Journey: A Letter To Myself

Hey Jerome,

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a year already. When I think back on everything that’s happened, I can't help but be amazed at how far you've come. So much has changed, and yet, some things still feel so fresh, like they happened just yesterday.

Looking at everything you've achieved this year, it’s hard to put it into words. On the one hand, finishing your classes was such a huge accomplishment. But it was more than that. It’s the small moments that stand out too. You bought things for your family, started to speak up more at work, and—most importantly—you started to believe in yourself. You were shy and unsure of yourself at the beginning of the year, but somewhere along the way, you became someone different. You grew in ways you never expected. 

It's crazy to think how you overcame some of the toughest moments of your work life. Remember those busy days of your whole department? It felt like carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. But you weren't alone. What made it all bearable was the teamwork. You had people beside you, willing to pitch in and help. You’ve learned that no matter how tough the work is, it’s the people around you that make it easier.

You've also learned a lot about yourself this year too. The biggest lesson? Growth takes time. Sometimes, it feels like you’re stuck, like nothing is moving forward. But looking back now, every challenge and setback was part of the process. You've learned that if you're not struggling or challenged, then you're not growing. Those tough moments? They were the moments that shaped you into who you are today.

This year was also about what you learned from others. You’ve met so many people, clients and colleagues alike, and each one has taught you something valuable. You’ve learned to see things from other people’s perspectives, to be more empathetic, and to understand that everyone has their own story. These relationships, these connections, they’ve changed the way you see the world.

And then there were the emotional moments. The ones that stood out to you the most were at the Staff Assembly and Christmas Party when you won the dance competitions. Those moments weren’t just about winning. It was the way everyone cheered for your team, the way your boss, Mother Pin, gave you that warm hug. I remember you telling yourself that it was like hugging your mom. It wasn’t just the recognition—it was the love, the support, and the feeling of being truly appreciated for the person you are.

Looking back, we realize that the greatest challenge wasn’t just the balancing act or the long hours. It was about figuring out how to keep going, even when things seemed impossible. You made it through, and you're stronger for it. You've learned to be kinder to yourself, to accept that it’s okay to not have all the answers, and that asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.

As we look ahead to next year, I can’t help but feel excited for you. I know there will be more challenges, but I also know you're ready for them. This year has shaped you in ways you couldn’t have imagined, and I feel you are more equipped to face whatever comes next. You will be the person who reaches out to the new Camalig Bankers, the way your colleagues reached out to you when you were just starting. I know you will pass on that same support, that same kindness because I know how much it means to you.

Jerome, if there’s one thing I want you to remember, it’s this: You’ve come so far. This year was just the beginning, and the best is yet to come. Keep pushing, keep growing, and never forget that you are capable of amazing things.

You’ve made it this far. Just keep going.

With so much pride,

Jerome