I stare blankly at the view from the upper level of the mall, feeling a mix of exhaustion and contentment.
We have just finished lunch, and the lively chatter of my classmates spreads like wildfire, filling the air with excitement.
It is our educational tour, and while I enjoy exploring new places, I can’t hide how sleepy I am.
I let my gaze wander, taking in the scene before me.
My classmates are all smiles, their faces glowing with enthusiasm as they talk and laugh together.
Even our teachers seem to be enjoying themselves, their eyes reflecting the same joy.
One of my classmates catches my eye, and I return a small smile, though I know my exhaustion is showing.
They are still savoring the delicious meal we just had—for many of us, including me, it is our first time tasting something like that.
Lowering my gaze, I unlock my phone and scroll absentmindedly, but my thoughts quickly drift to my mother.
Excitement bubbles inside me at the idea of sharing every detail of our trip with her.
I can’t wait to tell her about our first day—from the exhilarating boat ride that brought us here, to the fascinating places we have explored, and of course, the mouthwatering dishes that are completely new to me.
A small, wistful smile forms on my lips as I imagine our conversation.
I already know how it will go.
The moment I settle in at the hotel tonight, I will call her and ramble endlessly about everything—the sights, the food, the little moments that made me laugh.
There’s no way I’m getting any sleep tonight, I think, amused.
I can already hear her chuckling at my excitement, her voice filled with warmth as she listens to my stories.
A longing tugs at my heart.
How I wish Mama and my family could experience something like this too.
I picture them sitting at a table like we did earlier, their eyes lighting up at the sight of elegantly plated dishes, tasting flavors they have never had before.
The thought makes my heart swell with both hope and a silent prayer. Maybe someday, in God's perfect time.
Just as I am lost in my thoughts, our tour guide’s voice rings out, snapping me back to reality.
He announces our next destination, his tone filled with the same enthusiasm that has made this trip even more exciting.
Our tour guide, Kuya Renz, has a way of making everything fun and engaging, and for that, I am truly grateful.
As the group nods in acknowledgment, exchanging smiles of excitement, I take a deep breath and whisper a silent prayer.
God, please guide and protect us throughout this journey.
With that, I stand up, ready to embark on another adventure.
I have a feeling these next three days will be unforgettable.
YOU ARE READING
POV
Kurgu OlmayanLife often presents itself as a series of hurdles, each one taller than the last. These hurdles, though daunting, are not meant to break us but to shape us into who we are meant to be. It is through our darkest nights that we gain the strength to fa...
