I wasn’t sure my social battery could still sustain such a gathering. All I knew was there were people I wanted to see again. I spent the actual birthday weeks ago with immediate family and the remaining hours with Carla, Sheena, and Eric at Filling Station, Poblacion. Suffice to say, that was a visually stimulating nightcap. Still, even with the pandemic making me permanently accustomed to smaller get-togethers, an exception had to be made. I knew I couldn’t skip celebrating a landmark age. 

Months ago, I’d mulled over a grand celebration, replete with structured program flow, at a rented venue. I figured, I was never eligible for a “debut” and it’s unlikely that I’d have a wedding in the traditional sense soon. For me, turning 40 was that chance. But, that was part of the assumption that I’d stick to my erstwhile status quo. News flash: I didn’t. It was all the more reason to stick with chosen family – within a more realistic budget. 

I’ll spare you the back story behind the eventual venue, except maybe for one tidbit. It’s where I shot my final project for the short film course I took 15 years ago. So, to regain access to a place I once associated with a creative breakthrough felt rather symbolic. It’s in line with the kind of life and pace I’m trying to manifest. 

The day happened to be my brother Anton’s 35th birthday. As a person with special needs, he usually ends his day past lunch and leaving the house becomes out of the question. In a way, the get-together was also for him, even if he was in the comforts of his room.

I didn’t anticipate everyone to show up, but there was joy in having most of my friendship circles represented. Given how this age tends to be associated with restarting life, the reconnection couldn’t be more opportune. They’re still crucial to my journey. That much, I emphasized when I addressed the group. And as I singled out the talent center youngsters, I finally explained why I had to head a different direction (again). And I did drop one hint: I’m not done working with artists.

Overall, intimacy prevailed that night. Though I know five hours aren’t enough to catch up with everyone, much less reestablish ties. If there’s one major takeaway I had from the past five years, most of which I spent in quarantine, recovering from surgery, and toiling through consultancies, it’s that the presence of someone you value is already a gift in itself. So, there will be follow-ups and I’ll make every month count. That will be my theme for the rest of the year.