Yesterday was Kathryn Bernardo’s birthday. Today is mine.

11am. I am lying on my bed (still) , wide awake but with no intent to get up anytime soon. This community lockdown indeed is taking its toll on me. It’s my birthday and I can’t go out to celebrate. Nor people can come and be with me today. HAPPY? BIRTHDAY, HUH, CORONA.

My mom is cooking downstairs. I assume its for me. I smell onions being sautéed and I heard there’s ice cream on the fridge. My sister is in the supermarket now, too. I knew since she just sent a message telling that the line to the store is already long. Hmm.. I wonder what she’ll get.

My niece and nephew are watching the Tagalized SpongeBob SquarePants in the living room. And now, I wanted to go down and play with them.

I can’t seem to find the words to connect these thoughts that I have but sincerely, I was just sad last night and this morning, I realized it is not that bad.

And thinking about it, it is not so 28 year oldish to be upset with having to celebrate your birthday at home.

Home. The only place which toilet seat I trust. The place where my most beloved reside. And this time, we are together the whole day. I wish there’d be cake but I’m 28 now so I’ll try my best to go along without it.

Besides, most families in our country now struggle to have anything on their plates. Who am I to ask for more? How selfish of me to question what I have while most people can only wish for a shelter in these trying times.

If there is anything I can wish now, it’s for the fast recovery of COVID-19 patients and COVID-19’s cure to be discovered as well.

For the frontliners to have more strength in battling this invicible enemy. For the elderly to feel secure and cared for. For the families in the streets to meet their comfort. I wish for the whole world to live a normal life again.

Every new day is a new beginning for everyone. Just as the sun rises after every night, hope soars with its every ray.

Yesterday I was sad. Today, I am hopeful.