A Decade-Old Memory in My Bag: Reflections on VIP Shopping Cards, Payday Joys, and Life’s Changing Seasons

Hello Hive Family! I’m writing this blog on the spot before going to bed, letting my thoughts flow freely as I reflect on a small but meaningful discovery tonight.

As I was checking my old bag recently, I stumbled upon two pieces of VIP shopping cards: Just Gift and Get Laud. To my surprise, they’re already a decade old! Holding them brought back a rush of memories, those days when payday meant treating myself, even with simple purchases.

I remember the excitement of swiping those cards, enjoying discounts, and feeling a little spark of happiness knowing I could buy something for myself. It didn’t have to be expensive; the joy was in the act of rewarding myself for hard work. Those cards were more than plastic. They symbolized a season of carefree spending and small indulgences.

Fast forward to today, life feels very different. I rarely shop anymore, not because I don’t want to, but because financial realities weigh heavily on me. As the sole breadwinner, I’ve been carrying the responsibility of supporting my family while managing mountains of loans that began when my father passed away six months ago.

The contrast between then and now is striking. Those cards remind me of a time when I could afford little joys without worry. Now, every peso feels accounted for, every decision tied to responsibility. Yet, even in this season, I find meaning in reflection—acknowledging both the happy memories and the challenges that shape me today.

Thank you, my Hive Friends, for being here to read my reflections. Writing this before bedtime feels like sharing a piece of my heart with you all. Life changes, but memories like these remind me of resilience, gratitude, and the importance of community.