This Is What Thirty Looks Like

Artwork by Kate Ylagan

This is what thirty looks like -

Standing up every fifteen minutes or so because your back is hurting from sitting that long,

Mentioning all of the names of your siblings because you can't seem to remember and call out the right one,

Dozing off while trying to catch up on some series because you never seem to get a decent sleep during the weekdays.

This is what thirty looks like -

Getting tipsy after two bottles of beer when the party just got started,

Attending weddings after weddings when your only stable relationships are with a few friends, your work, or your couch,

Spacing out in pointless conversations when all you can think about is how to finish all the work lined up for the day before the clock strikes five.

This is what thirty looks like -

Brushing up on some of your bookkeeping skills from school to make sure that the bills are taken cared of,

Admiring and liking your friends' travel photos to somehow satiate your wanderlust,

Watching five-minute instructional videos to save some cash as you DIY.

This is what thirty looks like -

Putting some of your dreams on hold to focus on what is badly needed now but still listing big goals down in your bucket list,

Taking the high road all the time and avoiding arguments but still feeling the urge to be vindicated,

Accepting who you are, crow's feet and all, but still seeking validation from others somehow,

Making a decision good enough without the need for you to explain yourself but still try to make people understand why,

Knowing your worth and what you cannot and will not tolerate but still allow people to hurt you and leave you scarred,

Standing strong with your gameface on even in your worst days but still crumble when you thought no one is looking.

This is what my thirty looks like.

RM

To see more of Kate Ylagan's works, visit her Facebook page Obra ni Keyt.