If I were to tell anything to my younger self, I wouldn't tell him anything. He is perfect the way he is. None of the achievements, hardships, or even failures will compare to where I am right now. I recognized that throughout my life, I needed to regulate myself constantly whenever I felt heated and wanted to spiral. Whether that'd be taking walks, expressing myself through photography or listening to music, I felt these remedies were something I could always rely on. I couldn't say the same for my past relationships and other people though. I knew far late this year in December, that I had to be the strongest advocate for myself. No amount of help from others can change me as much as I can myself. My strides towards independence have grown significantly compared to 2024. I actually felt I TOOK some agency in my life, instead of coasting and living in my comfort zone all the time.

Reigniting That Flame

A flame that is twice as bright, burns twice as fast.

A small bit of light never hurt anyone.

Sometimes, it can be really difficult to gather the strength to light up the strength in your heart. When really, all it really took was to mentally believe in oneself, through the things you do and what you stand for. Sometimes the strongest flames come from doing the things you love, to the point where you even forget that you had a self-grudge to begin with. Being proud of who you are should not be confused with thinking you are better than everyone else. There’s a thin line between arrogance and confidence that tends to easily be overlooked. Some people love to extinguish your flames, just because they can. They want to see you fail. They think by quelling your flames, that theirs grows brighter. Such is not the case in this modern world. Growth and collaboration starts with a strong sense of independence.

Independence does not come overnight

Take this sculpture as your destination. To get there, you have to independently visit it.

Appreciating where you are now can go a long way towards paving your future.

It took me many, many years to realize that even after moving in my house in mid-2021, fast forward to 2025, that I still have a LOT to learn. I have to learn how to look after myself, make ends meet, and upkeep my connections from time to time. Though, you don't have to face things alone all the time. There will be times where no one can help you, but if at any point you get stuck in your own personal journey being unable to answer questions for yourself, it is NEVER a bad thing to ask for help from the right people.

“

It ain't a bad thing to ask for help, don't make you less of a person.

“

~Cruisin - Huey Mack