Faith & Renewal

Year End Reflection with YATTA

This December has been a month of closure, celebration, and deep self-reflection. The festive season reminded me of the joy of connection, both personally and professionally. At work, with the organization, with agents, and with family, I experienced moments of gratitude and celebration. While I allowed myself to enjoy these moments, I also acknowledged the weight of a year full of responsibilities, challenges, and personal growth.

This month was particularly special because YATTA celebrated 20 years of nurturing young artists and advocates for the community. One of the highlights for me was Friends with YATTA, where I had the joy of performing alongside the kapatids. Singing the songs and dancing the dances of YATTA reminded me of the creative spirit, vision, mission, and advocacy that the organization embodies. It was a powerful reflection that all the work of YATTA is by the young people, for the people, and to the people within the community.

I am deeply grateful for such a space, a space that encourages engagement, creativity, and critical reflection on life and social realities. Through YATTA, we do not simply create art for expression; we craft experiences that awaken awareness, challenge perspectives, and inspire action. It is about internalizing life lessons, understanding social issues, and standing by one’s faith, values, and principles.

On a personal level, December was a month of transition and self-prioritization. After years of dedicating myself tirelessly to work and others, I chose to step back and resign from my long-term position. While it was bittersweet to leave the company that supported my family and career, I recognized the need to reclaim my mental health, creativity, and personal space. I feel both relieved and excited for the freedom and clarity this decision brings.

Through it all, Hebrews 11:1 anchors my reflection: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. By faith, we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” My 2025 journey has been a testament to faith over feelings, trust over uncertainty, and hope over visible results.

December is not just an ending it is a bridge to renewal. I step into 2026 carrying lessons, wisdom, and gratitude. I carry the knowledge that my presence, work, and care for others are meaningful. I step into the new year ready to honor my peace, nurture my growth, and continue walking with faith as my compass.

Indeed, 2025 was a year of endurance, reflection, creativity, leadership, and reclamation. I am grateful for struggles, triumphs, learning, relationships, and for the unwavering guidance of God. The year closes not with exhaustion, but with hope, clarity, and a renewed commitment to live with purpose and faith.

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