THE GHOST OF THE PAST Birthdays were one of my most anticipated events. They were signs of another year being added to an individual—a sign of growth, more responsibility, and freedom. The sad part, it was a sign of a person’s closer time to death, but I preferred to remember the good effects of a birthday. This was one of times when families and friends were together to celebrate. Despite their businesses, they find ways to make their time available just so they can be there in the special day. My mom and I had been talking since last week about the plans for my birthday—whether to make it as grand as my debut or just a simple dinner would be enough. I decided that we would cook foods for my friends since I invited Rose and Andi, and they guaranteed their visit. Perhaps, we’d have a lo

