Unique Bonds: Differences and Similarities in My Family

The foundation of my family tree lies in its roots, representing the seed that gave life to the branches. Just as roots keep a tree strong and steady, my grandparents give strength and support to our family. On my father’s side, my grandmother, Norita G. Cabaluna, and my grandfather, Remeias O. Cabaluna, are both lively and healthy, and I am truly grateful for that. My grandmother loves to cook, just like my father, and their specialty dishes always bring our family together. My grandfather, on the other hand, is a man of few words, but his actions speak louder than anything—something I see reflected in my father’s quiet yet dependable nature. On my mother’s side, my grandmother, Rosalyn A. Pahulayan, and my grandfather, Rodrigo N. Pahulayan, are also full of life and energy. Unlike my father’s side, my mother’s side enjoys storytelling and conversation. My grandmother, especially, loves sharing funny and heartfelt stories from her youth—something my mother has inherited. While my father expresses his love through actions, my mother is more vocal and affectionate, always offering words of encouragement and warmth. Despite these differences, both sides of my family share a strong and constant love and support for each other.

My parents, who grew from the roots, now serve as the strong branches that give strength and guidance to me and my siblings. My father, Javier G. Cabaluna, is a loving and responsible provider. He is naturally disciplined, always ensuring we have what we need. He’s also reserved, preferring to show his love through actions rather than words. My mother, Delina Cabaluna, is quite the opposite. She is more easygoing, expressive, and always ready to listen. While my father teaches us the value of hard work and responsibility, my mother reminds us to enjoy life and not be afraid to try new things. Despite their differences, both of them serve as the strong branches that support and protect our family. Another thing that connects them is their shared love for dogs. Our family has always loved dogs, and they are very much a part of our lives. Spending time with them, whether playing outside or just sitting together, brings us closer and adds warmth to our home.

At the top of the tree are the fruits, representing the outcome of the love and care passed down from the roots and branches. This is where my siblings and I stand. I have two siblings, Jenielyn P. Cabaluna and Jerlane P. Cabaluna, and I am the middle child. While we all share the same upbringing, our personalities are quite different. My older sibling, Jerlane, is the responsible and practical one. He is naturally organized and prefers stability, always thinking ahead and making sure things are in order. However, despite being practical, Jerlane is also relaxed and easygoing. He has a great sense of humor and enjoys living life to the fullest, often making jokes and helping lighten the mood. My younger sibling, Jenielyn, is the playful and carefree one. She is more expressive and sometimes a bit stubborn, but her lively and spirited nature makes her fun to be around. I find myself somewhere in between—I enjoy exploring new things, but I also value responsibility. I’m not as carefree as Jenielyn, but I’m also not as serious as Jerlane. Despite our differences, we all value family time, enjoy helping each other when needed, and share a strong sense of loyalty.

As a middle child, I feel balanced. I have a strong desire to explore and try new things, just like a tree reaching toward the sunlight to grow. My dream is to become a certified RRT (Registered Radiologic Technologist) and work abroad, exploring new places and learning about different cultures. I’m a bit introverted, but it depends on the people I’m with. One thing I value most is being appreciated and cared for—something I got from my mother. I also love music; I play the piano, which helps me feel calm and peaceful. My dad used to play the guitar when he was younger—he joked that it was to impress girls, but I’m not sure if that’s true! Our family also loves the beach—the soft white sand, the clear blue water—and we always try to spend time there whenever we can. For me, the beach feels like the perfect place to relax and enjoy life. My family is my foundation and my source of strength. Just like the roots of a tree, they keep me grounded and give me the support I need to grow. Life may not always be easy, but knowing that my family is always there for me makes everything better. Despite our differences, the love, guidance, and laughter we share are what make our family tree strong and unbreakable. I am truly thankful for the gift of family, and I know that no matter where life takes me, I will always have them to lean on.