Welcome to The First Experiences, a curated collection of personal essays exploring the joy and impact of consuming culture through films, theater, concerts, music, and more. This series reflects on the nostalgia of past moments that shaped my perspective and anticipates future experiences that promise inspiration and growth. From the magic of live performances to the emotional resonance of timeless cinema, each essay dives into how these cultural milestones influence creativity, self-expression, and personal growth.
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Rewatching The Holiday in a world of dating apps and disappearing sincerity feels like holding a mirror to our hunger for real connection. This essay traces how love, timing, and tenderness collide in an age of mechanical affection—where staying soft becomes an act of survival. For anyone still hoping for something organic, slow, and deeply…
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Join me on an unforgettable journey to Buscalan Village in the heart of the Cordillera mountains, where I had the honor of receiving the iconic three-dot Kalinga tattoo from Whang-Od, the last and most celebrated mambabatok (traditional tattoo artist) of the Philippines. Immerse yourself in the living heritage of Filipino indigenous culture as you explore…
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Attending my first concert was more than just ticking off a bucket list item—it was a deeply personal and transformative experience. On January 31, 2025, I found myself in Quezon City, Philippines, surrounded by a crowd that shared my admiration for Aurora. As the first concert of the year for both the artist and me,…
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Watching Eat, Pray, Love felt like an invitation to reflect on my own journey of self-discovery. Liz’s decision to leave behind a life that no longer fulfilled her and embark on a transformative quest through Italy, India, and Bali resonated deeply. Her experiences—finding joy in simple pleasures, seeking spiritual growth, and rediscovering love—highlight the courage…
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Music has always been a lifeline for me—a way to navigate emotions and uncover parts of myself I might have otherwise overlooked. It’s like a time capsule of my life, holding the memories, seasons, and relationships that have shaped me. My Spotify Wrapped 2019 was a striking reminder of this, a playlist that mirrored the…
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Music has always been my personal guide and a means of self-reflection, shaping my memories and growth in ways I never imagined. Every song I’ve loved holds a story—whether it’s the bittersweet soundtrack of high school graduation, the relentless playlists that got me through college stress, or the heartbreak ballads that mirrored my relationship struggles.…
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In October 2024, I returned to travel after over a decade, venturing to the breathtaking island of Boracay, Philippines, for a work trip. Initially weighed down by financial worries and pre-trip stress, I found the experience unexpectedly transformative. From a chaotic first night of drinks with colleagues to quiet moments of self-reflection inspired by tarot…
