t need to borrow a measure of rice, eat stewed banana or sweet potato, sell rusted iron to buy sardines,

climb up a tree to get a talisay for merienda, walk far just to go to school or go to neighbors just to watch a television. Because she knows deep in her heart she is about to go far away from suffering. She will go to a world she doesn’t know but she knows she will be in love, feel the love, see the world and make it.

Eighteen years later, a rang of a bell echoing from the school ground made the student run on every room.

I know you see me even though i’m little Now I’m here standing still but not tall

I’m here reading this, for you to know me well And I’m here to share this quiet journey of mine.

Born on the 9th day of December Waked at the east where’s the sun rises

Living with my family to a simple tiny house Eating with them three times in a day

Hitting with my mother’s hanger every time i’ve become lazy

Learned to write my own name and read because of my strict and steel hand father Rudy Singing at the front of the mirror and even in the bathroom

And a fanatic fan of old songs and poems. I’m a soft-hearted person

Easy to cry , easy to forgive, easy to love but not easy to get 19 years of age

Yes I’m the eldest,

The cutest and the tall less.

 My childhood isn’t extravagant, haven’t feel to play with other kids Haven’t climb up a tree

Haven’t experienced to ride on a carousel Or to go on a artificial cold house to travel

But i’ve experienced to sail on a boat just by myself

Just like playing on a huge pail, seeing myself as like an ant whose on the top of a leaf I’ve tasted the sweetness of the flower

I felt the warm hug of nature

I’ve seen how life’s disdain me at the very young age

I’ve aimed to have a lot of money to buy my family a lot of food and I think it’s enough at that time.

But time passed by and I realized i’m wrong. My family isn’t perfect

We fight, we sin, we say badly words to each other, we sometimes don’t listen, but we treat each other and we have fear of God.

This life makes me see that we are the protagonist of our own story,

that we are born to enjoy this gift of life and do not pleased others just to accept us. And to appreciate every single little thing around us and that’s what happiness truly is.

The small classroom filled with claps of hands.

“Very good Trish!” The teacher replied after she heard the poem.

“Thank you Ma'am, thank you classmates.” Trish replied with a genuine smile on her heart and the dream began.

- 🍀 leaf

June 12, 2021

[ladecena]

A Mother's Love🤍

It was lunchtime, but Alliah was not in the school's cafeteria. It was always too crowded and noisy, and the food wasn't the best anyways.

Instead she preferred playing intruments to her heart's content in one of the empty music rooms. Today it was one of her favourites, an acoustic violin. It was one of the school's few undamaged ones, so she handled it with care and hoped no other student would accidentally break it.

Her stomach growled, but she knew the money she had on her wouldn't be enough to buy even a cheese sandwich. To make matters worse tommorrow would be the last day of school before the one week of school holidays, she had no idea how she would be able to survive being home with her mother for the entire time.

She would just go to the library for the entire day or something, was what she concluded.

Maybe she could read up on other types of guitars like last time, or just indulge herself in a random story.

For now, she made the best use of time by practicing a difficult piece she memorised on the piano in preparation for a competition in a few months time. It was being hosted at some rich private school, but she was easily able to enter.

After all she was considered a musical genius. If she was able to at least place in the event then she would win a large amount of money as well as being sponsored by a famous musician who was to attend to be a judge. That would mean she could finally helped her mother for their needs

A ringing in her pocket distracted her from her thoughts, and Alliah rushed to pick up without even checking who it was.

"Hello?"

"Hey...Are you Alliah De Guzman by any chance?"

"Yes? Who are you?"

"I'm Officer Dela Cruz, I'm very sorry to inform you of your mother's death."

"W-what? How?!"

"A hit and run case I'm afraid."

So it what’s happened to me now.

"Am I... going to an orphanage then?"

"Well that hasn't been decided yet. My team found out you have other existing relatives, so we'll contact them to ask if they're willing to adopt you."

She had other family? Her mum had never told her that.

"I-I see..."

"You'll be picked up after school by me, and once again, I'm very sorry for your loss."

Officer Dela Cruz then hung up, Alliah feel very upset after hearing about her mother's death. Because all this time she’s only have is her mother

Alliah’s thought she would come home to a woman who would huged her when she arrived, and the mother who loved her for the rest of her life.

For now, her only worry were these so called relatives. Alliah knew she had a biological father, but had been told once that he had died years ago.

A few hours later...

After school had ended, Alliah waited by the school gates before getting in a police car which pulled up, she was glad it was late since she didn't want to attract attention.

The driver was a petite female who seemed to be in her early thirties and wore a blank face; Alliah assumed she was Officer Dela Cruz.

"Hello again Alliah, I have some more news to tell you, positive this time."

Her other family decided not to adopt her and she could stay by herself?

"Your brother agreed to adopt you immediately, and even paid for your flight ticket to the city he lives in for tommorow!"

Dang it. Wait a second...

"I have a brother?"

"Yes, six older brothers to be precise, I just contacted the eldest one." After seeing Alliah De Guzman she added, "I'm sure it won't be bad."

You try having lots of older brothers you've never met before and see if you like it, lady.

"Anyways, for now, let's go to where you live and you can take what you need as quickly as you can."

Alliah wanted to tell her that it wouldn't take her long since she didn't have much, but then decided against it and helped the officer with directions to the block of flats where she lived.

As soon as they arrived, Alliah could feel the woman's concerned look on her. Let's just say the girl didn't live in the best neighbourhood, and the building was pretty old and run-down.

She quickly got out and ran to the flat she lived in. She found that the door was left open, by none other than her beloved mother.

Upon entering, Alliah was so upset and starting to cry out loud, and instantly hit with the usual stench of cannabis, but ignored that and went to her tiny bedroom. She pulled out a small suitcase from under her bed, and filled it with the few possessions she had. In her schoolbag, she put in her books, music notes and pieces and their pictures with her mom, as well as her sleeping pills.

Once she was done, she dragged her stuff back to the car and finally sat back down into the front seat while crying.

"Before we leave for the airport, are there any friends or places you want to visit Alliah?"

She shook her head, of course she didn't have any friends! It was safer that way, no one could risk finding out about the conditions she had lived in.

The Officer simply nodded and drove them away, and Alliah plugged in her earphones and listened to some Music.

Going through the airport was a bit long, but she didn't mind since it was her first time and she was quite to board the plane. Once she reached the waiting area, Alliah was sipping on a cola Officer Dela Cruz had brought her, and began to stress over meeting her new family.

What if they don't like her? Or they think she's not good enough?

For all people, why does my mother die? And then what happened to me now.. Alliahs thought.

"Officer...Can I ask you something?"

The woman glanced up from her phone and nodded.

"What if I don't like it at my brothers' home? Can I come back here instead?"

Officer Dela Cruz frowned before saying, "Well it's not as simple as that. I'll come in a week or two's time to see how you're finding it and if it really isn't working out- by that I mean things like if there's signs of abuse or the financial situation is bad- then you can come back."

"Ok..." The response hadn't been quite what Alliah expected, she thought a simple 'I don't like it here' would be enough for her to avoid living with these people, but there was more to it than it seemed.

"But hey, once you're 18 there's no stopping you from going or doing what you want, right?"

"I guess. Thanks Officer."

With that Officer Dela Cruz continued scrolling through her phone.

An hour or so later, it was time for Alliah’s flight. It was quite late at night and the plane was due to land in the morning. She shared an awkward but warm hug with Officer Dela Cruz before pulling back.

"See you, and thanks for the cola Officer."

"Goodbye Alliah, and just call me Mel."

Alliah changed her mind, Mel was not as bad as she had initially thought.

While alliah’s in her way to her new family they start to think about her last conversation with her mother.

Alliah’s Conversation with her mother ..

'I really like the sound of your voice everytime you say you love me, baby.'

Alliah smiled softly and stared at her mother eyes, the eyes of the woman whom She have loved for years. She still looks beautiful even with the wrinkles on her face, or with her hair turning into gray.

Alliah’s smiled even more as She reminisce their memories back to the good old days, the days when their still young and strong, the days when their still fully able to get along.

Alliah bent down and searched for a black pen and a paper to write on inside her backpack. While she sits still, silently, calmly taking in its beautiful scenery.

When Alliah finally found the things She needed, She placed it on her lap. Then, She waved her hand which got her mother attention.

"I love you," She uttered and waited for her mother response, wishing she would respond. After all, she has always loved to hear they say these words since She was a kid.

But maybe, She got her hopes too high again because she just stared at her with a knotted forehead, as if she's confused.

Alliah gulped down the longing that She felt, trying so hard to stop her self by crying even when her chest aches too damn much. She still can't understand what I'm saying, she can no longer understand. I've been trying, I've been wishing, I've been praying every single day, begging Him to make her understand me again. Nothing happened.

I held the pen and wrote something on the paper. Then, I handed it to her, now with a big smile plastered on my face. For this queen should not see any signs of weakness from me.

She took it immediately and looked at the paper for a while. And suddenly, tears started to fall from her eyes. I almost panicked, thinking that I made her feel upset. Maybe she sensed it, or maybe she knows me this much that she shook her head before I could even ask her what's wrong.

Without a word, she hugged me. She hugged me really, really tight, making sure that I'd feel her unconditional love with this simple act.

"I love you."

I've been telling her these words for years and I'd still say it over and over again, even if she couldn't understand what she hears anymore.

"I love you, Mama. I will never get tired of loving you. I love you. I love you. I love you."

While thinking of it Alliah’s started to cry again and thinking what happened next with him without her beloved mother.

- MariaGrasya🍃

June 11, 2021

[ladecena]

MY CAT, LULU🐱

It’s been three years since Zoey’s Father passed away from a car accident. Being a daddy’s girl is somehow difficult to accept the fact of the passing of Zoey’s dad.

Zoey recalled the memorable memories that they made as a father and daughter.

She stopped recalling the precious memories of her Dad when the door creaked open.

“Honey, dinner is ready,” her mother quietly said.

Zoey ignored her mother and just shut her eyes as she heard her mom’s invitation.

Her mother understood Zoey’s feelings right now, so she didn’t persuade her daughter to dinner with her.

When Zoey’s mother closed the door, Zoey started to reminisce about the old times when his father was still with them and she drifted herself to sleep.

The alarm woke her up in the morning. She waited for a minute before she did her usual routine. She went to the bathroom and took a bath. After that, she picked her school uniform and wore them. She carefully shoved her feet in her favourite black shoes. She grabbed her backpack on her desk in the corner of her room.

Zoey left her room and walked downstairs to take breakfast. She saw her mother in the kitchen, frying a bacon.

“Good morning,” Zoey coldly said, then proceeded to take a seat at their dining table.

“Good morning, Honey.” Her mother replied with a lively and sweet tone.

Zoey didn’t bother to look as her mother greeted her back. She merely took two eggs for breakfast. After she had eaten, she stood up and went on her way to school.

The school bell rang, many students were celebrating and busy themselves on chitchatting. The class just ended and the students stormed to the cafeteria for lunch.

Zoey was walking alone to go on her usual spot when eating on the rooftop as she found her peace. She pushed the door open and the crispy wind came across her face. The area has a bunch of broken chairs. Unused stuff and boxes and a barracks which is used as storage of the school administration. She walks on her usual spot which is on the side of the barracks wherein a chair and a small table was prepared. Zoey ate her lunch peacefully while she read her book.

As she prepared to leave the rooftop just in time the school bell rang. Zoey cleaned her things and put her book in her bag. She heard a rustle on the boxes stack and a faint noise right away. She was startled to hear it again.

“meow”

A kitten!

“Oh no, what are you doing here little one?”

The kitten moved its way slowly. It is a colored orange kitten. It was a newborn kitten, from what she assumed.

“Where is your mama cat?”

The cat continued to make the sound, making my heart melt as it meowed. She walked near the little cat and sat in front of it. She just stared at the little cat afraid of holding it. She turned her head to look for other signs of cat but nothing she found.

“Are you alone?”

“Oh no! I can’t be late”

She hurriedly walked her way out to the door as the kitten made a sound. She was hesitant to walk past the door but she turned her head to the kitten. She decided to rescue it.

“I’m home!” Zoey informed the people in their home.

“How’s school?—” her mother wasn’t able to finish her sentence.

Zoey just walked past her mother. She went to her room and looked at her bag. The kitten was sleeping inside. She got the kitten outside and looked at it curiously.

Two weeks have passed.

Zoey took the kitten to the vet several times. She was captured with the kitten because it was sweet and nice to her. Her mother knew that she was taking care of a cat so she supported her daughter by providing supplies and necessities for the cat. Zoey noticed that her mother was also looking after the cat and it was growing well. Little by little Zoey learned how to smile and she was always excited to go home to be with her cat. She named the kitten Lulu.

“You are good at taking care of Lulu,” her mother praised.

“It’s because he’s been good to me too” she answered

“Your dad might be happy wherever he is cause you’re also doing fine now”

“Dad sent Lulu for us to be happy even without him”

Her mother’s eyes turned glossy of tears

“I’m happy that your including me”

“Mom I apologize for all the things I have done to you. It might be so hard for you through all the years” Zoey smiled.

“We can overcome this rough time without your dad. As long as you’re with me we can go this through”

“Oh mom, thank you for your patience with me” Zoey hugged her mother.

Lulu is a big part of Zoey’s recovery from the trauma she had on her Father’s misfortune. She got aloof and blamed herself for the accident. Her dad was hit by a car instead of Zoey. Now, Lulu healed Zoey by coming into her life. The kitten made her realize that when life gets astray someone will rescue you. She recalls the time her mother was working hard for their finance, and also for her stubbornness. Her mother did not surrender to rescue her from drowning in sadness. Instead she was patient for her recovery. Lulu made her realize that she loved.

- /thegirlwithherpen/

June 11, 2021

[ladecena]

THE GUARDIAN DEVIL🔖

In this world, chaos is inevitable. It was preoccupied with the fight between humans and devils that were both seeking peace and justice. Devils consume human flesh to survive and so people discern them as monsters and a threat that needs to be eliminated.

Akemi Matsui is a freshman attending Komazawa University in Tokyo. An introvert girl who loves to read books and a student that you would always find in the library. For her, it was a perfect place since she hates noise. The only girl she wanted to be with her was her best friend. Akira Tomodachi, a young lad who has a bright personality. She always smiles and cheer up her best friend. Knowing Akemi, she’s quiet but she used to be talkative whenever Akira is with her. Despite of having opposite personality, the two were capable of each other since they were friends since in primary school.

The tragedy that happened 2 years ago had a huge impact on Akemi. It was in the midst of summer night and their night class was about to start. She was in the hallway heading towards their classroom when a sudden scream of a girl caught her attention. Out of curiosity, she took a glimpse downstairs. Her eyes widened as she saw a creepy human-shape creature that had bloody red eyes with horrible fangs. Her heart started to pound and she was startled when she felt someone’s hand gripped on her wrist. “SSSSHHHHH!” She was enlightened when she found out that it was Akira. They ran upstairs to escape and hid in the library. It was a dark room and the moon was the only source of light. They locked the door and went to the corner. They manage to stay until they fall asleep. The next day, Akemi woke up but Akira was gone. She had a note on her face and so she read it.

“I got to pee, wait me here okay? I will get you some bread at canteen J -Love, Akira”

Akemi smiled at the note, realizing that she was lucky to have a caring friend. While waiting, she looked around to search for some books to read. Since she was a child, she had a strong desire to read. Every time her mother went to a bookstore she always brought her a new one. For Akemi, the smell of the new books gives her a calm and soothing scent and it became her addiction.

After several hours, her stomach started to growl. She then took a look at her watch and noticed that it was already 1:00 pm. A few minutes had passed before she decided to sneak outside and find Akira. Slowly walking down the corridor, she began to recall the creature she had seen the night before, which gave her the creeps. As she went downstairs, she noticed that the classrooms were slightly open and there she found a lot of dead bodies with splashes of blood on the floor. That scene made her depressed and wants to throw up, so she ran towards the comfort room, but the next thing she saw was the body of Akira that was soaked in her own blood. She was breathing heavily and fell to her knees. She cried in so much pain as her heart was crushed into pieces. That was the day when she lost her best friend.

Since then, Akemi was always seen alone with her books. After school, she always has a spare time to visit Akira’s grave before going home. She was alone in her dorm since she decided to move out and live independently after high school. She knew a lot of stuff at home and managed to live on her own. She also has a part-time job as a cashier in a cafeteria.

After a couple of days, Christmas day came. She then decided to gift herself a new book to read. Akemi went to a bookstore. It was big and a lot of books were on sale. She went to the limited books that were placed on the shelves. The one that caught her attention was entitled “The Devils”. She was about to pick up the book when a hand that had pale skin touched it.

“Oh sorry, do you want this book?” he asked.

“Yeah, but—” she was flustered.

“Alright…here” the guy lent the book to her and smiled.

“Are you sure?” she asked.

“Uh… Don’t worry, I might borrow it from you next time.” he then laughed.

Akemi flashed a smile to express her thanks to him.

“Hiro! Hiro Tomodachi!” he extends his hand to her.

“T-tomodachi…” she utterly said and gazed at his face.

“Why?” he asked.

“Nothing. I just remember someone… Call me Akemi”. she smiled and reached for his hand.

That was the first time she met Hiro. Every time she went to the bookstore, Akemi always saw him reading in the corner. Hiro has a mysterious aura, he always wears a hoodie and glasses. You will also notice his sleepy eyes, fine nose, red dry lips and pale skin. He has a serious face whenever he reads a book.

Hiro and Akemi became friends as they meet occasionally. They share a lot of things between them. They both love to read fantasy. That’s why it’s easy for them to have the same perception. However, part of Hiro was afraid to get attached to her. Sooner or later, their friendship might end if he tells the truth about him.

One day, Akemi woke up early to visit her best friend. Today marks the 3rd death anniversary of Akira. She then put white tulips on her grave. Reminiscing the memories of her childhood with Akira, tears started to flow on her cheeks.

“I bet Akira was crying above watching you like this.” she exclaimed, startled by Hiro’s voice.

“H-h-hiro…” she utterly said. “Why are you here?” she asked him while wiping her tears.

“It’s been a long time since I visited my sister.” he said.

“Sister?” she was shocked when she heard it.

“Yeah. Akira was my younger sister. I was his adopted brother.” he explained.

“Akira used to be cheerful, her smile has the power to bring a smile to your face too.” Akemi gazes at Hiro’s face while he was saying it. Hiro looked up at the sky before she looked at Akemi. As their eyes met, she shook her head and it made her blush. “I agree.” she responds.

Akemi lent the book she got on Christmas day to Hiro. The book is entitled The Devils and it says “These creatures are called Devils; they’re blended with people and devour humans.” Those red eyes and horrible fangs that were imprinted on the cover page is the image that may describe those creatures.

“Do you hate them? The devils?” she asked randomly while looking directly at Akira’s grave.

“Yeah… They killed my sister, remember? But you can’t blame them. They just want to survive.” he looked down.

“So you were saying that you would forgive the one who killed Akira?!” she said.

“I guess… You can’t keep that anger in you forever. If you involve your personal feelings, you might end up losing the things that are more important tha—”

Hiro was flustered when Akemi’s hand landed on his face.

“Enough. You’re just talking nonsense.” Akemi got mad at him and decided to go home.

She walked faster as she could, but Hiro followed her and when he was able to catch up, he held her wrist.

“Wait. I’ll walk you home.” since it was already late, she didn’t hesitate.

“I’ve got to tell you something,” he said as soon as they entered her dorm, but Akemi remained silent.

“I’m one of them.” Akemi widened her eyes, she then bit her finger and as it bled, she pointed it at Hiro.

Hiro looked straight at her finger and stepped forward. His eyes turned red and his fangs started to grow. She was afraid of seeing those changes. She then closes her eyes as Hiro grabs her wrist. But the next thing he did was hug her tight and so Akemi burst into tears.

“As long as you’re alive, a lot of things can happen in life. You can’t turn back time and undo things. All you can do is shoulder it all as part of yourself and keep on living.” he explained.

“Do you think the devils were right?” she mumbled.

“Who knows? We fight believing in our own justice.” he responds.

“Why didn’t you eat me then?” she asked.

“Well, that’s because I don’t eat skinny girls and cry babies.” he chuckles.

Akemi punched his chest slightly and was still crying.

“Hate me all you want, but I’ll always protect you, I promise.” he smiled and caressed her hair slowly. As he closed his eyes, he went back to his normal state.

Hiro held Akemi’s delicate shoulder and turned back to her. “Akemi…” The girl glanced at her back while wiping her tears. “I love you… I’ll watch over you forever.” Those words pierced Akemi’s heart and it made her cry. Afterwards, he leaves enveloped in happiness.

Since that day, Akemi always felt like she was being followed, but she believed that it was him. Hiro never shows up himself. Keeping the promise he made to Akemi, he became her guardian devil who always protects her and watches over within the shadows.

  - _ayashiii🌸

June 10, 2021

[ladecena]

DREAM💃💫

Mich Delavega’s ambition is to be a dancer, but her father has refused to support her for no apparent reason. Is she willing to take a chance? Did she carry on with her aspirations despite her father’s disapproval? Was she brave enough to fight for what she truly desired?

I’m strolling slowly down the corridor, thinking about what happened the day before. Dad and I got into an argument over what I wanted, and when he found out that I was secretly competing in a dance competition, he was upset and demanded me to stop. It’s strange until he brings up the matter of my cousin’s accident. What a pitiful excuse, yet it’s true. 

Danica was the first person I met. It’s just me and my one and only best pal. She greeted me with a grin and handed me a piece of paper. It’s a Dance Battle Poster for our Students Days

Flashback

I’m looking forward to coming back home. Danica and I attended a competition altogether. This is our sixth win in this competition; we always enter but keep it a secret from Dad because if he finds out, he will be furious. Dancing is really something he despises. I’m not sure why, but it began when I begged with Dad to enroll me in a dance class. He encouraged me to stop, but I’m a stubborn person, and then there was an accident because my cousin was causing difficulty because of the dance, and my father became upset, as if she was cursing the dance for the rest of his life.

As I arrived home, I found my mother watching TV on the couch and my father reading the newspaper when I opened the door. I approach them from behind and give them a kiss on their cheeks.

When I saw the diploma, prize, and tape of my dance practice and competition, my eyes widened.

“Tell me, what is this Mich Delavega!”

My father was constantly yelling. I put my hands over my ears and close them. I’m terrified.

“How long? 3 years? Did you just spend all of my money on dancing?”

While I was crying, my mother sat next to me and embraced me so tightly. Why was Dad acting so strangely? In my head, I said.

End of flashback

That day has stayed with me to this day. I’m in the library at my school. I’m pursuing BSBA since it’s what my father wants me to do. They are businessmen/women, and I am the next in line to become our company’s CEO.

After a few hours, school was over. We were both eager to go home, so I got to work right away. Danica, on the other hand, interrupted me. She invites me to join her in a studio with her.

We don’t need to drive because Jigs Studio is close to our school. We arrived at the studio’s entrance. When I hear music blaring, my heart jumps. It really is as if it’s encouraging me to move, sway, and enjoy the beat. I smile quietly at myself.

I’m really looking forward to the battle. I can’t seem to stop grinning. This is my dream, which my father has thwarted.

The competition was about to start when we found a seat.

“Hello there, everyone! Thank you for attending this battle. I know you’re all excited to see this, so let’s get this fight started between Black mamba and Higher kids!!!!” The host said

 And we’re all clapping, and I can hear some audience members shouting from every nook and cranny of the studio. In a few moments, the two contestants will be here, facing each other. Each contender will showcase their moves on the platform in the first round. In round two, they choose one member to defy their group and battle against the other, and in round three, one of the audience members will perform the song that they have picked.

We’ve been through much too much. Danica and I had a good time during the match. When I returned home, I found my mother seated on our couch, watching television.

“Hello, mom,” I said, smiling.

“What’s the matter with you? Are you all right?” My mum replied casually

“Mom, I’m fine. By the way, I need to get some sleep.”

I went to my room, changed into my pajamas, and fell asleep in my bed.

I awakened the next morning with a playful smirk on my face. Today I’m in such a great mood. I get out of bed and begin my morning routine.

I excitedly entered our kitchen, and while I ate my breakfast, mom noticed me and kissed me on the cheeks.

I finished my meal and went to see my father. I need to tell him something when I’m in the backyard, I smell some burning plastic. I walked to where it came from and my jaw dropped when I saw my things get burnt.

"Daddddddddddd!”

I raced up to him and tried to stop him, but it was too late; my possessions had went up in flames. While observing the fire, I slam myself on the grass. When the fires are all out, I stare angrily at my father.

"You deserve it. This is your punishment." 

"What do you mean Dad?! I’m not sure why you feel that way and you need to burn my stuffs, which were extremely valuable to me!”

I cried as I ran inside our home.

Mom came in my room to console me. When she saw my sad face, she looked so sorrowful.

“You’re aware of how much I cherish you. You are my daughter. You grew up beside me. I fell madly in love with those beautiful eyes the first time I saw you. Even though it was difficult for me to accept those gorgeous eyes, I did so because I believe that if I put my hand on you, you’d be mine. You are going to be my daughter. She cried as she stated it.

"Why are you bringing this up now, Mom?” As I stated earlier

Moms, like dads, have an odd habit of saying gibberish.

“Sweetheart I’m not your biological mother.”

“You can’t play at me like that, mom, I’m not a fool.”

“Please accept my apologies.”

When she apologizes, I take a serious expression on my face. Is this true? Is this a dream? If that’s the case, kindly wake me up. I despise these feeling. I turned to face my mother, who was sobbing in front of me. A lot of people were staring at us as well. To grab her attention, I mimic a cough.

“What is her name? What is the name of my mother?”

“Your mother Mich is your father’s first wife.”

“Is that my father’s explanation? Why is he putting pressure on me to give up my ambition of becoming a dancer?” Mom gave me a nod as I spoke.

Dad walked on me and looked me in the eyes.

“She is, she’s your mother. That is why I do not want you to pursue a career as a dancer. That dream will destroy you, as well as our family. "My father’s eyes welled up with tears as he spoke.

It was the first time I had ever seen him cry. "Is it a lot of pain?” In my head, I asked.

“Your mother abandoned us. She had only just given birth and had already departed. She is unconcerned about us. She is more dedicated to her passion than the rest of us, and I don’t want you to follow in her footsteps. That’s why I’m putting a halt to you.

"Dad embraced me and grabbed my shoulder.”

"Can you put your faith in me, Dad? I will never abandon you, father, as she did.” I said this while gazing him in the eyes. He turned around to avoid looking at me.

I take my father’s hand in mine. While I’m face the ground, he glances at me.

“I apologize for not being a good parent to you. I’m sorry that I’ve gotten selfish since I’m a useless father. I let you show me what you were passionate about.”

“Do your best,” he added as he walked away. 

“I’ll make my dad proud!” I said

Tomorrow morning, I arrived at Danica’s house, we agreed to enter a dance competition. All I know is that I want to impress my family, so Danica and I put in a lot of preparation and effort before the competition, and it is quite difficult for us.

The competition will begin in three weeks. We’re both exhausted, but we’re having a great time.

Danica and I are both excited and worried on the day of the completion. Our names are called by the presenter after several hours, and we confidently walk up to the stage.

I began to sexily dance in a chair. It’s wonderful. Dance made me feel strong, seductive, and fearless! There’s something about dancing in a new and vulnerable way in my heart that makes me happy. To be honest, when I did chair dance, I felt like an acrobatic goddess.

Danica moves sexily in the chair as well, lowering her upper body to the seat and slowly lifting her feet off the floor until her legs are in the air. She pauses for a second to catch her breath before smiling.

We ended the song by posing beautifully in front of a lot of people clapping on us. We smiled and hugged each other.

“We made it!” I whisper

In the end, we succeeded. We’re ecstatic because this is the first time I’ve ever danced in front of many audience, and my father is seeing me perform live.

We’re still here to thank everyone in the crowd and the judges, even though the program is ended.

In back stage, I saw my family.

“Mom! Dad!” I shouted something and dashed over to hug them.

“You did a great job, sweetheart,” my mother replied, beaming.

I fixed my gaze on my father. Before we departed, he gave Danica and me a bunch of flowers and congratulated us.

When we came home, I went straight to my room to rest, and then my father called me. I take a few steps forward and open the door.

“Hello, Dad!” He smiled at me and instructed me to be in my room.

He handed me a medium-sized box and added, “I forgot to give this to you.” I’m happy for you. This should be kept.

“Thank you, Dad!” I said

I was shocked when I found a necklace and key, as well as a camera and two papers. I take the key first and turn to face my father.

“I bought one of the studios near our house,” he continued, “so you and Danica can practice there.”

“I know you wanted to go to a dancing school when you were younger, but I’m not permitting it; nonetheless, I believe it’s not too late to join you, right?!” I hugged him tightly and cried.

“Thank you dad, you made me happy. Thank you so much! I promise you I will work hard to make you proud. ”

“You don’t need to work hard to make me proud because right now I’m so proud of you.”

We smiled and hugged one other passionately.

I run into a lot of challenges in this world as a result of pursuing my dream. Nothing can readily obtain it. Before we can get what we really want, we need to go through the needle hole. We must be strong and confident, but we must also remember to smile. To all of us, Dream is really significant because it leads to success. So keep dreaming and, if you truly want something, take a chance, even if it seems impossible. I am Mich Delavega, A Business Woman and a Professional Dancer.

- peachy k. 🍑 

June 10, 2021

[ladecena]

MY BRIGHTEST STAR🌌🌠

May 14,2020

11:15 pm

There are 45 minutes before my birthday. I got out of bed, holding my phone, because I couldn’t sleep no matter what I did.

I slowly opened the door and tiptoed out of my bed, taking care not to let it creak. Everyone in the house is still sleeping, so I can’t make any noises that would wake them up. Since my throats were dry and I needed to remain hydrated, I went to the kitchen to get a glass of water. After all, I can’t be dehydrated because I’m supposed to be hydrated all the time.

I walked out of the house wearing my oversized T-shirt and night shorts, leaving my glass on the counter. Since there were some torches, the whole subdivision was quiet and dim. The sky was lovely, but the boy who had just entered with his silver bicycle was even more so. I told myself, “Shut up, all boys are gorgeous.”

“Are you ready?” Miguel stated as he brushed his long, silky golden hair back with his lovely fingers. I grinned and walked over to my pink bicycle in the garage. “Where is your gear?”

“Where is your gear?” I questioned as well after noticing that he had not brought his. He squinted and raised one of his thick brows. “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. Especially because you’re here with me.

His lips curled into an endearing grin, exposing his charming dimples. I got on my bike and pedaled down the road first, hoping he’d be close behind.

The cool night breeze caressed my face and caused my hair to fly, making me happy. I took a left and later realized Miguel was standing right next to me. He hasn’t changed since I first saw him with his hair flying and his aesthetic dark eyes. He is still the boy I loved and admired, still admire, and will still genuinely love.

11:30 pm

“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” Just don’t breath—“

“Do you want me to die horribly?” When my eyes accidentally went down, I exclaimed. I screamed and turned away, my eyes closed. Miguel sighed and his hands rested on my shoulders, which helped me relax a little. Only a little bit. I’m in a panic, crap.

“What I mean is, don’t breathe too quickly; instead, breathe slowly. Exhale slowly after taking a deep breath, then repeat. I’m telling you this because I don’t want you to die, okay?” He said calmly, which made me feel bad for screaming at him while he was simply trying to help me from panicking.

I followed his instructions and, to my surprise, it succeeded. When Miguel wrapped his handkerchief around my knee to cover the cut, I slowly opened my eyes and yelped in the quietest way possible. When he kissed it after tying it, I bit my lip and felt my face flush. He got up and extended his hand to me, which I gladly accepted.

“Are you all right now?”

“Thank you very much, Miguel.”   I smiled, and he smiled even more. God, I love that face.

“Oh, if you weren’t so stubborn, you wouldn’t have gotten hurt.” He said it with a little frown on his face, which made me laugh because he’s so sweet when he’s upset.

“If you hadn’t been there, I would have passed out in the middle of the road right now, but I’m still standing and breathing.” As I smiled, his frown vanished, and all he did was shake his head before walking to get his bike.

 “You’re stubborn as hell. As he grasped the handlebars of his bike, he uttered. “Instead, let’s go for a stroll.”

“If I’m right, give me 500 pesos.” Your favorite shirt right now is the blackpink t-shirt I gave you.” Miguel muttered something and smirked as he looked at me and the path we were walking on.

“Wrong my favorite shirt is the other black pink t-shirt which I bought last Saturday. “I confidently replied and smirked back at him. Aw, you don’t love me anymore?” he pouted and gave me that cute puppy look. My weakness.

“oh my gosh, stop that. You look like an idiot.” Yes I’m a great liar.

“ugh, darn it.” He huffed and continued walking, which made me chuckled because of his cuteness.

It became quiet after. Enjoying the peaceful and satisfying cold wind with each other’s company was already enough.

I know in my heart that he has a problem but he didn’t want to share it with me and I respect his decision.

“ Has the thought of leaving me ever cross your mind?” I asked out of nowhere to cut the silence while we’re walking down the silent road with our bikes.

“Yep.” I pouted and glared at him immediately when he said but he just laughed. That hurt right into my heart. “ What, if I am be pooping, you wanna watch?”

“Gross, of course not.” I cringed which made him laugh harder. His laugh is annoying but also cute but its pissing me off but I still love it.

“How about you? Ever thought of leaving this handsome boy?” he raised his eyebrows up and down while staring at me, waiting for my answer.

“I don’t wanna promise that I won’t because we never know what will happen in the future but I assure you that no matter what happens, even if the worlds screwed up, we’re screwed up, I will always stay with you.” Miguel stopped walking so I did too and looked at him. He smiled at me before starting to walk again.

His smile didn’t reach his eyes.

11:45 pm

“Don’t go yet.” I whined quietly while softly pulling the sleeve of his hoodie. I know that its late and he might be tired but I wanna be selfish even just for now.

“Alright then, my princess.” Miguel smiled and pulled my hand going inside our house silently. Miguel being Miguel, he didn’t make the slightest noise even in closing closing the door. It was dark but with Miguel’s hand holding mine, I know that I shouldn’t be afraid.

When we reach my bedroom, he gently pushed me inside and slowly pushed the door behind him while his sexy dark eyes were staring into my soul, dominating me. He took little steps going towards me, not cutting eye contact, and as if I’m frozen, I stood still staring back into his beautiful dark grey eyes until I could feel and smell his strawberry scented breath.

“Let’s go stargaze even if I know to myself that gazing at you is better.” He huskily uttered before smiling and pulling my hand to go out the window. He assisted me to climb up the roof carefully before he followed.

He gently guided me to a spot between his legs where I could sit comfortably. As his arms wrapped around me and his big hands devoured my tiny hands, I laid my back on his chest.

Nothing beats sitting on the roof with the guy you want to spend the rest of your life with, gazing at thousands of sparkling stars in the midnight sky, which isn’t quite midnight yet, but let’s call it that anyway.

 “Did you know that the sun is a star?” Miguel said as he rested his chin on my left shoulder. Our eyes glued on the sky full of stars above us. 

“uh-huh.”

“Personally, I think that stars don’t appear only at night because if it only appears in the darkness, the isn’t it unfair that it doesn’t appear during bright days?” he said in a serious expression which made me laugh a bit. 

“That doesn’t make any sense. And the sun is a star because science shit.” I replied which made him laugh as well.

“Yeah I know, I didn’t know what to say so I just wasted my saliva for bullshit.” He said while chuckling because of his darkness. What he said didn’t really make sense but he’s still cute so never mind.

“but let me tell you something, my princess.” He sat properly so I faced him to give all of my attention.

“if all the stars disappears, that doesn’t mean that its over. Darkness is everywhere already. No, don’t forget that the moon is still there, there to light up the darkness. And it lights up the most. So don’t ever think that you’re alone and your life is pure darkness just because the stars disappears.” He smiled for a while before continuing.

“the stars will appear again. But they may not be the same stars from before again.”

11:55 pm

When I got tired of watching the stars above the sky. I faced Miguel.

Miguel had the same dark grey eyes. The same dark grey eyes I used to always stare at since when I was six. He had the same small nose. The same small nose I used to always poke when we were toddlers since it was cute. He had the same chubby and soft cheeks. The same cheeks I used to always squish whenever I’m ecstatic, annoyed, sad, or normal. He had the same sexy pinkish lips. The first same sexy pinkish lips I kissed when I was ten. He had the same long golden hair. The same long golden hair I used to braid or play with when im bored though I always envy his hair since its straight and silky more as hell than mine. And lastly, he had the same effect on me.

Only realizing it now, his face was only an inch away from mine. His deep breaths made me look hotter.

“Advance Happy Birthday, I love you my princess.” Miguel said.

I slowly shut my eyes as tears started forming in my eyes. Seconds have passed and sobs started to come out. I slowly opened my eyes to look at the time.

12:00 AM 

May 15, 2021

“It was all a dream” I told myself.

Miguel died because of the car accident. If only I hadn’t been selfish and let him go home that night, maybe he’s still with me right now celebrating my birthday.

It’s been exactly a year since my star vanished.

It’s just unfair that among billions of stars out there, he’s the one chosen to be vanished.

I held onto the shirt he gave me a year ago on my birthday while crying hard. It will never not be painful as hell.

His smile, his eyes, his dimples, his long golden hair, my Miguel that I will never get to see anymore.

“Wherever you are right now, I hope you’re happy.” I sobbed while looking above the sky full of stars. “I don’t do promises but I’m doing it now. I promise that I will continue living the nights with different stars. Only for you, baby. I miss you so much.

 - meng✨

June 09, 2021

[ladecena]

FELICITY🦋

“She is not a painter but she drew many lines on her wrist. Slowly the red liquid flows from the lines of varying lengths. She is not afraid. Her tears were dripping on the floor.” Our lives are full of many colors. But why on some pages of my life, I cannot see any color. With so many people in this world, why do I seem to be alone? “She’s just acting!” “It’s only on her mind!” “She just wants pity!” “She only wants attention!” words I hear from them. It is just a simple mental illness for some people, but they do not know that it can cause the taking of a life.

My parents named me Felicity. It means ‘happiness’. That’s why I grew up as a happy child, they called me “Ligaya”. I have 6 siblings and I am the eldest. Five of us will go to private school and my other two siblings are still young. I am currently studying in a private school, 3rd-year College, and the course I took was Bachelor of Arts in Communication. My mother is a teacher while my father works for a well-known company.  They try their best to get us to go to a good school. But we can hardly be with them for long because they are so busy but we remain happy and in love. I mostly take care of my little siblings. As the eldest, I often did the household chores such as cooking, washing, and so on. When mama is not at work, I help her do the laundry. But it’s not always fun and abundant, the year has come that will test us and others.

 There was a pandemic that tested everyone. Many lost their jobs, businesses went bankrupt and closed, and some students did not continue their studies due to the lack of gadgets to use for online classes. My mother lost her job because not everyone was allowed to continue teaching. We were deeply affected by this news. Also, my father lost the job that our family hoped for because the company he worked for went bankrupt. So almost all the money we saved was spent little by little. My younger siblings need to transfer to a public school. We no longer know where we can get the money to earn. My mom tried to sell a lot of clothes but she was scammed and went bankrupt. That’s why we were in debt then. And there’s a lot of problems that have come to us. My third brother Mark became Covid positive and had to be taken to the hospital alone. I knew he could get through it because Mark was brave and strong like me.

 Meanwhile, we were quarantined for the safety of our family. We had almost nothing to eat so we sold everything we had just to make money. My mom lost weight because she always wondered to Mark how he was doing. I also started to lose interest in everything.  I don’t know what’s happening to me, there are nights that I suddenly cry and I always want to be in my room. My parents worry about me every day and they ask me what my problem is but I can’t answer them. I just want to be alone. I can’t do my paperwork at school anymore. I couldn’t even talk or tell them things that ran through my mind. Even my friends at school or even my siblings can’t express my feelings because I’m afraid of being judged. After all, I’m too confused. I couldn’t smile anymore, I was always in my room. On social media, I can bring out all my problems at school and home. But no one even asked me how I was? Or what is happening to me? Only my parents worry about me but I don’t want them to think about me. Add to my thoughts are people who say I’m just acting or that I just want attention. Don’t they know how I feel? There are days when I just want to commit suicide. I ask God why I need to experience all of this. Sometimes I blame God for all the things that happened to me and my family. One day, while my father was busy arranging for Mark’s belongings to be taken to the hospital, he read bad news on his cellphone that Mark was gone, my beloved brother was gone. We never saw Mark again, we only saw his ashes. My parents can’t accept what happened. They had to go to my grandpa and grandma’s house to borrow money for the bills left over from Mark’s hospitalization. I need to get out of my room and fight my thoughts and feelings to help them. While I was cooking, someone called me and said that my parents had an accident. I don’t know how I feel, I was suddenly stunned and I don’t know what to do. I immediately went to the hospital where they were and I told Joy to take care of our younger siblings. When I arrived at the hospital, the guards would not let me in because they were restrictive and needed to follow some protocol, but I needed to know what the condition of my parents was. Later, a doctor came out and I immediately talked to him. I asked him how my parents were doing. They said that they tried to save my father but it’s all too late. While my mother is comatose and needs a large amount of money for my dad’s funeral and my mom’s hospital bills. 

I feel so much pain because I don’t know what to do for my parents. I immediately went to my grandparent’s house to tell them the bad news and asked for help. I first took my siblings there so that someone would watch over them while I took care of my father’s funeral. Because of the pandemic, it is not possible to have a long hill. So my father was buried for only two days. We borrowed some money from the relatives of my dad abroad.

While I was walking to the hospital I didn’t realize that it was raining so I went to the church near the hospital. As I walked to the altar approaching Him, my tears flowed as I stared at Him and said what else we had to go through. And I couldn’t help but scream in pain “What else do you want to take from me? You took all the things that I have! You took Mark and my dad, that’s enough! ” I have lost two important people in my life and my mother is almost dying. I have approached a lot of people but none of them attempt to help us. So I had to find a job because I was afraid of losing my mother too. So I fight everything in my mind. But because of the pandemic, it’s a hard time for me to find a job, especially restricting everything because of the virus. So I just worked in the cafeteria near our house. 

My mom hasn’t woken up for almost two weeks and her hospital bill has been going up. After work, I’ll just take a look at my siblings and my grandparents. Every time I went there, my siblings ignored me because they were angry with me, they said I couldn’t do anything for mama as I was the eldest. But they don’t know how much I want to help our mother. I felt even more that I was alone in the world. While I was working in the cafeteria, my boss suddenly shouted at me because I was stunned.  I just entered the comfort room because I was so embarrassed. I saw something sharp when I was inside and I don’t know why I thought of hurting myself. As my tears flowed as well as blood dripped from my arm. I just woke up lying in the hospital. When I woke up I saw Erika, my youngest sister. I tried to get up to go to her but the nurses stopped me and said that my youngest sister was also positive for the virus as well as my sister Joy. As the nurse told me about the condition of my siblings I don’t know how I will feel. 

As I was stunned an old man approached me and spoke to me. He asked me why I tried to commit suicide. But I couldn’t answer his question because I also didn’t know the answer. He also asked me if I believed in God and I suddenly looked at him and just nodded. “If you believe that there is a God, why do you want to disappear from this world? Why would you give up? ” You know many of us only know God as our savior but most of us only know Him when we need something. But the commitment and faith in Him is nothing. They just know God but don’t have a deep relationship with him. And that is one of the reasons why we give up immediately. I saw a lot of your problems and yes it’s hard but you have to be resilient and you have to surrender everything to Him. Just wait for His great plans for you. Sometimes we tend to forget what God’s value is when we already have everything we want and at the end of the day, we will come to Him again when we don’t have those things anymore. It is important that you put your full trust in Him and that we accept Him wholeheartedly. ” As that man says all those words, my tears continue to fall, and I realize that man is right. I should not blame the Lord for what happens to me and my family today. I may lose something in my life but I know that there will come a good and new hope in my life after all. When the old man left I immediately looked up in the sky and apologized to Him. God sent that old man so that I could realize the value of life and the value of God in our lives. And since I trusted in the Lord’s plan for my life, my prayers began to be heard. My mother woke up and papa’s rich friend helped us to get mama out of the hospital. My siblings and I became negative and I already had a job and I was able to provide for our daily needs. Lastly, we live happily and we know that God is always with us, protecting us and guiding us. I am now aware that God is always in control and He always provides for our needs.

- matahom👄

June 09, 2021

[ladecena]

Homebody Lady🍂

[Hat Tip] Hi everyone at this moment I want you all to read this story of someone who is having a hard time doing a task to inform all individuals who are willing to read information of her personal hobbies, once upon a time is already overused but still, I would like to use a mainstream introductory so here it goes.

Once upon a time a baby girl who becomes a not so fine lady turned to be the only daughter of her mother and father the fun and active childhood was overcome by her but during teenage times the active child, she is have turned to be a homebody lady. Going out just to buy something and runs back to her cave called room facing her cellphone scrolling through Facebook, giving heart on IG picture, retweeting on her Twitter feed that comes from across the world and once her cellphone was out of batteries standing up from a different position, she goes to sit in front of her Computer to watch different funny clips to funny speeches going to sad clips and just retiring and just watch movies to her taste.

Along the way as days goes by her almost active day changes when she comes across a movie called A walk to remember she falls in love like love at first sight, from the start the movie almost bore her out because it just shows to her a group of crazy teenage students like her making fun of someone inferior to them but then she continues to watch because she has nothing to do anyways. Noticing the lead actor that looks like someone she knows which is her ex-boyfriend, just kidding because she realizes almost immediately that she hasn’t had a boyfriend ever since she knows. So, going back on the story the lead actress appears singing a song on the church where her father is a pastor, as she studies her, she immediately notices the radiating beauty, sweetness and innocence the actress have caught her attention once again, as the story goes by and all her attention were focused on the movie, she felt every emotion available that the story offers, having a happy smile when they did get back together, having a fluttering heart because of their sweet moments, and also becomes a crying mess at the end of the story she was watching. The ending was perfect, bittersweet but was able to convey all the message it wants to deliver on the last part of the movie he quoted “But our love is like the wind. I can’t see it… … but I can feel it” and the song that was amazingly accurate to the story played was the best that makes her smile while tears falling endlessly on her cheeks and snot grossly coming out of her nose.

That night she wasn’t able to move on quickly, lying down on her bed imagining different things like what if the story goes like this or goes like that but still at the end, she realizes that it’s already in did perfectly as it is. Sleeping quickly is what she wants to have already to stop her from thinking and grabbing her phone, but she’s just a simple-minded lady easily tempted making her sleepiness go away like how boys move on from having a girlfriend to courting another lady they met. So, getting her phone and searching for another movie to watch is what she did like “A walk to Remember” whose a famous work of Nicholas Sparks she look for his other pieces then she stumbles on “The Last Song” she decided to watch it next after scheduling it for tomorrow she was inspired to sleep to wake up early for her tomorrows schedule of being a homebody lady she is. She closed her eyes saying goodnight to herself the darkness she gets as she closed her eyes slowly lightens and bringing her to the world she was watching earlier, chirping sound of nature, laughing voice the teenagers around her and finally the simple and beautiful lady walking through the corridors passing by the good-looking man who will be change by her, she’s indeed dreaming.

- YellowStrawberry💛

June 08, 2021

[ladecena]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐭 🌞

I remember that day way back 2009, I was with my Lolo at the mall and saw this beautiful, luxurious, and cute red jacket that I immediately got me in jaw drop, I stared at it like it’s an artwork I also remembered it was a from a shop named “Chanel” thinking about it now as a kid I should never thought a clothing would ever amaze me instead I should be more interested in toys, games, and playing but there was something that sparked at me during that time I saw that jacket even told myself “One day I would wear one of those” I also remembered when my older cousin saw me staring at it and told me “Onecho that’s for girls!” never did it cross to my mind that it was for girls I eventually just wanna wear it because it looks so good.

But years after being living in a household full of men and people who mindsets are more of the old traditional ways of culture of gender appropriate standards like boys supposed to do the tough works and that showing a little bit of emotions and expressing yourself makes you less of a “Man” and that girls should be the one staying at home, doing house works, taking care of the family, and being obedient to her husband or the “Man” of the family. I use to be living just fine with-it but there’s this other side of me that keeps on pushing me out to be different and one person really inspired me to break these typical stereotypes and it was my beloved Aunt, Tita Maria Jaydie Satorre or “Tita Duday” cause that’s what we call her.

She is the most hardworking and brave woman I ever met in my life, I used to be so very inspired by her and everything she do specially for breaking the borders of what my family usually believes in at, she is a single mother and was the bread winner of the whole household even if the number of men in my house no can do the things like her I rarely ever see her complain or even see her breakdown even if everyone was rough to her she just showed her superiority and fight to be successful, one advice from that I probably would keep my whole life is to “If you work hard planting, taking care of it, making it grow you deserve the fruits of those labor and its up to you to who you want to share it to.”

So, from that day on I started to believe that I want to be able to break my family’s mentality over what they think is sexually appropriate or even any of the old traditional cultures they believed at, I really tried up until now and it’s still a very long road to come but I know that I can be able to make that happened if I kept on being myself.

At 21, today I stand to be very true to myself, fight for what I think is right, and for what make myself happy and the best thing that helped me cope with all the stress and pressure despite of everything that is happening to my life. Fashion is one thing that keeps me at peace from all the chaos of the world.

Many might think that what I’m doing was wrong, will judge me, see me differently, and discriminate me for expressing myself but I would continue doing it knowing that I met people online that made me believe that there is hope to change these kinds of mentality those people are my second family if I’m being honest, I know that it’s a hard thing for most people to see it as a normal thing specially that we want to break the borders of sexually appropriate clothing’s or even things that the typical usual men would wear. But we believe that boys and girls that are not afraid to show their self despite of the harsh outcomes are very powerful people because Toxic masculinity is a real thing and it triggers when boys are showing femininity and getting benefit of getting attention or even when girls are showing superiority against to work and provide or even show toughness. -𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘉𝘰𝘺𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩✨

June 08, 2021

[ladecena]

“𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐀 𝐈𝐒 𝐀𝐍 𝐄𝐘𝐄, 𝐏𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐈𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐄”📸

When I was in high-school I’ve always dream of having a camera. It amaze me specially when I hear it’s ticking sound, it fascinates me to take pictures on my own. For me, pictures are wonderful and having a camera on your own is peculiar. And I think that’s the only thing I know about photography and pictures. I didn’t see anything but the beauty of it and I didn’t consider the meaning. But time goes by, I saw the purpose of pictures, of how it looks like. I’ve seen real stories, deep meaning and deep feelings that if you will dig into it you’ll see the truth that will let the picture free. I’ve seen that pictures creates story, and story creates engagement & brotherhood but more than that it creates door to everyone to witness the hope. There is an eye to see, who is ready to help, who have this companion and heart to act. Camera is an eye and picture is the voice.

By that, I want this humble picture of mine to take it’s way. This photo taken after the typhoon Ulysses. It was on the 13th day of November 2020 at Barangay San Roque, San Pedro Laguna. An unexpected tragedy that shocked a lot of people. This picture screams help, destitute, ache, starvation and home. Other government officials do not pay attention. Simply because they are blinded by their powers and position. These people needs a helping hand to protect them, to give them enough food to eat. Kids are suffering. They do not deserve this at their very young age. Their hands needs rope for assistance, their feet needs well passage and not wet passage to walk through, their body needs heat at this cold moment, their stomach screams for warm soup, they don’t care about the ingredients at least they are full and a home to sleep on. But to whom, where and when they will get that? The problem is their small voice, they scream but they are corded by this poverty, by this unequality and by this rotten system of the government. At that time their eyes talked to me saying “help”. I realized that as a simple individual I can help through volunteering and to be their voice as I took their pictures. Maybe it is a simple one, a simple act of helping but to me this picture of them makes sense as long as they are the subject. Writing creates a new door and a new beginning. Let us begin to help.

Therefore, picture is an alternative voice of those people who can’t speak not because they are silent but because of the poverty. Picture is not just a static picture. Picture is art, but it is more than that. It was a light. A light to enlighten the people’s eye, a light to touch their heart and a light to connect to their soul. Taking pictures makes sense the moment you offer your heart to it. I am happy when I took pictures, it makes me powerful because I’m not just expressing my talent, I show the reality of that photo. Pictures creates story, a story that turns the imaginary into reality. Because sometimes picture is the voice of the unspoken feelings. As like Ansel Adams said, “You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” You and your picture matter. Serve people, save people.

- 🍀 leaf

June 07, 2021

[ladecena]

𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐊𝐀🎶

Hi I’m Mary Grace F. Rocafort, I am 3rd year college student at Pamantasan Ng Lungsod Ng Muntinlupa in Bachelor of Art and Science, I come from a family of seven and I occupy the fourth position. My father is a Baranggay volunteer, while my mother is a vendor. We are very close in my family and I can tell my parents just about anything.

My hobbies include, reading, watching movies and listening to the music. But Listening to music has always been my go to activity for all occasions. My love for music can be traced back to when I was a child. There are recorded videos of me as a child becoming hyperactive whenever music was played. I would run to the stereo, turn on the music to full volume and start running around dancing. Anyone who dared touch the sound system would face my wrath. Music was the only thing that could calm me down whenever I cried. I always have this weird feeling that my destiny is somehow intertwined with music. Music runs in the whole family. I remember the nights, we used to do karaoke sessions where everyone took turns to sing a song, including our parents. We had these sessions recorded and then our neighbors always watching to us because they said that were like a band because of our good voices.

Music gives me the needed refuge whenever I feel like my head is spinning and I just want to shut out everything around me. The good thing about music is that there is music for every occasion and feeling. Whenever I feel depressed, I listen to sad songs. They guide me and keep me company during those trying moments. Whenever I’m happy, I have a collection of party songs that I dance to for hours to amplify the good feeling. The beauty of music is that it can be incorporated with other hobbies. For instance, I love reading a good book, as nice orchestra music is playing in the background. Another good thing about music is that it is universal. You do not have to understand what the musician is saying for you to enjoy it. If it makes you feel good, then it is worth listening to it. I’m naturally open minded when it comes to music.

Music is a language of emotion for me, it can represent different feelings into my soul with no boundaries or limitations. I always challenged by the fact that “no one understands me or know how I really feel, so I turn on the music and I’ve found that no matter what life throws at me, music save me from sadness.

My music isn’t just music for me, its also my medicine.

- MariaGrasya🍃

June 07, 2021

[ladecena]

𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬☁️

Greetings! It is my pleasure to write this one of my biggest realization in life to inspire other peers and encourage them to be aware about themselves. By the way I am Shaila Regnim from BACOM 3B and I have a few question for you to start on.

Do Yourself feeling blue and at times don’t know the reason? Are you feeling unmotivated or lacking the energy to complete your goals? Would you label yourself as a ‘people pleaser’ because you recently discovered you say “Yes” to things you would rather say “no” to or at least find the courage to say “let me think about it”?

Too often we live life on autopilot, stay stuck in our patterns or routinely repeat the same “mistakes”. We want to change, but feel discouraged with the task at hand and rather live a less than fulfilling life. We stay in an unhealthy relationship, or continue to work at the job that drains our life energy or never find the courage to move forward with our business idea. Whatever it is, living small and not taking charge on one’s life breeds negativity and feelings of hopelessness which can turn into depression and/or many other physical tensions, illnesses and/or serious diseases.

I’m here to say, along with many self-development guru’s, that whatever challenge you have in front of you is actually a gift. Yes, you read right… a gift. Our unpleasant life experiences are opportunities for us to redefine who we are and a chance to make different choices in order to live a more enjoyable life.

Everyday we have a choice and sometimes all we need to get us going in the right direction is a dose of self-awareness.

Remember far too well one of my first “self-awareness” instances. It was the time in my life where I discovered that I was a “people pleaser”. I was in class listening to my teacher Mr. Maratas as he talked about different personality types and the expression “people pleaser” popped up. I had never heard that term before, but for some reason my teacher captivated my attention. He proceeded with his explanation of this personality type and OMG, I saw myself playing that role, BIG TIME! A people pleaser is someone that believes that in order to be liked, loved and accepted, they need to be the person others want them to be. Doing and saying what others want instead of doing and saying what is best for them. For me, being a people pleaser lead me to live a very unhealthy lifestyle and forgetting all together that I was a person who had desires, opinions, boundaries, values and dreams.

That dose of self-awareness shook me to the core! Day after day this awareness kicked in, I was noticing how much I complied, how I suppressed my true nature, how I kept my opinion to myself to avoid conflict. Then I started noticing when and with who I would fall in the people pleaser trap. To my dismay, there were just too many instances of me pleasing to not do something about it. It wasn’t easy to change my pattern of pleasing, but I knew at my core this role I was playing was not healthy. I had a quiet depression going on, I had bouts of impatience and my self-esteem was close to rock bottom. However, with my self-awareness came the desire to speak my mind. Then the courage to speak with people I felt safe with and then eventually with most of the people. It was a tough hurdle to overcome, but believing that I had the right to speak and do what’s best for me was the best gift I could have given to myself and to others. Because with my new non-people pleaser experiences I grew more confident, developed greater self-respect and then more genuine relationships and the benefits of just that, go on and on and on.

I later discovered that my people pleaser pattern was something I’ve been carrying since childhood. As a child, I learned that if I did what others wanted, that‘s when I would receive love, praise and feel good about who I was. Now I could go in greater details to paint my whole childhood circumstances and you could all see it made a lot of sense, but I’ll reserve that for my book. The point is, childhood belief systems affect us as adults and sometimes we don’t even see it. To get out of that trap, you are best to increase your self–awareness.

- /thegirlwithherpen/

June 06, 2021

[ladecena]

𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥🧭

Finally! The day has arrived for our family’s day at the beach. My parents have been planning our family excursion to the beach ever since the summer holidays had started. Of course, I’ve been very elated when my parents had made the announcement that we were going to the beach this Sunday coming. So last Friday evening, my dad took some time off early from work so that he, mom and I can go to the grocery store and purchase everything that we are going to need on our trip to the beach on Sunday.

There were so many things that we had bought for our family day at the beach, like snacks and refreshments and meats and rice and so the list goes on. Now that the day had finally arrived, I was ready to spend a wonderful time with my parents at the beach. On Sunday morning, my mom and dad had been busy cooking the food in the kitchen while I helped packed the refreshments in a large cooler box with ice.

The food was incredibly delicious. Baked chicken, lasagna, egg salad and shepherd pie, it was truly an amazing meal that I’ve ever eaten so far. Then I drank some iced cold lemon lime juice to wash it down. Well, I have to say that I was already enjoying our family day at the beach so far. After that incredible lunch, my parents and I relaxed like for half an hour until it was officially time to have some real fun. We all ran into the sea water and dived in. The water was cool and wonderful that we stayed there until it was time for us to pack up and go home.

It was five o’clock that evening when we all had packed up our belongings and put them back into our family caravan. As I sat in the back seat of the caravan, I looked out of the window to have a quick look at the clear blue sea water one more before we drove off. I can see that sun was already setting above the horizon of the ocean. But I know that some other again, we shall return to enjoy another family day at the beach.

The place where I feel most comfortable is a place where I am calm. It is the place to go to get away from all my troubles. The one place where I could sit forever, and never get tired of just staring into the blue water as the sun rays reflect off the water giving it a beautiful glow. A place where nothing matters but what is in that little moment. Walking on the beach with a slight breeze, cold sand, and the sound of the waves crashing creating a noise that nothing can replace. Beaches are the perfect happy place.

But one day a monster came up and everything turns into a nightmare. Year 2020 we got locked down because of the pandemic . We can’t go somewhere even in a beach. And i now i really missed going to my happy place where i forget those problems that might getting me from anxiety. But i hope someday i can still look at the beauty of the beach.

- cici🌊

June 06, 2021

[ladecena]

𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍📚

Leaves started to fall, everything turned brown and drab─ it was the end of summer and autumn had finally come. Feeling exhausted and drowsy, she was one step closer to her house. She sighed deeply as she switched the door knob "Tadaima!" (I’m home) Her expression used to be like this everytime she came home. She immediately wore off her shoes and ran towards her room. As she entered her quiet space, she was filled by excitement thinking about finishing a story of the anime she was watching. She placed her notebook and a pen on the table, but considering that she was exhausted, she felt sleepy, so the next thing she did was to let her back hit the bed. Looking straight at the ceiling, she smiled as if she wasn’t tired at all. She finally felt cozy after the long day ended. Slowly and gently, she closed her eyes at last.

"Aya… aya!" The continuous call of my name made me come to my senses. This voice, I knew in my heart that I was familiar with it. I slowly opened my right eye and it came to see the window at my side. I got up right away and closed it. The noise of the thousands of droplets from the sky felt a bit strange. My body shakes as the coldness infiltrates the whole room. It was absolutely dark. I turned on the light but it wasn’t open. Wondering about it, I headed outside. My body trembled and my heart started to pound as I found myself in a horrible place. All of the houses seemed to be old and were all burning. The smell of the burned woods invades the whole place. I walked around to sneak peek but suddenly… "Watch out!" a voice came from my back made me shock. My eyes were shut and as they opened I found a man who was a bit taller than me, wearing a black fitted suit and mask. He came to save me from the debris that dropped from an old house.

As we arrived at the cave-like he called as a hideout, he then lit a lamp that was on his side. "What are you doing in this place?" I wasn’t able to answer since I’m still in the state of being curious. I kept my mouth shut and just observed because everything seemed so unreal. "What’s your name?" I directly looked into his eyes and he apologized. "We’re still in the rage of war, it is safe for you to stay here" he was dead serious talking about it. My eyes widened, "War? You say.. " He just nodded as a response. He stood up and was about to leave. "Don’t leave this place no matter what!" he added. From then, I got a feeling that it seemed familiar, this place, this person and this scene. As I closed my eyes and rested my back on the cold and hard rock wall, I heard the sound of heavy breathing and the next thing I saw was his body bathing in his own blood. I wasn't sure about what it was but I ran up quickly to him because I knew he would be dead for sure.

My eyes were filling with tears, I wanted to call his name but I couldn’t even remember. "Sayonara!" (Goodbye) A parting word from him makes it even more overwhelming. I extended my hand, wanting to hold him but I was blinded by the light coming from the outside, seeing only his shadows. The next thing I knew was I was able to go back to reality. I was able to cease sleeping, looking directly at my hand. "It was a dream.. I see" It felt so uneasy, I wasn’t able to hold back my tears. "Sayonara" I respond. I stood and found the notebook on the table and finally I was able to continue. I wiped off my tears and smiled as I read the title of the anime I am writing. As I finished, I closed and left it on my table.

"Rewrite" is the word that was written on the cover page. I decided to come up with this title because it allows me to write the story at my own will and at my own desire. I was able to connect to the world of fiction and rewrite stories, making it my own.

- _ayashiii 🌸

June 05, 2021

[ladecena]

𝐉𝐎𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐌𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓✨

Summer, 2018

It gradually dries out from the fresh green leaves and continues to fall from the tree. You can see the sun blistering you in the warm weather, but it will be followed by the soothing effect of nature blasting through into the air.

Evangeline lives peacefully in a desolate location that resembles the countryside. There are neighbors whose smiles touch the clouds and who have hearts of gold, along with feet high and filled with fruit trees that seem to explode blessed with an abundance of fruit.

Evangeline cherishes music and dance, taking multiple portraits, and making new friends. She has a brown skin tone that glows when the sun comes up, and her height and weight are suitable for her age. Evangeline seemed to have dark brown hair and it was long and shimmering the same as glass. Her face was round, with brown eyes which sparkled, a wonderful smile, and a maniacal cackle.

First Semester, August 2018

During my first semester in college, I was welcomed by individuals that had beautiful eyes and smiles on their faces, as if they were among their friends and classmates. Because of my passion for dancing, I searched for an organization to join straight away, and depending on my skills and abilities, I joined the university's Hip-hop Dance Organization. I've always enjoyed performing and have carried it with me since I was a child. My admiration for that kind of interest became much deeper when I started in that dance organization. It adds style to my life, relaxes the muscles, and solves my problems. It was extremely beneficial in terms of relaxing my mind when it comes to academics.

The rain dropped sharply on Day 1 of the training, as time passed slowly as everyone waited for the rain to end. It took over an hour again to wait to end. We started with a warm-up before proceeding on to drills which would further strengthen the group's organization and inform the members that not everything they seek can be accomplished in very little time possible; they should work it out and strive hard to achieve their goals. As time passed, the team members' love for each other kept growing. There are the pranks, the simultaneous laughs, and all kinds of silliness that motivate every hardship which everyone endures throughout training.

Biggest Dance Competition, March 2019

We've gone too far, but the team's goal still seems to be intact. Compassion is the cornerstone for showcasing the actual strength of university students.

Performers from everywhere in the Philippines plaster smiles on their lips, as if their worries weren’t obvious. Everybody is eager for a space to rehearse, but even if they are competing on stage, they remain united. It's a wonderful feeling to know that the time and effort you put in will be rewarded threefold and provide you with far too much satisfaction. It has been said that when you work extremely hard enough, you might begin receiving everything you deserve. And that was it; I picture myself as a great performer who can really present or share my knowledge as I strive towards my goal over the years.

Batangas Competition, April 2019

Fresh fruits, a cool breeze, and warm-hearted citizens. The scent of the seaside is everywhere, as though you've been invited to surf. The crowd starts screaming, and it is obvious that everybody is having a great time. We questioned ourselves how we handled it up until now. Another day has come, brought with it friends and enthusiasm that make my life so wonderful.

Pandemic, April 2020

Years that brought new words and meaningful relationships. Even though this is a difficult year, you can still fulfill your goals. Many things have changed since the pandemic, yet at the same time that we believe that the world is harming us, it is also restoring us. Many challenges have been overcome by ourselves, confirming that we are competent at doing that and that we can do so much more.

Dancing brings color and energy to my reality, which was previously lacking in vitality. Now I realized a certain kind of happiness and fulfillment I wished to experience until I am older. Every action represents our opportunity to show that we are much more than great, since we have something more to prove.

You will indeed discover your personal joy. Real happiness transforms you into some kind of good person. You're excellent at your own position, and you'll take up a lot of expertise all the way. What matters is that you are satisfied with your task and therefore are not creating some mistakes. Love and appreciate everything that crosses your path, whether it's positive or negative, because it will be here that you'll discover more about yourself. Take pleasure in every moment and battle for your happiness.

- peachy k. 🍑

June 05, 2021