Belated Happy Birthday Cousin
To my fucking awesome cousin, Christine-Joy, CJ, Ceej, Cee… you’re amazing. You’re my little sister, my exact-opposite twin, my confidante, one of my best friends… I know for a fact that my life would not be the same had you not been born like 5 months after me, you were there in my first memories, and I’ll be cherishing those memories, the laughs, the fights, the squabbling, the teasing, the playing, all of it, until the day I die. You’ve had such an impact on who I am and where I am as a person… I mean come on, I wouldn’t be the person I am, or know the people I know (e.g. Tiff) had it not been for your influence. You’ve been with me through every struggle and helped me up even when you couldn’t have know you were doing it. And I thank you and love you for it.
Cuz, I can say, without a doubt, you’re my favorite cousin… even when we don’t see eye to eye, we understand each other, you know? I get you, in a way only family can get family. And I’m always going to be here for you and support you and try to help you because I want the best for you… not just because I’m your kuya, or you’re my cousin… but because you deserve it… you deserve the best because of who you are and who your family raised you to be… an incredibly strong, independent, intelligent, talented, kind, loving woman… I could go on, and it would be hella sappy, and I know those attributes sound like bullshit… but trust me cuz, I know it and your family and your friends know it… it’s the truth.
Finally, I wanted to let you know… I admire you… for your strength, your wisdom, your responsibility and your talent… your fucking talent. You have an amazing gift that I know Lolo Daddy would’ve been proud of and was proud of. You were his favorite (just like I know I’m Lola’s favorite), and I know that because the person you are, your strength and talent and humility and humour and hardheadedness… were all his. You remind me of him, and in some way I think you remind all our family of him… you have that command, even if you don’t use it or see it yourself…
I know I don’t tell you this kind of shit often, because it’s weird… but I really do love and appreciate you Cuz. Happy 19th :)
