#BirthdayReflection

[heretohold]

heretopost First Entry: Finally Starting 📅 May 18, 2025

Welcome to heretopost.

I’ve always wanted to start a blog. For the longest time, I just didn’t know how to begin—or what to write about. I kept putting it off, waiting for the perfect idea or the right words to come. But nothing ever felt quite right.

Lately though, life has been testing me in ways I didn’t expect. And in the middle of all that, I realized I needed an outlet—a space where I could release my thoughts and emotions, not just to share them, but to better understand myself. Writing feels like a good first step. So here I am—heretopost.

By the way, today is my birthday. I'm spending it in a faraway place, celebrating quietly—alone. I felt like I needed to do this... to create space for some deep thinking. I’m in a cool, misty place surrounded by lush greenery, peaceful views, and calm silence. You won't hear the usual city buzz here—just the wind, the trees, and the occasional bird call. It’s the kind of place where you can breathe a little deeper.

I wanted to disengage from the noise of city life, reconnect with nature, and just be in a place where no one knows me. No pressure to talk, no need to explain anything, no expectations. Just me.

How does it feel to celebrate alone? Honestly, I’m not even sure. I'm torn between feeling peaceful and a little melancholic. The day passed like any ordinary one—but somehow, I got to do the things I truly wanted. I had a really good stone massage, finally satisfied my long-time craving for a vegan burger (and it was worth the wait), and I did a 10K walk after discovering a nearby oval track. Walking clears my head—especially when I need to process my thoughts.

When I returned to the hotel, I was so exhausted that I slept like a baby. That kind of deep, restful sleep I rarely get.

And then, there was this one thing that made the day quietly special. Someone very dear to me made the effort to visit. We had breakfast together and went out for a short walk before parting ways. It was simple—but deeply meaningful. No birthday cake, no birthday song, no parties. Just sincere text messages from people who remembered me. And strangely... I liked it that way.

Maybe heretopost won’t be perfect. Maybe my entries will be random, raw, and unfiltered. But if it helps me reconnect with myself, that’s enough.

Thanks for reading. I’m just getting started. ✨

“Sometimes you just need a break, in a beautiful place, alone, to figure everything out.” — Unknown

👤 About the author: Hi, I'm Tsu. I overthink a lot and feel deeply. This blog is a quiet space where I get to be honest—with myself and with anyone who might be reading. Thank you for being here.

[chefturnedtrainer]

A Birthday Reflection: When Celebrations Feel Hollow

Birthdays are supposed to be a time of joy, a day to reflect on another year lived, and ideally, feel celebrated by the people around you. But this year, my birthday was anything but joyful. It was bland, uneventful, and—if I’m being honest—disappointing. I spent half the day working remotely, and after lunch, I made the decision to go offline to spend time with my wife and daughter. Despite this, the weight of the day hung heavily over me.

In an age where we’ve become conditioned to social media validation, I couldn’t help but notice the silence. I received fewer than 50 greetings on Facebook, most of them from acquaintances or distant relatives. Two were from coworkers, and two others from my siblings. A couple of phone calls came in, but they were from distant family members. The absence that hit hardest, though, was the lack of any acknowledgment from my parents or my sister who works abroad. Not a single message or call from them on my birthday.

It stung, but not in the way it used to. It was more a dull ache than a sharp pain, and that’s what concerned me the most. The truth is, I’ve been distant from my family for years, starting around 2015 when I began being left out of family gatherings. Each time I expressed hurt or tried to distance myself, I was branded as uncaring. The irony was that during times of financial crisis in the household—when my parents struggled to pay for electricity, food, or other basic needs—I stepped in to take care of it, no questions asked. I didn’t do it for recognition, but deep down, I wanted to be acknowledged for helping out. Unfortunately, my efforts were never seen or appreciated.

My father, in particular, has become a sore point in my life. He often compares me to my sister, who sends a significant amount of money every month to support their lifestyle. "Kulang kulang hapmilyun," he says, referring to the half a million she sends regularly. Meanwhile, I am constantly reminded of how little I contribute in comparison. It's hard not to internalize that, no matter how much I’ve done or continue to do.

The lies and broken promises only add to the strain. Earlier this year, he told me he couldn't send the house budget, so I covered it for the time being. He promised to repay me, but the money never came. I even bought a second-hand car, under the impression that repairs and a repaint would be covered by a mechanic he recommended. Turns out, there was no such agreement. To top it all off, the car I actually wanted—an old white Honda Civic that I’d driven for years—wasn't even an option. He refused to sell it to me, preferring to give it to a relative or scrap it entirely rather than let me buy it. Why? I still don’t know.

In just a few short months, my relationship with my parents has deteriorated. I’ve stopped pretending, stopped forcing smiles or pleasantries for the sake of peace. It’s a strange dynamic—being financially supportive of people who refuse to acknowledge your efforts or even treat you with basic respect. I’m still living at the family home, mainly because I haven’t finalized paperwork to get my own place. But I worry about what this environment will teach my daughter. Will she grow up thinking that this animosity is normal? Will she believe that this strained relationship with her grandparents is just the way things are?

This birthday wasn’t just a reminder of getting older; it was a stark reflection of how much has changed. A year that should have been filled with celebration felt hollow, not because of the lack of a party or grand gestures, but because the relationships I once relied on have frayed beyond recognition.

Maybe the lesson here is that not every birthday is meant to be celebrated. Sometimes, it’s just another day. But I hope as I move forward, that I can create a new kind of celebration—one rooted in the love and support of my wife and daughter, and not dependent on the validation I once sought from my parents or social media.

[unabashedlyfuriousenthusiast]

More Than Just Words

Alec: Make Note of Turquoise Necklace! All I truly desired for my birthday was to lose myself in a good book. As any bookworm understands, books are more than just words on a page; they offer a unique window into someone else’s perspective and, as a result, shape and transform one’s life. Why bother with airplanes or spaceships when I can explore countless universes from the comfort of my…

[harmonyhealinghub]

Why Birthdays Are Special, Even Though Everyone Has One Shaina Tranquilino July 29, 2024

We've all heard someone say, "Why are birthdays considered special? Everyone has one." It's a fair question, but it misses the point. Birthdays are universally celebrated because they offer a unique blend of personal significance and shared human experience. Let's explore why birthdays hold such a special place in our lives, despite being a common occurrence.

Celebrating Life's Journey

Birthdays mark the passage of time in our personal journeys. Each year brings new experiences, challenges, and growth. Celebrating a birthday is a way to acknowledge and appreciate the progress we've made. It's a reminder of our resilience, our ability to adapt, and the wisdom we've gained along the way.

A Day Just for You

In a world where we often feel like just another face in the crowd, birthdays provide a rare opportunity to feel truly special. It’s a day when we are the focal point of our social circles. Friends and family come together to celebrate us, showering us with love, attention, and good wishes. This recognition can boost our self-esteem and make us feel valued.

Strengthening Bonds

Birthdays are not just about the individual; they are also about the relationships we cherish. Celebrating birthdays strengthens our bonds with others. Whether it’s a simple phone call, a heartfelt message, or a grand party, these gestures remind us that we are connected and loved. They provide an opportunity for people to express their appreciation and affection, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Creating Memories

Memories are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives, and birthdays are often the source of some of our most cherished memories. From the excitement of childhood parties to the meaningful milestones of adulthood, birthday celebrations create lasting impressions. These memories can bring joy and comfort, serving as touchstones we return to throughout our lives.

Reflection and Gratitude

Birthdays are a natural time for reflection. They encourage us to look back on the past year and consider our achievements, challenges, and personal growth. This reflection often leads to a sense of gratitude. We become more aware of the support we’ve received, the opportunities we’ve had, and the simple joys of life. This sense of gratitude can enhance our overall well-being and outlook on life.

Milestones and Achievements

Certain birthdays hold particular significance as milestones. Turning 16, 18, 21, 30, 50, and so on, are often seen as rites of passage, each bringing new privileges and responsibilities. Celebrating these milestones underscores our journey through different stages of life and acknowledges our accomplishments along the way.

Cultural and Social Significance

Birthdays have cultural and social significance as well. Different cultures have various traditions and customs associated with birthdays, adding a rich tapestry of meaning to these celebrations. Whether it’s blowing out candles, receiving specific types of gifts, or partaking in traditional foods, these practices connect us to our heritage and community.

A Pause to Celebrate

Life can be hectic and filled with routine. Birthdays offer a much-needed pause to celebrate, not just for the individual whose birthday it is, but for everyone involved. They are a chance to break from the ordinary, to gather with loved ones, and to indulge in joy and festivity. This break can rejuvenate us and provide a fresh perspective on our everyday lives.

While it’s true that everyone has a birthday, the personal and collective significance of these celebrations is what makes them special. Birthdays are a testament to our journey through life, our connections with others, and the memories we create. They provide a day of personal significance amidst the universal experience, reminding us that while we share the commonality of existence, each of our lives is uniquely valuable and worthy of celebration. So, the next time you hear someone question the importance of birthdays, you’ll have plenty of reasons to explain why they truly are special. On this note, I'd like to wish my mom a very happy birthday. Your love has shaped me, and I wouldn't be here without you!

[carlosroborto]

Birthday Vlog In Beijing 🌸🎂在北京四合院过生日啦～

It's been over a decade since a birthday was celebrated at home! Finally had a lovely birthday in Beijing 😊 The more I grow up, the more I realize that as long as the birthday is reunited with family and friends, happiness is enough🍭

[theloulouge]

Reminder Reflections 13

“Even in the realm of daydreams, the seeds of inspiration are sown, nurturing our growth from afar.” – The Loulouge

[superanjventure]

Day 20 (On Time): The Room of Requirement – Giving Myself What I Need

The Room of Requirement only appears when someone truly needs it. It doesn’t open when you want to impress someone.Not when you’re performing.Not even when you’re forcing yourself to “power through.” It shows up when your soul whispers,“I can’t keep doing this like before. I need something else.” And maybe that’s the most magical thing about it:It doesn’t ask what you deserve.It simply gives…

[thefeistyaries]

I stopped shrinking on my birthday. I'm claiming my space, my love, and my life. Read how I'm turning the pain into power. Link in bio #selflovejourney #healingjourney #birthdayreflections

[instructionsonback]

[freshthoughts2020]

[isabella-rose-trastamara]

It feels so odd having to update my age on my profile. I feel like I’ve been 24 for forever 😅

[kindnessncake]

You're 40, Shawty! And Other Potential Themes for My Birthday

Dear Glorious Readers, Today, I celebrate my 40th birthday—a milestone that brings both reflection and excitement. This past year has been a rollercoaster, filled with challenges and personal growth. Your support has meant the world to me. As I step into

Cat’s out of the bag! I’m turning 40 today. *Cue the string quartet and mid-life crisis montage* Remember when the 40th Birthday was an “Over the Hill” party? The invitations implied that one had officially reached the half-way point of life and now it was all downhill toward our inevitable death. The balloons were black that the rest of the decor was Cemetery themed. *Sounds real…

[xtheblissfulbloggerx]

39 & Glowing

Hello 39! Another year wiser, another year filled with love. Stepping into 39 with grace, gratitude, and a little extra sparkle. Forever grateful for the beautiful souls in my life who make every moment special. Here’s to celebrating life, love, and all the magic in between. Let’s make this year unforgettable! ✨ #BirthdayReflections #BlessedAndGrateful #BirthdayGlow #LivingMyBestLife…

[unabashedlyfuriousenthusiast]

Different Kind of (Birth) Days

The phone rang, shattering the morning’s workday quiet. It was Camille. Her ominous voice carried a weight that chilled me to the bone in midsummer. “It’s Michelle’s family. There’s been a horrible accident … ” she began, her words gripping the air like a heavy fog. Five years ago, on August 13, a rip current claimed the life of Phil, my dear friend Michelle’s husband. Three months later, our…

[ellerantz]

39 & Glowing

Hello 39! Another year wiser, another year filled with love. Stepping into 39 with grace, gratitude, and a little extra sparkle. Forever grateful for the beautiful souls in my life who make every moment special. Here’s to celebrating life, love, and all the magic in between. Let’s make this year unforgettable! ✨ #BirthdayReflections #BlessedAndGrateful #BirthdayGlow #LivingMyBestLife…

[itzmikaella]

39 & Glowing

Hello 39! Another year wiser, another year filled with love. Stepping into 39 with grace, gratitude, and a little extra sparkle. Forever grateful for the beautiful souls in my life who make every moment special. Here’s to celebrating life, love, and all the magic in between. Let’s make this year unforgettable! ✨ #BirthdayReflections #BlessedAndGrateful #BirthdayGlow #LivingMyBestLife…