I believe that our identity is largely defined by our values and beliefs, upbringing, families, society and culture, profession, social status, interests and aptitudes, character, associations / clubs / institutions we belong to, the friends and company we keep, our priorities, etc.


Here's where I get to indulge in a little retrospection about what defines me and the important things, values, and people in my life. You'll get to see some pics on the following pages too.


Me
This is as demure-looking as I get!
(Psst! Looks can be deceiving! :P)
(November 2000).

My close friends have all commented that despite all the misfortunes that came my way in the tumultous period lasting from 1996 till early-2000 (ie. finally leaving my ex-boyfriend after a 13-yr relationship; losing my job and not being able to find another because of the recession; an operation; losing my savings; having to give up my apartment, my cats, and a lot of my possessions; losing my identity and confidence; prolonged depression), I have managed to rise above the trials and have emerged a stronger, more confident and 'better' person.

You know what, guys, I could never have recovered without your support. Mom, Michelle, Leslie, Pearlene, Jacqueline and Tricia, thank you for standing by me all this while without ever giving up hope on me. :) I do know that at times, I was a great pain, burden and sorry mess to be with but thanks for not avoiding me ever. You have all made a big difference in my life and the way I turned out. Ron, Claron, PJ, Lucia, Ed, I am also very grateful to y'all. :) You are all angels in my life, no less. A heartfelt THANK YOU!!


Me
Taken at an IRC friend's backyard pool.
Yup! I travelled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA, all by myself,
enduring a 24+ hr flight, to meet four IRC friends.
(May 1997).



Oh, SHUT UP! I've heard enough! Bring me outta here, please!
How would I describe myself? 1