It was the kind of breakup I knew was coming, though I dreaded it all the same. She was my first love in the professional world, and I suspect she’ll also be my last. Over the years, I have created a treasure trove of memories, lessons, and experiences with her. I always tried to be good to our relationship, always giving my best. But sometimes, fate has its own plans. And though my heart is heavy, I find myself ready for what comes next in this new chapter of my life.
MY FIRST
We first crossed paths before I even graduated from my vocational studies at CITE. As one of the lucky scholars, I was given the chance to work with her through an apprenticeship contract. Little did I know, that humble beginning would evolve into something that would define a big part of my life. After two years of hard work, we grew close, and without even realizing it, we became more than just a professional bond—we became something real, something that felt permanent. We became a team.
As time went on, my journey with her deepened. I asked if I could pursue my bachelor’s degree, and without hesitation, she said yes. For the next three years, we thrived together—me studying in the mornings, working with her in the evenings. It was grueling, exhausting, and at times, soul-draining. But when I finally graduated with my BS in IT, the sense of accomplishment I felt was indescribable. She had been there through it all, my silent partner in every late night and every long day. And as I held my diploma in my hands, I knew it wouldn’t have been possible without her by my side.
MY OPPORTUNITY
Years passed, and just when I thought I had seen everything, she surprised me again. She offered me a chance to make a major career shift—an opportunity to transition from IT to E-Commerce. It was one of those moments that only comes once in a lifetime, and I knew I had to take it. In 2018, I embraced this new challenge, stepping into a new role with new colleagues and a new manager, transitioning from a local team to a global one based in the USA. That same year, I had the privilege of visiting our headquarters, and of course, I took a weekend trip to New York. It was brief but sweet—a memory I will forever hold dear.
Then, 2020 came, bringing with it the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic. The world changed overnight, and with it, my life. I braced myself for the worst, fully expecting that our relationship might end. Financial struggles, health crises, emotional tolls—it felt like everyone around me was falling apart. Yet, to my surprise, she stood by me. Despite the chaos, she supported me, offering stability when everything else seemed uncertain. That loyalty was a gift, one I won’t ever forget.
MY LAST
And then, last Friday, the inevitable arrived. I received a notification for a one-on-one meeting with my Head. My gut instinct told me something wasn’t right. My work partner didn’t receive the same notice, and though it was midterm weekend, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. Still, I carried on with the day.
Monday came. I walked in, worked with her like any other day, oblivious to the fact that it would be my last. Then came the call. My manager, tearful and shaky, broke the news. It was over.
But even in that moment of finality, I remained calm. I had sensed it coming, after all. I even joked to friends that I might be next. When I heard the words I had been anticipating, I didn’t panic. I said simply, “It’s okay. I saw this coming.” It was true. And somehow, I found myself smiling, a bittersweet grin that spoke volumes about the peace I had made with the situation.
SHE IS TIMEX
As I write this, the reality hasn’t fully sunk in. My emotions are still a whirlwind, torn between sadness and joy. There’s a part of me that feels a little lost, but another part that is already excited for what’s to come. For now, I’m looking forward to focusing more on my LEX studies as I approach my third year. I’ll finally have time to travel, explore new places, and dive deeper into my passion for blogging.
But even with all the bright possibilities ahead, I know I’ll always carry Timex with me. Seventeen years isn’t just a number—it’s a chapter in my life that shaped who I am today. Saying goodbye is never easy, but I’m grateful for the lessons, the growth, and the incredible memories we shared.
So, as I bid farewell to my first professional love, I’ll always remember her. She is Timex. And as of today, 186293 is saying goodbye.
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| This was taken 3 years ago. |