I never liked the sound of the alarm. That’s why I felt so at peace when I could wake up automatically at exactly the time I wanted—yes, like clockwork! If I planned to wake up at 5 a.m., I’d open my eyes at 4:59 a.m.—seriously! I never understood how it happened. Maybe as you get older, your body just makes you do certain things, and waking up at the crack of dawn is one of them.

There’s something calming about the morning—you know, that feeling that you won’t run into anyone and can enjoy your coffee in peace while you drift through your own thoughts? I love that.

I don’t like answering questions while sipping my coffee. I’d rather focus on the birds chirping and the leaves swaying on the Santol tree that once stood behind our house. Now, that tree has been replaced by the stark view of an abandoned business that once held so much promise.

Now, my mind drifts to the regret I feel for the space where that tree once stood so majestically. They cut it down to build a private resort that now sits abandoned, left to decay from poor management. If I had that kind of money, I would have invested in something that could grow—and something that could truly help people. But I guess that’s what happens when you have a lot of money to burn. What a waste that lot has become.

Going back to mornings—like I said, I never liked the idea of waking up, but I savor the moment. I always look forward to the next day, excited for the coffee I’ll enjoy and the view of the sky from my window. That’s why I never liked waking up to the blaring sound of an alarm that jolts me out of sleep. I’d much rather wake to natural sounds—soft whispers and gentle rustles.

These days, I enjoy waking up knowing I don’t have to answer to anyone. I can work whenever I want, and no one belittles what I do. I may not earn as much as I used to, but I love the freedom and peace of mind that come with it. Money isn’t everything—and if you think that’s the only motivation for most people, you’re wrong.

I feel a sense of accomplishment whenever I see my students improving in the way they build sentences, and an even greater pride as their confidence grows little by little. It may seem minor to others, but to me, it’s huge.

I was supposed to focus on why I like mornings, but my mind wandered in so many directions again. Still, I love mornings—especially when they come with no strings attached.