OUR PODCAST SUCCESS AND A SWEET REVIEW
I just wanted to share something with you guys—our very first episode of the CTRL + A Podcast was a success!
I’m still deciding whether to upload an edited version of the livestream. Maybe I should? Livestreaming just hits differently. It feels like hanging out with friends, getting to chat in real time and hear what’s on your mind. Even if it’s just through a screen, it really feels like connection.
To everyone who came, whether you’re a familiar face or someone new… thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I also want to share one of the most touching messages I’ve ever received. I don’t take reviews lightly, but this one? It went straight to my soul. I cried. I’ve been dreaming of doing this for so long, and now that people are starting to see my work and connect with it… hearing these kinds of words reminds me how beautiful the world still can be. She was right about something, too: I’m a Filipina writer. I’ve always wanted to make a difference. Especially in my home, the Philippines.
Not many people know this, but there were times I seriously thought about leaving. The struggles here… traffic, crab mentality, and so much more, made me want to walk away. I didn’t know how to fix any of it, but I tried my best to live honestly and not add to the problem.
Then 2020 happened. A tragedy changed everything. I wanted to give up. I felt failed by the justice system. People turned against me without knowing the full story. I lost hope.
But whether it was God, or just a tiny flame of hope left inside me, I stayed. I stayed because I have a child to raise. And like any mother, I want her to grow up surrounded by love and strength. I can’t give up on this country. Because despite everything, this place also gave me wonderful people. This is my home. My family lives here, my friends are here. Most of you guys are here. And art? Art has saved us before. Rizal’s words once awakened a nation. I want to believe that can still happen.
I know I can’t do this alone, but I also know I’m never truly alone. God has always answered my prayers, surrounded me with love, and reminded me that my efforts mean something.
So thank you. Yes, you… reading this right now. Whether we’ve met on screen or in person, I’m truly grateful our paths crossed. I hope we get to share more beautiful, fun, and meaningful moments together. ❤️