# data[].attributes.body
by Raissa Neri

# data[].attributes.body
Post the last picture you have of yourself before the pandemic started.

# data[].attributes.body
Post a picture of you now/ a picture taken within the last 7 days.

# data[].attributes.body
Looking at both pictures, write about the physical changes you observed.

I honestly believe I appeared more laid back in my pre-pandemic photo, and I did have chubbier cheeks since I used to eat a lot. Physically, I would describe myself as childlike back then, with my natural dark hair and no makeup face, and I also observed my skin tone was a little deeper than it is currently.

In my most recent photos, I can see myself as a woman. With my long blonde hair, I appear more sophisticated and reserved, and I already wear makeup almost all of the time. I seem a lot more youthful and well-cared for, especially now that I'm better groomed and well-dressed. Likewise, my complexion appears to be a lot paler in person, especially given that I don't get to see the sun as much as I used to.

# data[].attributes.body
Write about what you think changed in your way of thinking or your character during this pandemic.

Back then, I used to go out and about with my insights. I used to rant a lot, say a lot, and do a lot because I expected a lot of people to see or hear it. In short, I used to be so transparent about everything that I became careless about every little thing about me, giving rise to yet more issues and devastating consequences.

I used to wrestle with my emotions, switching back and forth in different phases, but it makes me so proud that I can already adjust to whatever situation I'm in. I've also understood that being strong does not need you to be cold-hearted and oblivious to everything. You just have to be extra kind with yourself to assess how much you can accomplish and how much you can bear. That, I feel, is the foundation of being a strong individual: remaining kind and centered, and it is because of such that I am gifted with such a beautiful heart. 💖

I managed to give myself an opportunity to improve in the last two years. I took the gamble of not remaining the same as before, and it made a huge difference on me. My life grew so much more tranquil once I learnt never to turn my back on myself. I've learnt that if you can accept yourself, honor yourself, and be pleased with yourself and what you do, it doesn't matter if other people can't. You don't have to deal with other people if you can deal with yourself. 🌱

# data[].attributes.body
Post a picture of someone you admire the most, an idol, or an inspiration.

# data[].attributes.body
What is something about that person that you would like to imitate?

I had the opportunity to virtually meet Kitchie Nadal, an OPM, alternative rock singer from the 2000s. She revealed to us how much of a rebellious and wrecked person she had been, and how the word of God and her faith completely transformed her, as well as how she managed to help others change their ways.

One value I admire in her is her commitment to move and change direction. Yes, change is constant, and we must seize every opportunity that comes our way, no matter how tantalizing. Because we may not realize that it is the only way to save us.

# data[].attributes.body
“Maybe the journey isn’t so much about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about un-becoming everything that isn’t really you, so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place.”