Passion. Freedom. Are you happy with what you are right now?

Article by AB Aguirre Graphics by Nina Garcia

November 24, 2021

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𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍.

Have you ever finally found that ‘one thing’ you wanted-- love to do? That ‘one thing’ that makes you happy regardless of its hardships and struggles; That ‘one thing’ that you would give your 100% best and you’re happy while doing it. Focusing on it while disregarding the thoughts and opinions of others. Being content and happy at the same time while doing it-- those moments will always be priceless. There are times when you are truly living your life. Wanting and loving to do something, giving your best at it, accepting whatever struggles you may encounter and still be happy with it, and continuing to pursue it--- that is passion.

Your passion is the burning fire within yourself. Doing something with a genuine feeling of contentment, enjoying every bit of the moment, are the means to have that irreplaceable passion. Surely, you may fail at some time. You may encounter struggles that could possibly break or destroy you, but if you are brave enough to face them, then surely you will overcome them. Don’t be afraid of where your passion might lead you, chase it, embrace it. As the saying goes ‘fall down seven, stand up eight’ always remember that if you love something, strive for it and never lose hope.

𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐎𝐌.

Do you have the freedom to choose? Are you the one responsible for your choices? Or does anyone make the choice for you? Do you ever feel suffocated? Are you still holding on? Grasping on reality and life? \

Breathe. Not everyone has the freedom they deserve. The freedom to choose on their own. The freedom to take the path they wanted. Sadly, not everyone is blessed with that opportunity. Some people never got the chance to chase their freedom. Sometimes, there are circumstances that we’re all caged for one reason or another, but those reasons are surely deep enough for you to struggle for a while. There might be times that you want to give up, you’re losing your grip, you’re mourning for the freedom you seek. You’re craving freedom itself. Eleutheromania it is. But please, don’t lose hope. Always remember that we might struggle for now, but sooner or later, we can soar high and reach for our dreams and explore the never-ending mystique of reality. ‘Everything happens for a reason’ hold on to that. And if ever you’re lucky, lucky enough to have the freedom you deserve, the freedom to choose. Then hold onto it tightly. Make the best of it. Savor every moment you have. But please, please be rational and logical in every choice you’re going to make. Be aware of the limitations and caution in every choice you’re making.

𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐘 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐍𝐎𝐖?

Are you happy? Are you doing the things that you want? Are you doing it for yourself? Or are you doing it for the sake of others? Are you still prioritizing yourself? Your happiness? I know that most people nowadays are making some practical choices, some people are just following what they’ve been told, but again, let me ask you again those questions. Are you still happy? Are you still yourself? Do you still know who you truly are? Because at times like this are very crucial since this is the stage where we could possibly lose ourselves, wandering like a lost soul, yearning, searching for our identity, for who we truly are. Let this be a reminder that for once in a while, it’s ok to choose yourself and be happy with what you are doing. Your present is the key for your future, your past will serve as a lesson but will always be permanent and unable to change, that's why, be brave and hold on as you choose yourself for once in a while, hold on to the things you love, savor every moment, live your life and have no regrets. Losing yourself, losing your identity due to your environment, to those expectations and responsibilities, as a daughter, a son, or a friend, will leave a permanent scar on your soul. Prioritizing yourself was never a mistake. You live for who you are, not for those expectations. Do the things YOU want once in a while. Breakfree and soar high.

At times like this, society’s standard leaves a huge effect on our self-development nowadays. It could sometimes be positive but most of the time negative, since it stereotypes the character each one is having, disregarding what they truly want and who they truly are.

This article is a friendly reminder for everyone to ‘be brave’ in every choice and situation, in every aspect and struggles, in every position and lifetime, be brave enough to speak, and hold on to yourself. You don’t need to fit into society's standard just to be accepted, we are born individuals with genuity. Hold on to it, and never, don’t ever lose yourself along the way. Because at the end of the day, the only one who’s there for you is yourself so don't let the standard and expectations change and affect you! This is our youth, our road to adulthood!