Three months ago, you left the country, you left your home to find your luck in New Jersey. The processing of your paper was so fast compared to the papers of those who are furiously wanting to get there. Everybody says you're lucky and most of them envies your luck. And I agree with them telling you that you're lucky. But I do not agree with them being envious. Everyone is lucky in different ways, I believe. Everyone is blessed. Everyone. Including that grandma asking for some penny in the street [she's alive isn't she?].

I did not witness you cry in bed each night but I know how you missed everything back here. You were too miserable. You thought you made the wrong choice [but I'm telling you... you did not make a wrong choice]. Leaving the country [and your friends and family] is never a wrong choice. Maybe it was fate or easier said, it's in God's plan for you [and I don't think anyone has the right to question Him].

And during those times that you battled with yourself you learned so many things about yourself. You came to realize what happiness means to you. You arrived with a decision. And the time has come that you have to face your greatest fear of facing the truth. I was so proud of you [I'm not really good at confronting people telling them how I feel].

Now you're back home. I know how frightened you are to hear people tell to your face: "SAYANG!". But still, one by one you're facing them.    

Sayang... a word Filipinos often utter everytime they feel like something is being thrown away.

In your case, people shouldn't say that. For going there gave you so much more than a job or a greener pasture could give you. You were given the time to reflect on your life here. It's like you were given the chance to ride on a plane and see the earth from a distance. You were given the chance to know how wonderful your brother and his family are. You were given the chance to hear from your love ones that they love you and that no matter what you decide, they will support you 100%. And the best of all is that you got to know yourself more. Now you know what makes you happy and what gives you peace of mind.

Yes, you lost big bucks. But you're lucky that it's all you have lost. Some people lose "people" to learn the things you have learned. Some people lose more than money before they realize the things that really matters in life. You're lucky. Money is the only price you had to pay.

Stop worrying about tomorrow. What matters is that you're back home. You have found your meaning of happiness. You see, no one knows about our future but I know one constant thing with it. Whatever comes tomorrow, God is certainly, 101% working within us.

No matter what you decide. No matter where you go. Remember: Happiness is where our home is.

Welcome HOME, Au!