An open letter for my soul sisters

         It's been 2 months since we last saw each other and those were the days where our only communication is nothing but virtual - well, for some. Such talks are initiated by the words "How are you?" and even "I miss you". We've been holding it long enough and maybe longer until the day we'll see each other. But until then, I wish you'll stay stronger than ever.

         Tonight, we've met. My heart could burst out with happiness. The ease and relief I feel whenever I got to talk to all of you. And so, I'm writing you this after I've come into a realization that these feelings might be the same for you. Wherever we are - in our house, apartment or dormitory, in Mindanao, Aklan, Iloilo or Bacolod City - each one of us, less than we know, carries our own burden. Each day has been a struggle. Each extended quarantine becomes a disappointment. Each tomorrow becomes a question of what next. Each yesterday becomes the longings for the past. And each second is wishes of things to go back to normal. But for this very moment, I only wish for you to be well.

        I wish you strength that would carry your feet for you to stand in the storm. I wish you courage that would armor your heart from those drowning tears. I wish you light that lets you explore during gloomy nights. I wish you hope that pushes you to go on in helpless times. I wish you self-love that would remind you you're worth it and you're beautiful. I wish you happiness because that is what you truly deserve.

       Wherever you maybe, whenever you feel the uncertainty, whatever bothers you, always remember that you're a woman of pride. You're indestructible like the wind. You're pure as the angel. You're bright like the sunflower. You're tough as the warrior. You're powerful as the alpha. You're independent as the woman you are. These are only glimpse of what you can do. What more? Soon enough, the things that once frightened you will soon be invisible for you. So hold on and be brave. You're a lady. You're the lady. Not just any lady.