Not Yet Over, 2023

2023 has been a year of incredible adventures and unforgettable moments. I can hardly believe all that I have experienced in such a short time. From traveling internationally to discovering new passions in exploring places in the Philippines, this year has been a whirlwind of excitement and growth.

One of the most thrilling things I did this year was learning the art of freediving. The idea of exploring the underwater world without any equipment fascinated me, and I decided to give it a try. Through dedicated training and perseverance, I gradually honed my skills and ventured into the depths of the ocean. The feeling of diving freely and gracefully, surrounded by the vibrant marine life, was truly extraordinary.

In addition to my aquatic adventures, I achieved a major milestone in my academic journey. After years of hard work and dedication, I successfully published my dissertation. Seeing my name online as a researcher was a dream come true. I received emails from different publications. But my priority is not to write now, maybe after two years. The late nights writing and editing, and the unwavering commitment to my field of study. I felt a deep sense of pride and fulfillment as I held my dissertation in my hands.

One of the most significant events of the year was attending my Ph.D. graduation in Psychology. The moment I walked across the stage, clad in a cap and gown, I felt an overwhelming surge of accomplishment. All the sacrifices and challenges I faced during my studies suddenly seemed worth it. It was a celebration of my hard work and dedication, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my professional life.

Throughout my adventures, I had the pleasure of meeting incredible individuals from diverse backgrounds. These chance encounters blossomed into beautiful friendships. The bond I formed with these new friends was special and heartfelt. We shared laughter, stories, and experiences that will forever be etched in my memory. The kindness and support I received from them made me feel loved and treasured.

As the year is not yet over, I am filled with anticipation for the future. I am grateful to have companions on this journey who genuinely care about our friendship. Together, we will continue to explore new horizons, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories. The thought of embarking on future adventures with these dear friends brings me immense joy and gratitude.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of learning and studying even more. There are so many things I still want to understand and explore. The world is a vast treasure trove of knowledge, waiting to be discovered. I am committed to pushing myself further, diving deeper into my passions, and expanding my horizons. The thirst for knowledge burns within me, and I cannot wait to quench it through continued learning and growth.

As I reflect on all the incredible moments of this year, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. 2023 has been a year of personal growth, accomplishment, and cherished connections. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had and the people who have joined me on this journey. With every passing day, I am more inspired to continue exploring, learning, and embracing all that life has to offer.