Heartbreak happens. Heartbreak hurts. Eventually, heartbreak disappears. But I never actually experienced my own heartbreak. I had a boyfriend when I was sixteen. After high school graduation, we simply drifted apart without ever talking about breaking up. I left home for college, and from then on, we had no communication. “Why didn’t I experience heartbreak?”  I sometimes asked myself. Maybe it was because we never had the kind of relationships young couples often have today. There were no all-day digital updates, no private dates—my parents were very strict—and no grand romantic moments. We simply saw each other in school and exchanged small conversations. But God had other plans. Two years later, we found our way back to each other. Seven years after that, we got married. Reading the Headlines As the years passed, my grown-up children handled their own relationships. Like many young adults, they probably found it easier to share their joys and struggles with friends rather than ...

Dear Tenten, You know I don't say the line "I am proud of you". I choose to tell stories about you to other people. I want others to know that I am pleased about you. While I am at it, I can say I am also pleased about myself on how well you have performed. It is as if I have something to do with whatever you have attained. Maybe you are right when you said I wanted to be part of everything about you. I can't help it. I understand when you said you are pressured. It is like you are accomplishing things because of me so that I can feel good about myself. Nevertheless, truth still remains that you did well and it was you who worked hard for it, not me. This was your accomplishment! Because I am your mother (NANAY AKO!), allow me to say my piece on your new beginning. You are now entering the new phase of adulthood. Maybe you would want to lead your adult life your own way.  It's okay. But, I cannot overemphasize the importance of taking responsibility. Be...