CRISTINE FARINAS

Five years ago, I wrote this on my Facebook page: You know you've lived a life when you've gone out of your comfort zone and realise that that's one of the best things you've ever done in your life.  Since that day, I've never been afraid to step out of my comfort zone because let's face it, you can only remain comfortable in one place for so long. After a while, our comfort zone becomes the source of our misery and dissatisfaction. Saying that though, sometimes we would rather suck it up for a little longer than subject ourselves to gruelling job applications and interviews. Oftentimes, it is our fear of starting over again that prevents us from walking away. Or sometimes, because the arrangement is convenient for us, it doesn't matter if we are happy or not. Fortunately for me, I learned through the years that life is too short to stay in a place that no longer serves me. And so, three months ago, I decided to give up the job that I thought I loved

Things indeed happen for a reason. Whilst I was disappointed that our trip to California in August was cancelled at the last minute, I am grateful that we were able to visit Seattle a few weeks ago, even just for a couple of days. This trip came as a surprise, so we didn't have much time to plan our itinerary. J and I had different priorities, and mine was to catch up with my cousin Dyami, whom I haven't seen since 2015. The last time I saw him was in the Philippines. As I was telling Dyami, I think that full day I spent with him in Seattle was our first proper bonding moment in more than 20 years. It was very heartwarming to have been able to have a proper catch up with this funny young man.  I requested to see a panoramic view of Seattle, so he took me first to Hamilton Viewpoint Park. Then we drove back to Downtown Seattle and visited the very popular Pike Place Market. Dyami was very enthusiastic in showing me the gum wall that I didn't understand what he