Birthday call

It was my birthday a few days ago, then important people to me started texting me birthday wishes throughout the day. I’m grateful for having them in my life. Then during the afternoon, a receive a phone call. My mind goes, “a phone call? That’s interesting and unexpected.” I looked at the caller’s name and … Continue reading Birthday call →

What you see is not what you get

The world is full of facades that might surprise you if you have a closer look at it—anything from buildings, software applications, and books to people, relationships, and families. There is a cover for almost everything when looked at from the outside. I think a bit of skepticism is normal and sane to avoid going … Continue reading What you see is not what you get →

A good friend

Sometimes that’s all we need: one or two good friends in life. Somebody we can share stories, thoughts, and feelings with no fear of being judged. A person we can be light-hearted, silly, and goofy with; tell serious-non-serious jokes; and at the same time, someone we can bounce ideas and perspective with. A good friend … Continue reading A good friend →

Improving myself

Every day is a constant reminder to improve myself in every possible aspect. From being kinder and more empathetic to being more selfless and generous with my time, presence, and attention. I’m trying to be a friend to myself. I'm trying to be a better friend, partner, son, and brother. I’m also trying not to … Continue reading Improving myself →

The shortness of life

Wow. Yesterday was quite the unnecessary rage. And today I am reminded of how short life actually is. There have been more familiar faces that have passed away in the past year than I can ever remember – whether it be because of COVID-19 or age. This is a reminder to be kind, caring, generous, … Continue reading The shortness of life →

I became you

Somewhere, some time, and at some point, our paths crossed, and some part of me became part of who you were. This didn't happen by accident. We spent a considerate amount of time together, talking and laughing, sharing stories and jokes, and thinking and planning our futures. Clearly, it was difficult not to absorb some … Continue reading I became you →

Moving on…

I can hear the echo around the house while the music is playing. It’s quiet. It’s peaceful. It’s spacious. I am in the living room typing what’s coming out of my heart. I am here living on my own – no housemates, no roommates – after sharing a home with you during most of our … Continue reading Moving on… →

Choose wisely

There are some things you don't get to choose in life: Parents Siblings Relatives Place you're born But there are other things we do get to choose: How to live life What we put in our body What we watch and read The type of career or job we pursue Our emotions and/or reactions toward something … Continue reading Choose wisely →

Be your friend

We are often generous, kind, and caring with other people by spending time, empathizing, and even helping them find solutions to their problems, comforting them when things aren't working out as expected, or during harsh times such as breakups, getting laid-off from work, or simply failing at some basic life event. That's called being a … Continue reading Be your friend →

It’s a two-way thing

All relationships are two-sided. This means that there's always a giver and a receiver, but this doesn't mean that the giver should always be the giver or the receiver should always be the receiver. In an effort for them to work properly, both sides must put a similar amount of effort. This goes from communication, … Continue reading It’s a two-way thing →