At Victoria Memorial in London

Today marks the day I left the country for the first time. I could still recall how sad, fearful and exciting it was. My flight to London was scheduled at midnight of July 27, 2007. Before leaving for the airport at 7pm of July 26, I was at home relishing every moment spent with my family and cats and watched Wentworth Miller kick ass in Prison Break 2. Every hour that passed seemed to bring me nearer to the guillotine.

Last year’s trip was a life-changing experience I can never ever forget. It was the day I said goodbye to my independent self and embraced a totally different lifestyle I have never really imagined. Somehow, I did regret the decision of leaving my career, my life and my old self behind in exchange for the promise of a good life. For a time, my stay in London did seem to me a nightmare of sorts. And coming back to Manila after six months simply confirmed that the nightmare was far from over. I was out of job, out of funds and out of my mind.

But none of those frightful things still holds true today. I chose to look beyond my ugly circumstances and trust God to open a window for me despite many closed doors. It was faith that enabled me to sail through the tempest and see the purpose through thick clouds and torrential rains.