2025 was one of the most challenging and critical years I've experienced in recent decades. It was a journey of many changes in every sense, leaving me with invaluable experiences and lessons learned.

In January, for work reasons, I was living in Esquipulas, Chiquimula; I had been away from my family for four months, surrounded by extraordinary people who became dear friends. Just as suddenly as the adventure began, it ended; packing into my suitcases and my car a wealth of experiences that forged character, resilience, and determination.

I returned home, and resuming the routine of a familiar environment wasn't easy, but I understood that it had to be this way because I had many pending matters to resolve that couldn't wait any longer. One of those matters was settling financial issues that were already robbing me of my peace; a crisis that led me to introspect and appreciate what I have and what is truly essential.

My relationship with money had never been something I considered or reflected on, nor had I ever been aware of how much I cared about managing my finances and the effort it takes to generate income, until this year. I can say without a doubt that it has been one of the hard knocks I most needed to experience in order to be grateful for the opportunities that have arisen to meet my obligations.

I must also give thanks for the ordeal I faced. On my last return to Esquipulas, it was so unexpected that in a matter of seconds I made a courageous decision: to confront my attacker. It was only a few minutes, but for me it was enough time to realize that I had overcome that chapter. All the pain he once caused me, which had motivated me to rise stronger, is now behind me.

The weeks and months have passed, bringing with them unique moments, wonderful gifts like being surrounded by loved ones and unconditional friends; a job I'm passionate about that has allowed me to interact with people from whom I've learned so much. I've also received blessings that come from cultivating my trust and faith in a divine being.

I've faced so many situations during 2025, some favorable and others not, but overall, it's been a positive experience. Having the joy of opening my eyes every day, being healthy, and having the conviction that prosperous times are ahead motivates me to keep going, knowing that it's one day at a time and enjoying the here and now.

I am fortunate to be who I am today, to have worked on many aspects to heal, grow and move forward in order to be a better version of myself in a holistic way.

2025 is drawing to a close, and before it ends, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the journey we've shared and, above all, for all the lessons I've learned, especially the lesson of shedding stereotypes and being honest with myself to lighten the load. I learned to say no without guilt and to set healthy boundaries as part of self-care; now I communicate without shame when I'm feeling drained.

Thank you, thank you so much.

By:

Patricia Orantes Alarcón