Gratitude

* another free writing exercise *

Inspired by an entry of a fellow photo-enthusiast, this entry is dedicated to very special people in my heart. They might not have realized that they made a rather large dent in my life. But to them, I owe what I am today -- with all my flaws and achievements, my imperfections and my strengths.

To my nephrologist (whom I fondly call Mommy Doc)...
She is the gentle yet firm voice I hear every month, urging me to religiously take my meds and keep healthy. To her I owe how I feel today. She was my second mother, making sure that I stick to her medical advise, and yet I still feel her respect for me as a person. Salamat, Doc.

To my cousin...
I know that he is one of my biggest fan in terms of photography. I feel that even if he doesn't tell me. He gives me opportunities for photo shoots even in the most impossible situations. You inspire me to do better. Salamat, pinsan.

To a fellow photo enthusiast...
He reminded me of the true meaning of passion and commitment. That even if a task seems impossible to do, one's dedication can move mountains. He is not only a talented photographer, but is an excellent model for all inspiring photo-enthusiast. Isa kang tunay na litratista. Saludo ako sa iyo, kuya.

To a Malaysian blogger and publisher...
He is a visionary. And he not only pushed himself to realize his own dreams, but he made other people's dreams become a reality. Thank you for believing in what I can do. Thank you for recognizing my talent. Terimah kasih!

To a very dignified and accomplished man...
You made me see things in a different light. You inspired me in ways you would not have thought possible. You made me smile again, reminding me of my youth, and the endless possibilities life can offer. You made me warm, and fuzzy, and happy, and giddy and giggly. Thank you for giving me back this amazing feeling -- something that I thought I didn't have anymore. Thank you very much, sir.

To a great artist...
You are my idol. You make me want to become a true visual artist. Thank you for being nice and accommodating. Thank you for your very subtle ways of pushing me to learn. Salamat. Idol talaga kita.

To a strong woman, a TV series character...
Thank you for showing me what could happen in the future. Thank you for mouthing the words that have long been inside my head. Thank you for saying that, "The people who suffer most are the ones that do not know what they want."

2008 has been an amazing year. Not all five-hundred-twentyfive-thousand-six-hunded-minutes were perfect. But 2008 surely gave me five-hundred-twentyfive-thousand-six-hunded-minutes of moments I would cherish.

2008 gave a lot of challenges, but it threw in far more amazing gifts.

In 2008, I was forced to climb a mountain, but the pain was all worth it when I saw the view from the top.

In 2008, I got thrown in a river, but this was when I finally saw my reflection.

In 2008, I was in the middle of a storm, but I was protected by the "eye", and came through unscathed.

2008 was truly an amazing year. And I know that 2009 will be better, more special, really spectacular.

2009 is another chance for us to get things right.

Here's a toast to new beginnings!

Here's a toast to living life on superlative!

Here's to "lundagin mo, baby!" Yebah! :)


10:40 pm
Thursday
01 January 2008
Santiago City