I’ve been meaning to write a post since mid-April 2025, and I can finally say it. April definitely outdid March in terms of experiences.

The month began with an unplanned trip to Tagaytay and Caleruega. Despite the increasing urbanization and worsening traffic in Tagaytay, it still offers a sense of peace and comfort I can’t find in Manila. The cool weather and scenic views were exactly the kind of breather I needed.

The short break was disrupted with a legal ordeal from my paternal family. An older cousin requested that I take the lead in addressing this concern. Working with different government agencies (the police and regional trial courts) is something I never wanted to experience again. I skipped worked on several days. I coordinated with a private legal team. I went from one government agency to another. In as much as I wanted to detail this experience, all I can say is that some government agencies need to upgrade their processes and documentary requirements. I encountered civil servants, who don't take their responsibilities seriously. I'll never forget those who wore bedroom slippers in their workstation,  don't have an urgency to accommodate clients and don't seem to understand the processes of their own office. In the end, I'm thankful that my share in this responsibility is already over. 

The awaited Holy Week break also happened in April. I initially conditioned myself to use the time to accomplish some office works. But tiredness overpowered. Though in the middle of the Holy Week break, we had a quick trip to Subic. As always, the scenery in SCTex never fails. Cruising SCTex during the sunset will always be one of my favorite things to do.  

While catching up with work, we returned to Tagaytay for an overnight stay. An AirBnB overlooking Taal Lake, netflix, evening Sweddish massage, cooking breakfast food for dinner and waking up with the colder weather made me feel that there will always be kinder and gentler days. 

Today, before heading home, I felt another wave of sadness and exhaustion. I stopped by Sta. Cruz Church, said a prayer, stayed for a while and as always, wrote my petitions. Life is hard. Some days, it feels even harder. Despite everything, I hold on to the belief that things will eventually get better.