Chapter 4: A Journey of Self-Love

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After everything that happened with Jomi, I finally made a decision I never thought I'd make: to take a break from relationships entirely. It had been six months since I began my healing journey, and I wasn't searching for anyone or waiting for someone to come along. I was completely single—not just in status, but in heart and mind.

One night, as I stood in front of the mirror, I looked at my reflection and told myself

"Sapat ako. Hindi ko kailangan ng iba para makumpleto ako."

It felt empowering to embrace that thought.

With this newfound freedom, I dove into my passions. I started traveling, exploring places I had only dreamed of seeing. I picked up new hobbies, learned to paint, and tried cooking different cuisines. I even reconnected with old friends who reminded me of the person I'd been before I got lost in relationships.

One afternoon, I found myself in a quaint little milktea shop, sipping strawberry frappe alone. I used to think that being alone would feel lonely, but now, I felt an unexpected peace. "

"Ang sarap pala ng ganito" I murmured to myself, a small smile tugging at my lips. 

"Kahit mag-isa, buo pa rin ang pakiramdam ko."

With every solo adventure, every meal I enjoyed alone, and every goal I set for myself, I felt my confidence grow. I was learning to enjoy my own company, embracing solitude not as something sad but as a source of strength.

One evening, standing on a mountaintop after a solo hike, I looked out at the breathtaking view and whispered, "Sa wakas, natutunan ko rin mahalin ang sarili ko." I felt more alive than I ever had with anyone else.

Through this journey of self-love, I discovered a happiness that wasn't dependent on anyone else. I no longer defined my worth by whether or not I had a partner. Instead, I found joy in simple, everyday moments—catching up with friends, reaching personal milestones, and, most importantly, loving myself.

"Kung darating man ang tamang tao, handa na ako. Pero habang wala pa magiging masaya muna ako para sa sarili ko" I said with a smile, finally content with the life I was building on my own terms.

I'm not closing my heart, even though I've been hurt three times. Each experience has taught me valuable lessons about love, trust, and resilience. 

Despite the pain, I believe that opening myself up to love is worth the risk, as it allows me to grow and connect deeply with others.

I know that not every relationship will last, but I refuse to let past heartbreaks define my future. Instead, I choose to embrace the possibility of love again, hopeful that one day, I'll find the kind of connection that lasts.

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