I will never forget this quote because it showed me that blessings come in many form, and one of them is YOU.

“An arrow can only be shot by pulling it backwards. When life is dragging you back with difficulties, it means it’s going to launch you into something great. So just focus & keep aiming.”

Bae, you were only 16 at the time. I was feeling hopeless & helpless, and you gave me strength by sharing with me this quote. You were already full of wisdom them, and I took courage in your strength.

But look at us now, just 2 short years after. So many wonderful things have happened, so many places we have seen, so many beautiful experiences we have shared as a family. We’ve certainly come a long way baby -you & I and the rest of the GOppets. <3 You were right then, and you are right now. God is good, all the time. Even when, at moments, we can’t see His goodness. Even when, at times, we can’t feel His love. And even when, with questions in our hearts, we can’t understand His will, God is good, all the time.

You were my rock during those days and months when I felt the world was crumbling. In good times & in bad, you were always there for me, a shoulder to cry on, a willing ear always ready to listen. I was the adult & you were the child, and yet, you gave me comfort whenever I needed it. God channeled His light through you to give me my answers.

And you have such a big heart too, not just to your family but to anyone fortunate enough to cross your path. I remember you told me not so long ago that you saw an old lady outside a restaurant & you took pity so you bought her food. And when I praised you you said to me “Mommy, I didn’t tell you the story so you can praise me.” You told me because you felt so bad that she had nothing, and you just wanted to share your feelings with me. You were never one to boast of your kindness & goodness, but I am blessed to witness how giving & loving you are. What did I ever do to deserve such a daughter?

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No riches or material possession can ever compare to the happiness I get from being your mother. Today, on your birthday, I just want you to know how very proud I am of you, how so very blessed I feel that God has entrusted the care of an angel like you to me in my lifetime, and that you are MORE THAN ENOUGH FOR ME.

Many times, you have shed tears because you feel that you can do more in school, be better. But Bae, you have to understand that those are just life trimmings. You can be the most accomplished person in the world but if you have the blackest of hearts, what good would that do? Yes, you have certain weaknesses, but your strengths overshadow them. Never feel that you are not good enough, because to me, you are already the best so please don’t put so much pressure on yourself.

I love you so so SO much my darling Bae. I can’t even think of a life without you in it. You have given me so much love & happiness that every time I think of you, I can’t help but give a prayer of thanks for the opportunity of being your mother. No other mother, I believe, is as fortunate as me to have you, Ate & Kuya. You, together with Dad, are my greatest blessings.

Happy 18th birthday my sweetheart, this is just the start of your many adventures. I am behind you every step of the way. Wherever you may be, wherever you may go, just close your eyes & you will always feel me in your heart. Go with God, and you can never go wrong. :-*

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Always remember Bae, in life, the struggles make you stronger. The changes make you wiser. Happiness has its own way of taking its sweet time. Life ain’t always beautiful, but it’s certainly a beautiful ride.