Happy, 28.

Maybe it was because I had grew out of my egocentric need to be loved—or I’ve had my fill of it over the years. Maybe it’s simply maturing.

I sat there in the living room, watching Os talk to Mich, and Wanyi attentively listening to Angie share about her Genshin gameplay. It wasn’t all about me, and yet I was incredibly and deeply contented and happy. I paused and savoured that moment—where my closest friends had celebrated me, and that they were also enjoying themselves.

I’d even say this was one of my best birthdays ever. It was simple, we just had snacks in my kitchen, played a game that rewound our memories together in our friendships. My brother joining in the fun and cooking the best scrambled eggs for my friends.

Of course, I’m also extremely thankful for all my friends who had surprised and celebrated me. But nothing had beat the simplicity of being loved, and accepting it. Maybe I had learned to finally receive love, and knowing that I’m loved and that I am actually worthy of it.

God has been with me on one of this longest journey of what it means to be loved in its purest and simplest form, and giving the grace to appreciate this.

I’m still learning, but my goodness… this had been the best life—because of Jesus.