The Magnolia Tree

The wind blows past my ear, leaving a tiny tickle against my skin. It’s April and everywhere else, it’s a sign for the birth of Spring. For one, I loved Spring during my time in Seoul. It reminded me not of the beautiful and fleeting Cherry Blossom trees, but the single pink Magnolia tree that bloomed across my bedroom window.

How I wish to see the gorgeous petals and blooms of Magnolias once again, taking me back to the times when I was young, naive and filled with a curious heart. The Magnolia tree, in full bloom, unfurls its cuplike petals— sturdy yet graceful. As if nothing can stain it’s being. As if nothing can hurt me.

I remember the days I used to stare at the single tree, billowing in the wind while it stands lonely yet radiating with so much energy that it was truly never alone.

The sturdy stems connecting each flower to the branch. As I watch the wind blow, leaves rustle yet the Magnolia flowers never waver. It swayed with the wind, like it’s a part of it but never letting it detach them from the branches. Such endurance.

White petals blend into pink shades that symbolizes purity. Reminds me to avoid things that stain your mind, body and emotions. Do not let things leave scars on your being. Heal when you must. Associate yourself with things that make you worthy. Being the real you: pure and unwavering is the best course of life.

Till then,

Bridgerton Review

"Dear reader, if there is a scandal, I shall uncover it." — Lady Whistledown

 

I find myself tossing an odd sentence here and there laced in British accent towards my boyfriend the past week after an obsessive binge-watching session of Bridgerton. If you’ve never heard of Bridgerton, have you been on social media?

Bridgerton is Netflix’s hottest drama which reminds you of a Regency era Gossip Girl. With Julie Andrews narrating throughout the show as the Lady Whistledown, I felt as if I was thrown into the 1800s— life of sparkling glamour, delicious tea and scathing gossips.

The series follows the story of the Bridgertons— a powerful and prestigious family where their eldest daughter was set for a society debut in London’s marriage market. With subplots of other families members and also other prestigious families, Bridgerton is filled with so much story of wealth, lust and betrayal. All reported by an anonymous, Lady Whistledown.

Who is Lady Whistledown exactly? She has eyes and ears everywhere. Bridgerton is indeed a period piece infused with a modern charm.

Intricate dresses, beautiful music and graceful acting caught my attention. For most times, I was relishing in its fancy costumes, hairdo and jewellery. But it doesn’t make me forget about the elegant architecture, tea spreads and most of all, their lifestyle in the movie.

Lavish and perfect. Down to the little details on the teapots, I am absolutely in love with its aesthetic.

The storyline was easy to follow, it keeps you on your toes for what’s next to happen and absolutely unpredictable. I mean, when was the last time I’ve enjoyed an English tv show without quitting halfway through? Bridgerton is beautiful with a lustful storyline and cheap gossip— just what I was expecting to fill my angsty-dramatic soul.

If escaping your humdrum life after work is what you need: grab a glass of wine and settle down with an episode of Bridgerton, you’ll find yourself whisked away into a story of glamour and romance.

Rating: 9/10

Word of the year: Celebrate

I believe that I am late for a new year post, but it is never too late for anything.

To start off a new year, 2021— I believe that this year will be filled with great things once again. As I'm writing this from the awkward comfort of my desk (I usually write on my bed), I shall make this small piece of writing quick before my back decides to sore.

2021 will be a year where I find time to heal and soothe my mind + soul. A year where I want to experience an abundance of happiness from all aspects in life.

This year, I want to celebrate. My word: celebrate. Celebrate the little things in life. Celebrate the good and the bad, for there is always a silver lining.

Celebration will be my attitude no matter what life brings.

A year of achievements, 2020.

Today’s a rare occasion, for I am writing this post for myself. To remind me of the tough times I have stayed strong, braved through the stormy seas. Or to remind me of the sweet times I’ve tasted, walking gently past a luscious field of wildflowers.

2020 may be a stagnant year for some— but for me, it was a year filled with lessons, courage, and fulfilment. It came as a surprise when I was counting my achievements this year. My word of the year— bloom, resonated so well with my growth throughout this year. In a way, I felt like the Universe knew I was ready to bloom and now is the right time.

A week of reflection before 2020 comes to a close.

Growth, trust and many little nasties.

I sat across the window, zoning out as my eyes stayed unfocused to the blur of images in front of me. On a quiet afternoon, birds rarely chirp but occasionally I can hear the flutter of wings beating against the wind. Strong yet sturdy wings. I was reminded of a quote I came across some time ago.

“In order to see birds it is necessary to become a part of the silence.”
― Robert Lynd

A lesson: Life goes on

It’s been a while since I last sat down to write— of the things that come to my mind. I guess I was too afraid of what lingers within my thoughts. They’re best kept in a box because opening them would be like unleashing the monsters from Pandora’s box.

I will not write long for this post, but just a gentle reminder to grace anyone who has come across this little gift today.

“In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on.”
― Robert Frost

It was just happenstance when I came across this quote. And like magic, all my stress, burden and worries seem to feel okay. Life goes on, truly. Today you may lose yourself in places no one has threaded on before but tomorrow you may find pieces of yourself laying around.

No matter how bad of a day you’re having, remember that there are only 24 hours in a day— and a new day starts. A new cycle in life, because life goes on. You’ll not repeat the same bad day over and over again.