LEGALITY
By Jaselle Jane A. Abundar
Turning 18 officially marks the end of childhood. We look forward to our birthdays every year. Some people mark their birthday in a grand manner. Others are good at celebrating birthdays with their family which is simple but memorable. Each of us has our way of giving appreciation to our Creator for giving us an additional year to be bolder, amazing, and unique. It's unique in that it only happens once a year, and we get to enjoy it with great delight and satisfaction.
My mother gave birth to me in the month of August. When July arrived, right around the corner, the feeling of excitement consumed my heart. I valued my birthday the most because it is the time when I received best wishes and gifts. When August 2022 rolls along, the anticipation grows wilder. My parents were busy spending most of their time buying stuff that they would use for my birthday. My mother's friend decorated my birthday with a garden motif the night before the celebration. Because of the pink and yellow flowers and white foliage that hung above the circle composed of small branches with my name in the center, the atmosphere was picture-perfect.
D-day. I awoke with a sense of euphoria, freedom, and love. The first thing I saw when I left my bedroom with a smile on my face was my parents, tita's, tito's, cousins, and grandparents preparing for my day. For my special day, CJ, my cousin, helped me look stunning with my dress. I have a green square neck with a slit on my left leg dress and a rose gold off-shoulder dress that ends above my knee. When I arrived at the venue, a fluttering smile greeted me because we were complete as a family. My best friends, friends, and family had already arrived around 3 p.m. in the afternoon. Lexa, my photographer, caught every moment that will be remembered for the rest of my life. Our laughing became music to my ears, as well as messages that I might use for the rest of my life and tears-inducing gifts.
It was a time in my life that I'll never forget. As I continue down the path where peace and love dominate the world, I always take those memories with me. My 18th birthday was a simple one, but at least I got to spend it with my family. We are lawful at the age of 18. When we are free to explore without fear of repercussions, it is important to remember that it is possible to be free without jeopardizing your future.
