Looking back with a grateful heart, 2025 was gentle with me—least eventful yet full of kindness and unhurried moments which I truly appreciate considering how fast-paced our lives have become. We get consumed by short form media as if we’re always running out of time. We now prefer convenience and condensed versions of everything, and somehow we’ve lost the feeling of being immersed, of staying in one place for a while.

I learned that this year: to step back, reel in, and sometimes just stay still. Because sometimes we just need to settle our nerves and see things—like really see things—slowly and carefully.

I am so appreciative of this year. I entered it full of anxiety. The year prior was mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing, which is why, when I was reminiscing about this year, I feel absolutely blessed and grateful that I can take things just as they are, with no reason to overreact to everything. Not that I’ve mastered the art of slowing down, but I’m trying. I’ve always been in “I want to know for sure” mode, but this time I chose to pause and take my time; an old lesson I found myself relearning this year.

Was that a long intro? Well, it’s time to be thankful and feel blessed as I think about the beautiful and wonderful things that happened this year.

The year in review

• I turned 39. Well, since my birthday is at the tail end of the year, I spent most of 2025 as 38 and am now officially 39—the last year of my 30s. It makes me nostalgic, a bit afraid, but also somewhat proud about how much I’ve grown in this decade. I’m a totally different person from my young adult 20s, even though two years (or more?) were spent in the pandemic. But hey, I’m happy to be getting older! It’s a privilege I don’t take lightly.
• A clean gut! One of the most stressful things I brooded over last year was my gastrointestinal issue, which, as someone with health anxiety, sent me into wild mental overdrive. To start the year with a clean bill of health really removed a huge burden off my shoulders (or should I say guts?). I’m so happy and was praying intently about it. God really shows miracles, and I’m so grateful and blessed.
• First time in Mainland China. It was a last-minute decision, but it turned out to be a great one. I truly enjoyed our time in Shanghai. My mom was able to join too, though I don’t think she’s fit enough for long-distance travel now due to her age. Still, we had a great time over there. It is definitely a place I want to visit again.
• Is there any hope for our country? Another disappointing year, as usual. It’s devastating to watch genuine public service all but disappear. Corruption thrives, and billions of taxpayers’ money are lost to greed. There just won’t be enough progress for us when 99.9% of public officials are evil people who only care about themselves. I am losing hope for this country, for the voting populace, and most specially those who cling to power just to enrich themselves. If the midterm election had anything to say about it, it’s that.
• Prayer for my sister. She is the best eldest sibling I could ever wish for, but hearing their situation makes it hard not to feel heavy. Even though we are countries apart I always think of her and her family. I pray for them always. God loves us and wants the best for us.

Plans for 2026

Usually this is the part where I list what I want for next year. But I’m a simple girl. I only pray for good health, safety and security, and financial blessings. Still, maybe it’s nice to have a few things to look forward to as 2026 unfolds.

• Health is wealth. Now that I’m turning 40, the age really does sound serious. I do get checked once a year, but at this age, we’re more prone to health vulnerabilities. I have to stay fit and be mindful of my health. I have to do my part.
• Try not to react instantly. I’m easily affected by bad news. I tend to react negatively and rush decisions because uncertainty makes me wobbly and nervous. But I want to continue this habit of slowing down—assess first, then move forward with all the information I have. I should always be mindful and not too abrupt with things. Life is already too fast, and I don’t want to join that pace as much as I can.
• Trash journaling. Well, the “diarist era” didn’t pan out. I got lazy, my hands hurt. Maybe trash or scrap journaling works better for me? Who knows how long this spark will last. But don’t worry I’ve been journaling digitally for two consecutive years now, which is a huge feat for me. I love going back and reading my most intimate thoughts.
• Balance finances well. We’re planning to slow down on travel, so maybe no travel for 2026 (or maybe I’ll do solo traveling? who knows?) But I paid off so many loans this year. I want to enter my 40s with as little financial burden as possible.
• A new gadget? I bought a new phone, but I want to invest in another gadget but not now. I also want to revamp my workspace, maybe get a standing table since it will help tremendously with my aching back. But of course, money doesn’t grow on trees, so I have to save. This made me think about opening my design services, then again, where do I start when I’ve lost all my connections? Something I really have to think about carefully.

And that’s it. My prayers remain the same: good health, stable finances, and overall safety. 🌿 On top of that, a better country for us. We can only do so much with our own resources, so it’s frustrating when the government fails us. Still, I’m praying for a kinder and serene 2026. The world is already too chaotic—we don’t need to add more to it. Let’s spread kindness!

Thank You God for 2025. Praying for a gentler 2026 too. Amen. 🙏