"I begrudgingly moved back in with my parents in 2019 after more than 10 years of living by myself, working in Makati City, the Philippines’ business district, and living an independent life. I was in my 30s, single, and felt I should be living alone. But due to personal circumstances, I swallowed my pride and went home.
My mother and I watched the sunset that weekend in Boracay. Taken in March 2022.
Despite my reservations, my time at home positively impacted me and our relationship. Before, we shoved difficult conversations under the rug. Now, we can easily joke about each other’s funny qualities, whereas before, we didn’t even notice them.
Through a failed engagement, cancer scare, and financial difficulties, my parents were there for me, no questions asked. So, I decided I wanted to be more intentional about showing them love.
In living with them for three years, I found these simple and doable ways to express my appreciation."