A Cousin's Visit and the Joy of Paying It Forward

There’s something fulfilling about giving, especially when you’re giving back. When I was younger, I didn’t always understand why our relatives would treat us, spoil us, or give us “just because” money for school or hobbies. I didn't know their drive to give willingly, without asking for anything in return.

Now I get it.

It’s not about showing off.

It’s about quietly filling someone’s cup the way others once filled yours.

My two cousins recently visited the city from La Union. Their dad, my uncle, had work in Taguig for a month, so he brought them along. I had just come back from a family trip when I promised to tour them around. I could see how excited they were to finally set foot in a place they’d only heard stories about.

I could imagine the feeling. I get the same thrill whenever I visit a new place. So this time, I wanted to give them that experience. Even if I was still tired from our own trip, I cleared my weekend just for them.

When we were younger, my sister and I were often taken on trips by our relatives. Our parents were always working, so whenever someone offered to bring us along for a little getaway or mall day, we’d go. I didn’t fully realize it then, but those small acts meant so much. Back then, I didn’t realize they were doing more than just taking us out.

Now, I was the one doing the inviting. I didn’t mind that they wanted to go to BGC for instagrammable pictures. I knew what it was like to want to experience something new, even if it’s just for a good photo. So I became their personal tour guide for the day.

_{the Jordan Store}

We walked around BGC while I gave them trivia and stories about the area. I’ve done this tour many times for my other cousins and friends from outside the city. But every time feels new when you’re seeing it through someone else’s eyes.

The tall buildings amazed them. Maybe they are simple sights to some, for someone like me, but to them, it was a scene from a whole different world. They don’t get views like that often in the province.

I brought up the Jordan store, knowing they’d be interested because they both play basketball back in the province and are pretty good at it too. When I asked if they wanted a photo there, they hesitated. Maybe they were shy. I offered my phone and DJI and told them I’d just send the photos later. They smiled, so I think that helped. I wanted them to remember their first visit here.

Then came the wall. You know, the one everyone uses for Instagram. They asked for a picture there. When they asked for a photo, I teased them a bit and asked 'Here? Are you sure?' They just giggled and nodded. Of all the beautiful spots, they chose the wall. I didn’t question it further. I took their photos and made sure they looked good in every one. If it makes them happy, then it makes me happy too.

We passed by what we call the Bistro area because it's full of the restaurants from the Bistro group. I asked if they wanted to eat anywhere but they just smiled. Maybe they were shy. We were about to get drinks at Bubu, but my younger sister texted she was on the way. She had just gotten off from work and would meet us before watching a movie.

We hadn’t bought movie tickets yet either. There was just so much to see in so little time, and my cousins had to head back to La Union after dinner. Still, we tried to fit in as much as we could. We even caught a small event at Central Square, where a band was playing and a Last of Us booth was set up.

_{📍 Bonifacio Global City Central Square}

I booked a Grab car to Venice Grand Canal Mall next. It’s another must-see, especially for first-timers. While waiting for my sister to arrive, I let them take more photos again using my phone and explored the place together.

_{📍 Venice Grand Canal Mall}

We weren't allowed to watch the Final Destination with my youngest sister because she's just 12. We talked about maybe trying bowling or archery so I took photos of those spots too, just in case we return.

When my sister arrived, we had dinner. I told them to order anything they liked. It was my treat. I was glad they were finally comfortable enough to tell me what they wanted.

We talked about school. They’re doing well, and I felt proud. Our dad always reminded us to encourage our younger cousins, especially when it comes to studying. Being one of the eldest in the family, we wanted not just to set an example but to be someone they could count on.

After dinner, my sister bought them clothes, and I gave them some allowance for school. I saw the smiles on their faces. They're not fancy but they're all from the heart.

That night, on our way home, I thought about all the times my relatives helped me when I was younger. They bought me meals, brought me along on trips, and handed me money for school and for my hobbies. They supported me all the way through. Back then, I didn’t really understand why they did it. It just felt nice, you know.

But now? Now I get it.

They weren’t trying to impress us. They weren’t obligated to. They just wanted to. They had enough in their cups and they chose to share it.

And now, I have enough in mine.

We went home tired but satisfied. That kind of full that doesn’t come from food, but from giving. It is something I’m learning to appreciate more now that I’m older.

I appreciate you reading this all the way through. 'Til next time~ Happy weekend! 🤗