Chasing Dreams and Embracing the Journey: A Quick City Adventure

Growing up, I was always full of big dreams. I remember, as early as Grade 2, telling my mom that I wanted to move to America, buy land and a house, and eventually bring her and my Tatay there too. My mom used to smile and wonder how I, at such a young age, had such ambitious dreams. Little did she know, those early dreams were only the beginning of a journey that would shape my life in ways I could never have imagined.

As I moved into high school, my dreams shifted but remained just as big. I daydreamed of working in a bustling corporate office, surrounded by towering buildings and the fast pace of the city. I imagined myself climbing the corporate ladder, but I quickly realized that the path I envisioned wouldn’t be as easy as I thought. Coming from a simple family, raised by a hardworking single mom who did everything she could to provide for us, challenges were inevitable. But, despite the struggles, I held onto my ambition.

Life, as it often does, didn’t go exactly as planned. Yet, looking back, I see that God had a bigger plan for me—a plan that has led me to where I am today. While I may not have moved to America or worked in the corporate world as I once dreamed, I’m grateful for how far I’ve come. I’m living a life now that’s better than I ever could’ve imagined back then.

During my recent trip to NCR, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much my dreams have evolved. The moment I stepped into the city, I was in awe of the big buildings and the sea of people hustling through the streets. I couldn’t help but smile, thinking, “This was my dream once.”

But as I grew older, I realized that life is about more than just chasing the dreams you had as a child. I don’t need to work in one of those massive corporate offices anymore. I no longer feel the desire to be a part of the hustle and bustle that I once envisioned for myself. I’m happy now, just visiting Manila and enjoying the view from below. Watching the people rushing around, admiring the towering buildings, I’m content. My dream of working in a busy corporate world has transformed into a quiet admiration of those who are living it, while I get to experience it from a different perspective—one that’s peaceful and fulfilling.

The city may be busy, but I’ve learned to be happy in my own space, appreciating the journey I’ve had and the lessons it’s brought me. There’s something beautiful about realizing that dreams evolve, and sometimes, the path we thought we wanted leads us to something even greater than we imagined.

So, as I stand in awe of City's skyline, I remind myself that it’s not about where I thought I’d be, but where I am now. And for that, I’m truly thankful.