Today is December 13, 2024. As I open Chapter 31 of my life story, I find myself reflecting on a year filled with change, challenges, and profound lessons. Every December 13th, a tradition of self-reflection accompanies my birthday. This year is no different. I’m sharing personal insights wrapped in creativity—each topic inspired by a Eurovision song title.
Let’s dive in.
Growing Up Is Getting Old
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this year is that growing up means embracing the reality of aging—both for ourselves and our loved ones. My parents, now both over 65, remain active and energetic, but the realization that they are aging hits hard. At 31, I’m feeling the weight of responsibility as their only child.
In Latino/Hispanic culture, this deep interdependence between parents and children is common. The expectation to support and eventually provide for your parents adds pressure.
Is it tough? Absolutely. But as the song says, “Growing Up Is Getting Old.”
Snap
Turning the page to Chapter 31, I’ve realized that sometimes you just need to “Snap” and push through life’s difficulties. This year has been one of transformation.
From working on weight loss and building confidence to stepping into a new role at work, 2024 has been a year of resilience. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve made significant strides in areas that matter most to me. Each challenge has shaped me into a better version of myself.
Grito
Self-discovery often comes with moments where all you want to do is scream—or, as the Portuguese Eurovision entry puts it, “Grito.” Here’s an excerpt from the song:
Transformei cada verso de mim
E entregue à coragem
Que ainda arde
Ainda arde
Bate a luz no peito e abre
Sou chama que ainda arde
Ainda arde
Ainda arde
This verse resonates deeply with me. It captures the process of transformation and courage—finding the fire within yourself to keep going. Growth is not always easy, but it’s rewarding. And in moments of frustration, I’ve embraced the power of release, reminding myself that it’s all part of the journey.
The Code
As I start to navigate Chapter 31, I’ve been focused on cracking “The Code” of inner peace. It’s about making peace with the past, understanding the present, and maintaining hope for the future.
I’ll admit—I’m still figuring it out. And I have a lot of things to figure out! Some questions remain unanswered, but each step forward brings clarity. Balancing the weight of the unknown while striving for personal growth is my ongoing mission.
Final Thoughts
Chapter 31 is a milestone in my life story—a year of learning, adapting, and evolving. As I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded that growth isn’t linear, and it’s okay to embrace the ups and downs. Here’s to more lessons, challenges, and victories in the chapters ahead.
Thank you so much for making it through here. It’s been a long read, I hope I have expressed myself as clearly as possible, and thank you so much for being a part of my journey.