By: Sophia Sta. Ana of Grade 10D – Hooke
My greatest obstacle was hazy, hidden within a feverish and harsh blizzard. The cold weather seeped into my clothing, regardless of how warmly I dressed. It made my body numb, draining my energy easily, but I kept walking, eager to see the root of my winter.
Yet I hid, shying away from facing it headstrong. I was cowardly for doing so. I knew it would end if I ventured further, but somehow I spiraled around the thought that it was pointless. What if spring did no good for me either?
Feeling caged by my own self, I realized something.
Was the obstacle I wanted to desperately reach and defeat… me?
All of a sudden, the wind slowed down, and my cheeks warmed up.
This time, I didn’t hesitate. I walked forward.
“Halt,” I mumbled to myself.
There was no wall, no obstacle—just a girl with her arms wide open, trying to prevent me from going forward.
“You… you can’t pass. It’s dangerous!”
I smiled softly, almost laughing. The scenery ahead was lush with green grass; birds were chirping, and the sun was comforting even with a single ray.
“Is it? How so? Have you ever tried turning around?”
She nodded. “But aren’t you scared to face the unknown?”
I tilted my head. “Why is that the only thing running in your mind? Why should fear stop you from moving forward?”
The little girl paused. She was me. Hearing these words, her expression shifted. Her hands slowly lowered as she thought deeply.
“I never thought about it like that. I curated a storm, stopping you from achieving what you want. I’m sorry.”
She paused and stared straight at me.
“I was protecting you, not trying to hide you away. Please forgive me.”
I pulled her into a hug, patting her head affectionately. Knowing that we had reached acceptance, she let me go.
Finally, I stepped into a new season.
I entered spring with a newfound perspective toward life.
Two more seasons to go…
“One of the selected writers for January, highlighting the theme: New Beginning, New Voices.”