Reflecting on my life in the Philippines brings a mix of emotions. I’m guilty to admit that I messed up a lot during my youth. Immaturity, poor guidance, and an unhealthy environment led me down a path fraught with mistakes. Society’s pressures became a source of trauma, pushing me to make decisions that later resulted in negativity and regret. However, these experiences also offered invaluable lessons for my future.
Summarizing my time in the Philippines, it was a period filled with trouble and trauma. Yet, amidst the despair, I found a beacon of hope—a lovely person who became my light during the darkest times (more about this in a future blog). This person taught me the real power of sincere prayers and the importance of seeking absolution for my past mistakes. That person’s influence saved me from further self-destruction and set me on a path toward healing and growth.
“God doesn’t give you the people you want, he gives you the people you need.”
This saying rings true in my life. When you start making positive changes, you’ll notice that good things and people start gravitating toward you. This was certainly true for me. During my darkest days, when everything seemed to be falling apart and those I counted on had betrayed me, I met someone extraordinary.
You might have guessed it—this person is now my husband. He came into my life when I was at my lowest, determined to help me despite the overwhelming odds. He never gave up on me, using every ounce of his strength to pull me out of the place I considered my personal hell.
The journey was long and fraught with challenges, but his unwavering determination eventually led to my rescue. Our story is a testament to the power of persistence and the impact one person can have on another’s life. His kindness and resilience became the foundation on which I rebuilt my shattered self.
Our time together wasn’t always easy. There were moments when the weight of my past threatened to pull us both down. But he remained steadfast.
From this experience, I learned the importance of forgiving oneself and seeking redemption. It’s easy to get lost in a cycle of self-blame and regret, but true healing begins with self-compassion.
As I look back on my life in the Philippines, I no longer see only the mistakes and the pain. I also see the lessons learned and the strength gained. I see the journey of a person who, despite the odds, found a way to heal and grow.