- The Gift of 2024: A Year of Challenges, Growth, Milestones, and Gratitude
Hey there đ, itâs Perseus Luna.
As the year comes to a close and the festive lights glow a little brighter, Iâve been taking a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey that 2024 has been. It wasnât without its challenges – the road was bumpy, the responsibilities kept piling up, and there were moments when I felt stretched thin. But you know what? Every challenge brought growth, every burden carried purpose, and every step forward was wrapped in gratitude.
Looking back, here are some of the highlights that made this year unforgettable:
đ Winning Mister Philippine Youth Tourism 2024 (March)
Winning this title was something I honestly didnât expect. Just weeks before the coronation night, our family faced an unexpected emergency. I found myself managing everything alone here in the Philippines while my immediate family was thousands of miles away. Stepping on that stage amidst all the challenges felt surreal. But in that moment, I realized that resilience isnât about having it all figured out – itâs about showing up anyway.
đ Venturing into New Opportunities
This year, Iâve been fortunate to cross paths with incredible people who believed in me and saw potential where I didnât. They shared ideas, gave advice, and opened doors I never thought possible. Sometimes, all it takes is someone seeing something in you that you havenât yet seen in yourself.
đ Exploring New Places and Cultures
Month after month, I found myself in places I had never been before. Each trip, whether for work or leisure, left me with memories, new perspectives, and stories to tell. One standout experience was being invited to Basilan – a place rich in culture, beauty, and history. It was eye-opening, and it reminded me of the incredible diversity of our country.
đ Taking My Mom on Her First International Birthday Date (August)
This one? Extra special. My mom spent most of her life focused on us, her career, and building a life for our family. She never really took the time to explore much beyond those responsibilities. Seeing her light up as we celebrated her birthday on a date abroad for the first time? Thatâs a memory Iâll keep close to my heart for a long time.
đ Celebrating My Birthday in Osaka (September)
Birthdays have always been about simple celebrations at home or dining out with close friends. But this year was different. I got to spend my birthday in Osaka, Japan, with my mom right by my side. Exploring new streets, trying new food, and creating memories – I didn’t realize just how special this birthday would feel until it happened.
đ Becoming a When In Rizal Ambassador [WIRkada] (October)
Out of 99 applicants, we were narrowed down, step by step, through fun shoots, character profiling, and content creation assessments. Iâm beyond honored to have been chosen as one of the final 4 When In Rizal ambassadors – WIRkada. Being part of this initiative allows me to showcase the best of Rizal – its culture, its people, and its beauty.
đ¤ Serving as a Leader in Rotary Club of Antipolo City (July / December)
Becoming part of the Board of Directors earlier this year was already an honor. But being elected as President Nominee set to serve as President for Rotary Year 2026 – 2027 was something I never saw coming. Rotary has become a space where I can channel my passion for service, and Iâm excited about the projects and opportunities ahead.
đ Serving as a National Chair of International Affairs Group
Working alongside visionary leaders in International Affairs Group has been an enriching experience. Together, weâve been striving to strengthen our countryâs representation on the international stage. The collaborations, the partnerships, and the shared goals – itâs been nothing short of inspiring.
â¤ď¸ Cherishing Relationships with Loved Ones
Amidst all the milestones and achievements, this one remains the most important. Family, relatives, and friends are the âWHYâ behind everything I do. Their love, support, and encouragement are the foundation that keeps me grounded no matter how high I climb.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Every experience, whether challenging or rewarding, has shaped me into who I am today. 2024 was not just a year – it was a collection of stories, lessons, and blessings.
As we welcome 2025, Iâm stepping into it with:
đ Gratitude for the past
đĽłÂ Excitement for the present
â Courage for the future
To everyone whoâs been part of this year – THANK YOU đđťââď¸. To those reading this now – I hope your 2025 is filled with joy, growth, and endless possibilities.
Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year! đâ¨
Hereâs to making the next year even more meaningful – together.
- A Big Honor: Becoming the President Nominee of Rotary Club of Antipolo City
Hey there đ, itâs Perseus Luna.
December 13, 2024, wasnât just any Friday – it was our Rotary Club of Antipolo City Magical Christmas Party and, unexpectedly, one of the most memorable nights of my Rotary journey so far.
For those who might not know, Rotary Clubs bring together people from all walks of life – people who want to make a difference in their communities, the world, and even in themselves. At its heart, Rotary is a club driven by service and meaningful connections.
The Election Night
Part of our Christmas program was the election for President Nominee. Unlike traditional elections where you immediately step into a role, Rotaryâs structure allows a President Nominee 18 months to prepare before taking on the responsibility of Presidency.
Now, I knew my candidacy was unopposed, but that didnât mean I was guaranteed the position. I still needed to secure the majority approval from our members. And let me tell you – I was nervous.
I couldnât help but think about the other incredible leaders in our club – individuals with so much experience and wisdom. People Iâve admired and looked up to. Part of me wondered if I was ready to stand alongside them in such a significant role.
But deep down, I also felt a quiet sense of trust in myself. When given a responsibility, Iâve always made it a point to show up, give my best, and deliver with heart.
The Moment That Stuck With Me
As the ballots were being counted, Iâll admit – I was quiet but my heart was racing. I braced myself for the possibility of hearing an abstention or two. After all, itâs normal.
But then came the announcement:Â no abstentions, full support.
It hit me in waves – relief, gratitude, and humility all at once. Being one of the youngest members in the club and still receiving unanimous support from people I respect so much? Itâs a feeling Iâll carry with me for a long time.
18 Months and Counting
Now, I have about 18 months to prepare before officially stepping into the role of President in July 2026. And honestly? Iâm excited.
This isnât just a title or a position – itâs a responsibility to serve, to lead, and to continue the legacy of meaningful projects and impactful initiatives that our club is known for.
Iâm looking forward to learning, planning, and growing alongside my fellow Rotarians. I want to bring fresh ideas to the table while honoring the traditions and foundations that have made our club what it is today.
To everyone who placed their trust in me – thank you. Truly. And to you, reading this right now, I hope youâll stick around and join me on this journey as we strive to create positive change, one project at a time.
To making a difference together!Â