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Chapter 5: Roots to Responsibility

Early adulthood is the most exciting as well as very overwhelming phase of life. It is the time to pursue dreams, build on new habits, form deep relationships, and learn how to balance everything that comes along. Each day brings something new to learn and something fresh to face. For most of them, it would be their first experience of true independence. Let's meet Roma. At 22, she is stepping into this new stage of life with curiosity and determination, ready to see where life will take her. She is figuring out what making your own choices means and building a path that feels right for herself. Roma’s days are a mix of career goals, friendships, family duties, and personal dreams. Her story is filled with the highs and lows of early adulthood—the thrill, the pressure, and the quiet moments of reflection. As she moves through this journey, Roma shows us what it’s like to take on adulthood, one step at a time. For Roma, entering adulthood has been eye-opening. Physically, she’s noticed some big changes. Her energy levels aren’t the same, and stress often causes her to lose weight. To keep healthy, she focuses on good sleep, eating well, and staying active with daily walks and runs to work. Yet, even early on, she’s finding that keeping up with these changes isn’t always easy. Mentally, Roma feels her thinking has matured. Her decision-making has improved, though she still learns from mistakes. While she once handled problems quickly, now she takes her time to think things over. For Roma, her aims and career life now matter, and time management will be really important in making a balance between work and personal growth. And then, quite surprisingly, she suffers a small lapse of memory each now and then, something that she did not foresee at all. Her social and emotional life too has changed. Work takes up more of her time, so she has fewer chances to spend with family and friends. For now, she’s focused on becoming financially stable and advancing her career. She hopes to work abroad someday to better support her family. Roma is more private with her feelings, especially when things are hard, and her way to cope with stress is simple but effective: sleep, good food, and staying focused on her goals. Balancing work, relationships, and self-care hasn’t been easy, especially with setbacks like job rejections. Roma finds balance through prayer, self-love, and trusting herself to keep going. Right now, she’d rate her career satisfaction at a 4 out of 10, as financial stability is still a goal she’s working toward. But she’s proud of her achievements and the lessons she’s learned. Being the eldest in her family brings its own set of responsibilities, and meeting society’s expectations adds extra pressure. But Roma handles it all by giving her best and relying on everything she’s learned so far. Roma’s journey through early adulthood has been full of surprises, lessons, and moments of growth. It isn’t perfect, but each step is helping her build a stronger foundation for the future.

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Chapter 4: Leap to Maturity

It is during this time of adolescence when it's very often referred to as the storm before the calm, a time when the world seems to go by fast around one's head. Your body changes, your mind stretches, and emotions become unpredictable as never before. This is also the time for discoveries and explorations.

Let's meet Liit, an 18-year-old male going through his adolescence. He was nicknamed "Liit" because when he was little, he was a bit short among the family, but as he grew older and puberty hit, his nickname was now an ironic thing to say, since he is now the tallest person in the family.

Puberty didn’t just change his height, though. His voice dropped, facial hair began to grow, and acne made frequent appearances. He also started to notice body odour, something he never had to deal with before. But the biggest change came not from his body but from within. Liit became more aware of what others thought of him. Before, he didn’t care at all about what people said, but now he started to second-guess everything he said and waited for others to speak first. He began overthinking everything. Liit became conscious of what people thought of him. Before, he didn't care at all about what others said, but now he began to second-guess every word coming out of his mouth and just waited for others to say it first. He started to overthink. Another change was how sentimental he became. Liit used to throw things away without thinking, but now even small notes and old cards mattered to him. He never thought he'd care much for such small things, yet life taught him that it is the smallest things that matter sometimes. School was burdened with stress and pressure for him. There are times that he felt the difficulty in his mind, which made it very hard to focus on anything. He learnt that it was perfectly all right to take his time. He would often go to a quiet space from where he could clear out his mind, breathe, and relax; well, things would get better, and he would get focused again. He learnt that forgiveness and love for others are important things. Though life is not so easy sometimes, he learnt to be a positive thinker and face challenges with a new attitude. He does not flee from problems but confronts them head-on. He looks forward to travelling and starting his own business. He saves money, plans, and prepares for such goals. And what he is most proud of, learning to trust and forgive himself. Mistakes that he used to call a failure now help him grow and shape who he is. Liit has learned through everything that change is part of life. Change is one thing; learning to accept who you are with all your flaws is the only way to live life long and happy. If you're trying to change as well, keep in mind: growth is beautiful, and every step forward is part of your journey.

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Chapter 3: From Playground to Classroom

Generally, middle and late childhood lasts from ages 6 to 12. This is a very important time in a child's life. During these years, kids grow and change a lot in different ways-physically, mentally, and emotionally. They become more independent, learn to think better, and build stronger friendships with others. This is the time they seek out things they like and get better at skills to help them determine who they are. Furthermore, this is the period when, normally, the easy going days of early childhood have elapsed and the more systematic experiences of growing up begin. It then contributes to helping parents and teachers in supporting the child in growing as they learn during this stage. Jahara is a very inquisitive and independent child. At nine, she loves sports, and is also good at drawing, which means she enjoys doing all the things she tries her hand at. Let's see what exactly her daily schedule is like, full of learning and important lessons. With the sun up, Jahara wakes up full of energy. She loves playing sports and riding her bike, zooming around with the wind in her hair. She tries to show independence when she maintains her personal hygiene without asking for Mommy Kim's help, not even in making her own snacks. Mommy Kim feels proud because Jahara learns to do things on her own. School days are busy and fun for Jahara. She always ends the day with good grades and wins in science, where she curiously shines. She finishes homework speedily, and she enjoys solving puzzles. Whenever she feels confused, she would just ask her Mommy Kim how or why things happen. But not everything is easy for Jahara. Like many kids, she has some problem dealing with friends. She is very choosy about whom to spend her precious time with, but then some people bully her around, which really hurts her. When she can't take it anymore, Jahara fights back. She argues back or even pushes them back at the bullies if they actually crossed that line. Mommy Kim notices when Jahara is emotionally frustrated, but still keeps her space and lets the child feel on her own; sometimes, Jahara just needs space. By the end of the day, Jahara is done with her homework, and then she has her playtime or family time. She mostly leads the group in school projects, confidence that enables her to help her peers out. Such a smile gleams on Mommy's face as she watches Jahara grow into a strong girl with big dreams. The more we learn how to embrace independence and question the world around us, the more mature we become. Every difficulty shapes the person we are; thus, it's necessary to work through them while still allowing ourselves and others to feel and process emotions.

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Chapter 2: Building Foundations

Raising a child in the early years is a beautiful yet challenging journey for any mom. For this kind of a phase, the role of a mother is deeply crucial in determining her child's growth and development with character. All days are explorations around them and learning life's essential skills. The balancing act of nurturing care with teaching independence makes for the mom a tough tightrope to walk through these moments of joy and curiosity, sometimes frustration-all along building a strong relation with her child. And it all makes sense in moments of laughter, love, and sometimes chaos.

Raising Antot becomes one of Mommy Kim's hardest challenges in life when she strives hard to maintain her strength to help the boy grow during various moments of his life. She reflects on so many changes she has encountered with Antot. He is simply love to roam and always gives the impression to be ready to run, jump, and climb - indoors as much as outdoors. Antot is now more independent. He feeds himself using a spoon and draws using crayons. He does not ask to have his shoes and jacket on his body. He also knew how to use the toilet by himself, although whenever he needs light in the bathroom, he would seek the mother's help and claims Mommy Kim was asleep when she discovered that Antot uses a chair to reach the switch. She has recently become aware that Antot has indeed lost some weight and was bothered by this. For sure, she only wants to feed him healthy foods and snacks to ensure that he gets the right amount of nutrients for growth. Mommy Kim is very serious about this part of her life, being extremely careful about the good balance work and home life can give her to ensure the proper development of Antot. When things get tough, she is all too happy as a clam to see him grow. She is very proud that he distinguishes what is right from wrong and tries to teach him what is right. Calmly talking to him, she teaches him something about the world. Antot maintains a good routine for self-care. He can feed himself most meals but still requires help in serving food to himself. Generally, at night, he sleeps well with only one night where he stayed awake the whole night. Antot still takes an afternoon nap, which helps keep him energetic enough for playtime. He is learning well. He can follow simple instructions. He recognizes colors and shapes. He can count up to seven. He loves storytime, though he only scans the pages of books. He will solve simple puzzles and stack blocks, which shows how he solves simple problems. Antot likes to play at or with other children; however, he is selective about whom he wants to play with. He is a sweet boy who likes to stay away from children, sometimes, hurting him at times. At this very age while learning, a smile could mean he enjoyed the play very much and nearly all exhibit excitement. He learns how to share his toys; he is relatively generous to the friends he likes rather than to those whom he dislikes. Antot also tends to ask Mommy Kim's approval during many of the activities, which shows that he would want to connect to her. Despite facing many challenges, Mommy Kim tries to balance her time with her son. Financial stress can be very challenging, but taking him swimming and playing in the water is one way she creates happy moments for them. Such times are always fulfilling, and both of them enjoy these activities. While Mommy Kim agonizes over the difficulties of raising the little man, this stage is also loaded with its own benefits. She loves seeing Antot grow into a wonderful boy; each day brings new milestones. It makes her proud that he can distinguish between right and wrong; educating him in good values is very important and reminds her to take calm conversations to help better understand the world around. Mommy Kim encouraged Antot to be independent and let him roam around with safety. Actually, she noticed that a little part of him changed about being confident in his stand and now how he is standing up for what he wants. She wishes that the little boy will be constant in growing up being kind and considerate, too. She's looking forward to the future where Antot will do well in school and achieve new things, and she keeps her hopes high of him. She's also precious in those moments even when times get tough, because it's her child's energy. The best thing about Antot is seeing him grow into a healthy and well-balanced person. She and her son are exerting and doing the best they can, so she believes that they're in the right path.

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Chapter 1: Early Days of Motherhood

Becoming a mother is a beautiful but challenging experience, mostly during the initial few months when both mom and baby are still adjusting to their new life together. Mommy Lealyn is one mother who is in this exciting yet mostly wearisome early day with her 2-month-old baby boy.

Now two months old, her baby boy has begun showing traces of development in that he is able to move his head from side to side, loves sucking his little hands, and is even beginning to follow things with his eyes, giving sweet little smiles when something catches his attention.

Mommy Lealyn also noticed that her baby gets more active. He can hold on, leans on some things within his reach and may throw them in an instance of being frustrated or upset. His favorite? A cuddly stuffed toy that always seems to catch his attention.

She proudly shares how fast her baby is growing: He had gained weight and grown taller compared to the time he was born, but amidst the hustle of motherhood, Lealyn has confessed she forgot to jot down the exact numbers during their last visit to the clinic.

Another thing that also amazes Lealyn is when her baby's eyes light up every time he hears a sound or sees movement in front of him. He carefully follows it with his gaze and even tries to answer when someone speaks with him.

As time goes by, Lealyn notices that her little boy is now recognizing familiar faces, mainly his family. When it is a new person who holds him, he tends to cry, but when it is people he knows, like a family member, he responds with a smile. Is it not amazing how early babies can form attachments and create bonds with those whom they can most trust?.

Lealyn believes in talking with her baby every day; she thinks that this way he learns more quickly. One day, while cooking, she left him for some time, and he cried loudly. As soon as Lealyn picked him up, he stopped crying. This simple moment showed her that even in the youngest stage of a baby's life, babies know how to express emotions and show what they want or need.

Like many new moms, Lealyn has also been sleepless for many nights. She says that even at times, while tired, she just can't sleep as her mind is occupied with her baby, especially when he appears to be uncomfortable. This fear, I assume many moms have: that the baby might catch a cold or fall sick. All these stresses, besides sleepless nights, drain her; yet she is tough, for she knows it is a phase that will pass.

Yet even amidst this all, Lealyn remains hopeful and prayerful. Drawing strength from her family and partner, which emotionally and mentally brace her at tough times, she says nothing is as close to her heart as keeping her baby happy and healthy. But for now, she will enjoy the little man's growth, waiting for more smiles and milestones, like rolling over.

Motherhood is a rollercoaster, especially within the first months, with ups and downs of pure joy, deep worries, and so much love. The story of Lealyn is a witness to the strength and resilience of mothers through good and bad times of taking care of their small loves.

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Prologue: Journey to Motherhood

We all begin our journey into the world we live in from one unique, warm space called the womb of our mother. For nine months, this is our world, nurturing us as we grow and get ready to explore the outside. Mommy Biverlyn is one of those amazing mothers who go through a number of changes, including challenges, for the healthy start of her baby. Here is a closer look at her journey as she approaches her third trimester:. Mommy Biverlyn has been experiencing both physical and emotional changes throughout her pregnancy. These days, she said she's been experiencing a lot of stress. With her husband trying to work outside their home, she had to take sole responsibility for the elder child and household chores. All these added responsibilities sometimes really overwhelm her but at the same time strengthen Biverlyn. One of the noticeable changes in Biverlyn is at her pelvic area. The discomfort and unease of having the baby inside kicking have been bothering her, yet she has learned to put up with these disturbed feelings. When the pain becomes insupportable, relief comes from the sister through gentle massages. On the emotional level, Biverlyn's journey has seen its seesaws. While the early pregnancy was rather smooth, the illness of her eldest child has been adding to the stress. Biverlyn realizes the implications of stress on her baby; as such, she tries to be a cheerful disposition and maintain her stress level at a minimum. She is also getting ready for the baby, putting everything in order. She has gathered some things for the baby, and she has washed and ironed some of her oldest child's clothes to use again with this baby. For the future, Biverlyn wishes to deliver healthily. Because of their economic status, she hopes for a more affordable delivery in a Lying-In clinic. Since the gender of her baby is still in suspense, she has not yet chosen a name. Biverlyn's husband has been with her throughout the pregnancy, he was understanding of her mood swings and gave necessary support whenever in need. His presence means a lot more than anything during this period. She said, "My faith keeps me going," in light of her pregnancy challenges. Comforted with deep faith in God, she felt helped in preparation for the birth. Despite uncertainty about the birth, Biverlyn somehow manages this financial constraint. Her faith and her family support her through this exciting yet transformational time.

Pregnancy is that time of your life when you are excited, anticipating, and changing. It is one of those very few, special moments in a woman's life when amazing changes take place in her body to nurture and support new life. From the early stages of morning sickness to the final weeks of feeling the kick of the baby, each phase has its challenges and bits of joys. The entire journey is a saga of strength in women as they get ready to welcome the little one in their arms with lots of love and care.