Dear Love,

I was apprehensive taking the trip we were supposed to take together. But it was better than I expected. It’s great being single again.

I finally understand why we can’t be together and I thank you for giving me that. When I went on the trip, I thought maybe I’d be thinking about you all the time and how the trip would be better if you were there with me. Truth is, it was almost perfect without you there.

The combination of work, old and new friends, booze, partying, and stress gave me a new perspective. It would have probably been a fun trip with you but I would have probably been too guarded, too worried about you that I wouldn’t be able to work and party as hard as I did.

I finally see what some of my friends told me, that I wasn’t me when I was with you. It’s both good and bad. Good because I became a better person when I was with you. And bad because somehow I made us the center of my life. You might not believe it, but I was trying very hard to make us work and I suffered for it. Not that I blame you or us. It was a choice I made.

Zamboanga showed me that I can enjoy life as a single person. That I am myself more, and still aspire to better even without you constantly beside me and taking care of me. I can become a better person even if I have no partner to be good for. While life can be lonely and challenging as a single girl, I understand now that life can be beautiful if you allow yourself to see and enjoy the good parts.

I’d like to think our relationship changed me, for the better. But it’s the break up that served me better. I am now more focused and I aspire to be better even more.

I am now back to my groove, writing, blogging, and working even harder. And partying harder, too. I’m smiling wholeheartedly now. And enjoying my days and nights better. And wow… I’m not counting the days anymore.

I cherish our memories together and will forever be grateful for everything you taught me. I still hope to find a partner as great as you were, but I hope the next time won’t end as badly. I don’t think this heart can take any more heartaches. And if my heart breaks again, I’m hoping it will just make me stronger and wiser. Otherwise, the next guy who breaks my heart will definitely get punched in the face.

For being part of my life and for setting me free, MUCHAS GRACIAS!

Hoping for the best for you. I look forward to the day when we can be really good friends. And apologies for all the hurt and pain I caused you. I love you.

And I leave you with this song…

“Nothing compares, no worries or cares
Regrets and mistakes, they’re memories made
Who would have known how bittersweet this would taste?

Never mind, I’ll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you
Don’t forget me, I begged, I remember you said
Sometimes it lasts in love, but sometimes it hurts instead”

Eternally grateful,

Ria 🙂

PS To the old and new friends who made my working vacation in Zamboanga a memorable one, MUCHAS GRACIAS! <3