When hotdog was a luxury item for me
I grew up in Tondo, Manila. For those who do not know, this is one of the poorest places in the Philippines. It is also considered a slum. It is viewed by many as a place for criminals and drug addicts. And while all of those may have some truth in it, most of the people living there are trying to live their lives honestly and legally.
I stayed there until I was about 11 years old when my mom decided to end her marriage with my dad and marry a Dutch national.
I remember our daily struggles back then. Sometimes, there was no food to eat and we had to settle with just rice sprinkled with salt and topped off with cooking oil. This gives the rice a salty taste. It was just like fried rice that was not fried. Buying chips was also a pleasure we savor a small pack until the end of a TV show we watch.
Life was simpler then, yet those simple pleasures carried so much significance. The taste of makeshift fried rice and the crunch of those precious few chips brought a sense of comfort and contentment amidst the challenges. It’s amazing how the little things can become sources of joy and gratitude during difficult times.
When my mom gets her paycheck, we will go to the bakery and buy my favorite – hotdog. It was a luxury for me. Only twice a month that I get to eat a hotdog. I put it inside a pan de sal, have three pieces of that, and take it with me to school for lunch. Along with that, I have soda too.
The anticipation of enjoying this treat made the experience even more special. The savory hotdog nestled in soft, warm bread was a delightful combination of flavors that I savored on those special occasions. The fizzy soda added a refreshing touch to the meal, making it a complete and cherished indulgence for me. Each bite was a reminder of the love and care that went into every aspect of this simple yet deeply appreciated meal.
It was something I was looking forward to. It was something that took me away from our current situation and let me experience luxury in life. Yes. As I said before, it was a luxury back then for me.
Now, I can eat hotdogs anytime I want. My mom went through a lot of hardships swallowing her pride and fighting with her family just to give me and my sister a different future That worked well because I could tell myself that I am doing well in life right now.
You see, most of the time, it is not just because we did something that made us better. It is also because of other people who care for us a lot helped us, and enabled us, to become better and have a better life.
Recognizing the significant impact of others in our lives is crucially important. It is through their unwavering support, invaluable guidance, and uplifting encouragement that we are often able to navigate the tumultuous waters of life, persevere in times of adversity, and ultimately evolve and flourish as individuals. Their profound influence shapes our perspectives, enriches our experiences, and significantly contributes to the trajectory of our lives. Expressing gratitude towards those who have played a role in our personal growth and well-being is an incredibly powerful and meaningful acknowledgment of the deep interconnectedness and support inherent within the complex tapestry of human relationships.
The profound impact of others on our lives cannot be overstated. Their unwavering support, invaluable guidance, and uplifting encouragement empower us to navigate life’s challenges, overcome adversity, and grow as individuals. The influence of these individuals shapes our perspectives, enriches our experiences, and significantly impacts the trajectory of our lives. Expressing gratitude toward those who have contributed to our personal growth and well-being is a powerful acknowledgment of the interconnectedness that defines human relationships. It is through heartfelt appreciation and recognition that we honor the intricate tapestry of support and understanding woven into our lives by those who have touched us deeply.
The sentiment of gratitude is one that resonates deeply within us all, as we reflect on the individuals who have played a significant role in shaping our lives. It is important to express our thanks to those who have embraced us for who we are, stood by our side and supported us in pursuing our aspirations. Their presence has been instrumental in empowering us to strive for personal growth and development. Let us cherish the relationships that have enriched our journey and continue to inspire us to become the best version of ourselves.
Recognizing and cherishing the relationships that have enriched our path is a significant part of the gratitude we feel. These meaningful connections continue to inspire and propel us toward becoming the best versions of ourselves. As we reflect on the impact of these individuals, we are reminded of the significance of gratitude in our lives. It is both humbling and empowering to acknowledge the role they have played in shaping our experiences and influencing our personal and professional growth.
In expressing our appreciation, we not only convey gratitude for past actions, but also strengthen the foundation of these influential relationships. Our recognition of their contributions serves to deepen the bond of mutual respect and appreciation, fostering an environment of continued support and encouragement.
Let us hold dear the sentiment of gratitude, and with heartfelt sincerity, express our thanks to those who have made a positive difference in our lives. Through this act of acknowledging their impact, we honor their role in our journey and affirm the profound value of their presence in our lives.
Let us all be thankful to everyone who has been part of our lives, who has accepted who we are, and have been with us to ensure we get to do what we want to do and become better in life.
Hotdog is a luxury for me and will continue to be because it reminds me of where I was before, what my mom did for us, and where I am now, and I am grateful for all the blessings that I have been given.