Chezka's Prom

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Chezka's Prom

L' Fisher Hotel

May 04, 2024

Tonight felt more than just a celebration of a high school milestone—it felt like a soft, silent turning of a page. Writing this now, I can't help but feel sentimental, for three reasons:

  1. Chezka is blossoming into a young lady.

  2. I’m growing older with every passing moment.

  3. And deep down, I miss feeling young, wild, and free.

Chezka is my sister—just a few years younger, but it feels like we’ve lived lifetimes together already. To our family, she’s “Champ” or “Industrious”—nicknames from our Lolo Brian that perfectly capture her drive and determination. But to me, she’s “Kax,” “Kaxie,” sometimes “Pokie”—the playful names I call my best friend, my partner-in-crime, my little big inspiration.

Yes, she can be stubborn, moody, and quick to snap, but I get it. I understand her. I see her. And I want her to know this: no matter how life shifts or how far we both go, I will always have her back. Through celebrations or heartbreaks, through wins or failures—I'll be here, cheering her on, grounding her when she needs it, and walking beside her, just like I did tonight.

I was so excited for this day that I barely slept the night before. Even after multiple fittings, I still found myself worrying about her dress, hoping everything would be perfect. And when I finally saw her walk out, glowing in that gown, it hit me—she’s not a little girl anymore. Time really is slipping by.

Tonight reminded me that I’ve crossed over. I’m no longer the girl in a gown heading to prom with classmates—I’m now the one zipping up someone else’s dress, fixing their hair, calming their nerves, and proudly watching from the sidelines. I saw familiar faces too—former classmates doing the same for their younger siblings. We’ve grown up. Somehow, we all have.

And while I’m still young, life feels heavier now. I carry more—dreams, responsibilities, and promises I made to myself and my family. The “young, wild, and free” version of me still exists, but she shows up less often now. Maybe because I’m learning that freedom isn’t always about fun or recklessness—but about choosing what matters most and being at peace with it.

Time, I’ve realized, is the most precious luxury. It doesn’t come back. It only moves forward—and what we’re left with are memories. And tonight? Tonight is a memory I’ll hold onto for a long, long time.

To my dearest Kax,
I’m endlessly proud of you.
You are growing into someone so beautiful, so strong, so full of light.
And I’ll always be right here—your safe place, your loudest cheerleader, your forever Manang. 💖












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