The Stylish Scholar

~Cris, June 24, 2019, Age 27

In the waves of change, we find our true direction. Recently, I visited the beach after a long time. The sound of the ocean waves ebbing on the sands, the golden sun shimmering across the blue skies, warm seawater drifting on my skin... it is a mystical experience that keeps me in touch with my inner self. I was pondering on how a lot of changes can happen within the span of a year. I used to be so worried about stepping out of my comfort zone. But as I slowly embraced my courage, the abundance of opportunities and beautiful possibilities came my way. I learned to move forward in life with love as my sword, faith as my shield and gratitude inside my heart. Life might be difficult at times, but I am unafraid. I am undaunted. 💗✨ (at Laiya, Batangas, Philippines) https://www.instagram.com/p/ByB70vsBI0B/?igshid=1g119l0djjvqa

Whenever I think of China, I would always remember a dear friend of mine. It's fascinating how our red strings of fate continue to be entwined. I never met him physically, but the emotional connection remains steadfast. Yesterday, I experienced the values of acceptance, trust and gratitude. Acceptance that some things happen beyond our control. Even if we both wanted to see each other so much, finally getting this chance to meet in Manila, an unfortunate situation occured that made it impossible at the moment. Trust that everything happens for a reason and to believe in God's perfect time. If we were truly meant to see each other, it will happen. Maybe not now, but someday. Gratitude to have someone like him in my life. Gratitude in the knowledge that he truly wished to see me. Gratitude that even after over a year of exchanging conversations online, we still have this friendship. Until the right time comes for us to meet, I'll be here and he'll be there, supporting each other from across the distance. 🐼🇨🇳 (at Guangzhou, China) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bvoi8Kbhusk/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=eawlwimtwrtw

"She conquered her demons and wore her scars like wings." - @atticuspoetry I never thought that I was beautiful because of my scars. But I learned to embrace them as part of who I am. True beauty cannot be seen through the eyes, it is felt by the heart. 💗 https://www.instagram.com/p/Btr1zvwBMrp/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1qr885tzznvt4

I am grateful to have an entire day doing the things that I like. Gathering my thoughts, writing in my journal, enjoying good food, meeting some of my best friends, reading a book, taking quiet walks, sharing long-distance video calls with my boyfriend, being surrounded by nature. I love being with people, but most of the time, I prefer being by myself. It's wonderful to get in touch with my emotions, having a sense of clarity on what I want to do with my life. I have so many dreams, so many plans for this year. Having moments of introspection helps me realize what path I should follow, trusting that everything will happen at the right moment. 💚🌸🌿 (at UP Diliman) https://www.instagram.com/p/BtAwHHzhMOs/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=jsi9omwapznu

One of my goals this year is to do more self-love activities, finding time for myself especially during weekends. This would include more trips to cozy cafes with delicious frappes and cakes. 🍰💖☕ (at Rustic Mornings by Isabelo) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsUTvfABl0a/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=zrmh77xgwbco

Happy new year everyone! It's the first day of 2019 and I welcome the year with a joyful heart. One of my goals for 2019 is to make more of my personal creations, just like this tunic that I wore for my cousin's wedding. 💖✨ I want to do things I am passionate about - developing my craft and other creative skills, letting my imagination embrace infinite possibilities. With faith in my heart, I believe that I can do it! 💖✨ (at Manila, Philippines) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsFokBSBtoV/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=6y38c7617ou

~Cris, December 25, 2018

It's Christmas Eve today! This year, I learned about the art of letting go and the gift of a joyful heart. 🎄💖✨ I learned to accept that some people are meant to be temporary in my life. To teach me lessons about myself, to make me see what I couldn't see. Even if I had to let them go, I will never forget how much they helped me grow. Because of these people, I learned to open my heart for those who were meant to stay forever. I lowered the walls guarding my heart, allowing new people to touch my life. I learned to receive the love that they were willing to give. I learned to let go of things that already served their purpose, to make room for something better. For a sentimental person like me, it is not easy to do. But I realized that even if the material things are gone, the memories will always stay in my heart. Learning these things taught me to embrace joyfulness. Giving love to others wholeheartedly and accepting their love with a grateful heart, that is the spirit of Christmas. I wish everyone a Merry Christmas! To all who have been part of my 2018, thank you, for touching my life. God bless you. 🎄💖✨ https://www.instagram.com/p/BrwPYcah1Gp/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=9fndi22l56na

The Joy of God uplifts me. ✨ I am grateful for the people who continue to believe in my life's miracles. With their selfless love, I am Wholehearted. 💖 (at Manila, Philippines) https://www.instagram.com/p/BrWjdrmBkfM/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1fgi5pf39sz2v

I've always loved role-playing games (Final Fantasy!) and I always resonate most with the white mages. ✨ They are quiet, voracious readers, highly creative and intellectual. They support the team from behind, and yet, they have the most powerful and rarest kind of magic. The weakness of white mages is that they give so much of their power to heal others, that they forget to heal their own wounds. They focus on nurturing and loving the people they care for, that they put themselves last. In this journey, it's time for me to put myself first and celebrate the life that was given to me. I am God's Miracle, and with my loving heart, I create magic in people's lives. 💖 #Faith78 #LEAPofFAITH #AngSayaMagLEAP https://www.instagram.com/p/BpBOk9OBshv/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=16s7ygzdwl6g

Canton Tower at night. 🌈 It's a lovely sight to see, both from the apartment window and up close. I enjoy watching the ever-changing colors. To me, it feels relaxing after a long day of work. 🗼 (at Guangzhou, China) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnkPyjrg1IA/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1ma4xyjw986xa

Night and day. 🌛☀️ I am grateful for this beautiful view that welcomed me during my first night in China. Beautiful little lights amidst the midnight sky. It felt soothing to see this sight, with the cool wind touching my skin. Perfect for relaxing after a long day's work and for reflecting on my daily thoughts. 😊 (at Guangzhou, China) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnctytRjhCE/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1syoift2m4hr4

"Don't compare your life to others. There's no comparison between the sun and the moon. They shine when it's their time." 🌞🌛 Sometimes, we wonder why certain people are able to achieve such amazing feats or become "successful" at such a young age. These may lead to moments wherein we question our own capabilities and may feel insecure about ourselves. However, we should remember that each one of us is special. There are things that we can do that others cannot. We have our unique strengths and gifts. 💖 Everyone has their own story to tell, their own journey to experience. Everything will fall into place at the right time. 😊 People say that good things come to those who wait, and I truly believe that. Good things have come to me recently both in my personal and professional lives, and I feel truly grateful. 😇🙏 (at Bencab Museum) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnVHYnQjgvK/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1qbxw01o4a5g7

I only learned how to take selfies two years ago. This was among the first ones that I took. I didn't like taking close up pictures of my face because of my physical insecurities, most especially, my deep acne scars. This year, I learned how to take video calls. It was a hard step for me to take because I couldn't conceal myself behind the golden hour, the perfect lighting and photo retouching technology. He would see me for my true unfiltered self. What struck me most was when G told me that it doesn't matter if I had those ugly scars. If I didn't look as "perfect" as I do in my photos. Because to him, the most important thing is the beauty of my soul. If someone looks beyond appearances, loving you and your perfectly imperfect personality, it's something to be truly grateful for. 😇💖 (at Manila, Philippines)

"If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you've made me smile, the entire evening sky would be in the palm of my hand." 🌟 I've loved that quote since I was an adolescent, when I first read it in one of my daily inspirational cards. To be honest, I used to hide my tears and sadness behind a smile. Probably, I still do sometimes, without me noticing. But growing up, I have learned to smile with genuine happiness because of several reasons. 😄 A smile of gratefulness for the blessings I receive, no matter how big or small. A smile of joy because of the people I love. A smile of hope for the infinite possibilities ahead of me. 💖 It's wonderful, how a simple smile can make a significant difference in a person's life. Smile more and it will attract happiness and positive things into your life. ✨ (at Bolinao, Pangasinan)

I was sorting through the files in my external drive and saw lots of photos of me when I was slimmer and had shorter hair. 🌸 It was interesting to see how my sense of style developed through the years. But one thing that didn't change was my preference for comfort. I've always liked loose shirts and tunics, worn over fitted pants or tucked inside culottes. ✨ Growing older and having changes in my body, I learned to stick to tried-and-tested clothing combinations. Even with accessories, I chose the timeless and delicate ones over costume jewelry. Still, it's fun to try new trends every now and then. 😊 📷 @ianbites (at Laiya, Batangas, Philippines)