Which do you prefer, having siblings or none at all?
Having no siblings at all could be an enjoying one. You got a chance to have all the love your parents can afford. You do not have any competition with regards to food, education, and almost everything.
Yet, having no siblings at all could somehow make you feel alone and lonely. You’ll just find yourself being envious to those who have siblings who are always there when they sleep, eat, and all other stuffs that they can do together.
Having a sibling or siblings could be advantageous and sometimes the other way around. For the beneficial part, there are values that you can learn if you have siblings. One of those values is sharing. Sharing is what most siblings’ lack. As what people usually say, “hating magkapatid”, or the line, “sharing is loving”. You should try to give to others what you have. Like, when you have a candy, you should try your best to share it. If it cannot be shared, be generous once in a while and give what you can give, especially the one in need is your own brother or sister. Non-sharing of stuffs could be a source of fights among siblings. If there is no sharing among siblings, does love exist in their family?
Respect among brothers and sisters is also one important value. Respect is not only thrown by the younger sibling to the elder one, wherein the older should be called with the tags such as kuya, ate, atse, manang and manang. The elder sibling should also respect the younger ones by listening to them when they are speaking or not to fool around when they are busy with their assignments and projects.
Communication is essential to sibling too. Can you imagine your whole family talking at once? How could you understand each other? Communication is not a one-way process. Rather, it is a two-way. You talk or open up and be heard and listen to others when they speak. Be there always for your siblings. Try to listen to their problems or experiences and give some words to lighten up their hearts. It could also be dome vice versa. You open up, and listen to your siblings’ advices.
Rivalry is common among siblings. Rivalry happens when there is competition among siblings on something. One big factor in sibling rivalry is the parents. If the parents are the pacifier type that aims peace in their homes, probably, rivalry would never exist. Yet, if parents tend to always compare the achievements of one from another, rivalry would exist. Just like aiming for the highest honor. If parents do not compare the achievements of their sons and daughters, their children would not be pressured to compete with their siblings.
To have siblings could be fun and lessen the feeling of loneliness. There would be problems encountered among siblings. Yet, the whole family should be united enough to face these difficulties. Also, parents should also encourage their children to learn the values of respect, sharing, and communication and not to put gap among them.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
To surrender...
Retreat is to surrender. It may be implied to soldiers in battlefields. But, in this case, it is to surrender one’s self to God. Retreat is a time for reflections and giving time to one’s self. Retreat is sometimes mistaken with recollection. Both have the same purpose, to surrender to God. Yet, retreat took in a longer time compared to recollection.
Just this March 24 and 235, our batch got the chance to join a retreat. This retreat would be the most memorable for me, since it is my first time to join in this said activity. The retreat started at the UP Campus, specifically, at the Tan classroom. It started with some possible outcomes in our life and what we would do if this happen. After which, we were grouped with 4 members. My group mates were Razel, Arvin and Michelle. We shared our answers to the possible outcomes in a life of a teenager. We all had similar answers yet in a different manner. Just like in a funny, religious, or serious way. Then, Mdm. Maglasang, our guidance counselor, discussed to everyone the whole thing. It was about a teenager’s life, how to overcome some teenage problems and how to assess one’s self. There was one thing that I cannot forget, to be STRONG always. To be STRONG is to be steadfast, trustworthy, respectful, open-minded, noble and gutsy.
The next part of the retreat was the ‘positive stroking’. It was an activity where one can hear all the positive things that you possess. It was done by dividing the whole batch into two. One of the groups formed a circle and was requested to close their eyes. Then, around then were the other group. This group would be the first one to say positive things about the inner circle. The inner circle had a chance to hear from each of the outer circle. After, the outer circle was given also a chance to receive positive comments about themselves. It was somewhat an inspiration for me. It made me realize that people should not only focus on their weaknesses but also of their strengths or the positive side of themselves. Knowing one’s strengths would somehow heighten his level of self-esteem or confidence.
After the positive stroking, everybody had their lunch. Later, we went to the ‘Community of St. John’, in which we will stay until Sunday morning. The way going there was somewhat rocky, dusty and steep. St. John’s is located in Banawa, an elevated area.
The first thing that we did when we arrive was to arrange our packs. Then, we had some briefing on the rules of the monastery. One thing that distracted me was the silence of the place. It was so quiet that a normal conversation could be heard from afar. So, every time we talk, we have to whisper instead. This act is difficult for us since UPians are naturally talkative.
The first activity that afternoon was about loving one’s self. To start it up, we had a game, then a debate on whether to love or not to love oneself and a talk with Sister Karine. It made me realize that loving oneself is important. We are gifts from God and we should thank God for this precious gift, take care of our body, and love it.
After a short break, we were grouped again. Every group was requested to perform a scene specified by Ate Abegail. Everyone portrayed the roles of people on different situations. There was a pacifier, denier, blamer, victim, merciful, teacher, complainant, and passive. It was shown that listening is important for any situation, especially with regard to problems. After this activity, Fr. John had a talk about love and reconciliation with others. Then, adoration and confession followed.
After the adoration and confession, we had our dinner. At those times, everyone got so excited to eat and even forgot to form lines in getting food. That was why we were scolded.
Circle of Love was the next activity. It was like an open forum and we were given a chance to say sorry for the people we have offended. It was done by giving candles to either who offended you or the one you offended. Though I didn’t receive any candle, I still say sorry for people I offended. It was already 12 midnight that this activity ended. Some slept right away but others still have some chats.
Though I slept late, I was able to wake up early, about almost 4 in the morning. Everyone have to wake up early so that everybody will have a chance to take a bath before breakfast.
After breakfast, Father John had a talk about faith and divine healings. Then we were grouped and had a bible sharing after the talk. In our bible sharing, we discussed the gospel for that day. It was about the woman who was about to be stoned to death because of committing adultery (John 8:1-11). Jesus did not condemn the woman and was merciful enough. We should not condemn others who have sinned, since it is only the non-sinners who can condemn the sinners. But, no one in this world is a non-sinner, right?
Before the holy mass, we packed our things since we will leave after the mass. So, we saw to it not to leave any trash on our quarters. Our retreat ended with a mass.
Retreat is not a time for vacation only wherein you can experience throughout the day a life of pleasure and leisure. Retreat is your opportunity to stop for a while on worldly things and to reflect on your spiritual life. It would be a good time to repent on your sins and to thank God for your life, and reconciliation with others as well. retreat is a time to surrender to God.
Just this March 24 and 235, our batch got the chance to join a retreat. This retreat would be the most memorable for me, since it is my first time to join in this said activity. The retreat started at the UP Campus, specifically, at the Tan classroom. It started with some possible outcomes in our life and what we would do if this happen. After which, we were grouped with 4 members. My group mates were Razel, Arvin and Michelle. We shared our answers to the possible outcomes in a life of a teenager. We all had similar answers yet in a different manner. Just like in a funny, religious, or serious way. Then, Mdm. Maglasang, our guidance counselor, discussed to everyone the whole thing. It was about a teenager’s life, how to overcome some teenage problems and how to assess one’s self. There was one thing that I cannot forget, to be STRONG always. To be STRONG is to be steadfast, trustworthy, respectful, open-minded, noble and gutsy.
The next part of the retreat was the ‘positive stroking’. It was an activity where one can hear all the positive things that you possess. It was done by dividing the whole batch into two. One of the groups formed a circle and was requested to close their eyes. Then, around then were the other group. This group would be the first one to say positive things about the inner circle. The inner circle had a chance to hear from each of the outer circle. After, the outer circle was given also a chance to receive positive comments about themselves. It was somewhat an inspiration for me. It made me realize that people should not only focus on their weaknesses but also of their strengths or the positive side of themselves. Knowing one’s strengths would somehow heighten his level of self-esteem or confidence.
After the positive stroking, everybody had their lunch. Later, we went to the ‘Community of St. John’, in which we will stay until Sunday morning. The way going there was somewhat rocky, dusty and steep. St. John’s is located in Banawa, an elevated area.
The first thing that we did when we arrive was to arrange our packs. Then, we had some briefing on the rules of the monastery. One thing that distracted me was the silence of the place. It was so quiet that a normal conversation could be heard from afar. So, every time we talk, we have to whisper instead. This act is difficult for us since UPians are naturally talkative.
The first activity that afternoon was about loving one’s self. To start it up, we had a game, then a debate on whether to love or not to love oneself and a talk with Sister Karine. It made me realize that loving oneself is important. We are gifts from God and we should thank God for this precious gift, take care of our body, and love it.
After a short break, we were grouped again. Every group was requested to perform a scene specified by Ate Abegail. Everyone portrayed the roles of people on different situations. There was a pacifier, denier, blamer, victim, merciful, teacher, complainant, and passive. It was shown that listening is important for any situation, especially with regard to problems. After this activity, Fr. John had a talk about love and reconciliation with others. Then, adoration and confession followed.
After the adoration and confession, we had our dinner. At those times, everyone got so excited to eat and even forgot to form lines in getting food. That was why we were scolded.
Circle of Love was the next activity. It was like an open forum and we were given a chance to say sorry for the people we have offended. It was done by giving candles to either who offended you or the one you offended. Though I didn’t receive any candle, I still say sorry for people I offended. It was already 12 midnight that this activity ended. Some slept right away but others still have some chats.
Though I slept late, I was able to wake up early, about almost 4 in the morning. Everyone have to wake up early so that everybody will have a chance to take a bath before breakfast.
After breakfast, Father John had a talk about faith and divine healings. Then we were grouped and had a bible sharing after the talk. In our bible sharing, we discussed the gospel for that day. It was about the woman who was about to be stoned to death because of committing adultery (John 8:1-11). Jesus did not condemn the woman and was merciful enough. We should not condemn others who have sinned, since it is only the non-sinners who can condemn the sinners. But, no one in this world is a non-sinner, right?
Before the holy mass, we packed our things since we will leave after the mass. So, we saw to it not to leave any trash on our quarters. Our retreat ended with a mass.
Retreat is not a time for vacation only wherein you can experience throughout the day a life of pleasure and leisure. Retreat is your opportunity to stop for a while on worldly things and to reflect on your spiritual life. It would be a good time to repent on your sins and to thank God for your life, and reconciliation with others as well. retreat is a time to surrender to God.
Accepting our faults…[ The Problem with man/woman…]
Man and woman, two distinct creatures that started the civilization of man. These are the two individuals that fill up the world carrying with them their personalities, which makes the world not a monotonous one.
Every one of us has his or her personalities, with various weaknesses, strengths and mistakes. Even Adam and Eve can’t resist temptations that got them away from Eden. And, we may see problems with man that different with woman, vice versa or applicable to both genders. As a woman, I can cite some of the problems among us and also among men.
Commonly, men have a hard time in swallowing their pride. Since ancient times, different communities have high regards to man than in woman. Yet, as time passes by, gender equality was continuously fought. So, there was the existence of women empowerment and women’s rights. But, some men still have the idea that they are strong and cannot be tumble right away. So, they have a fear of failing. Then, if there are circumstances that women tend to overpower them, which would somewhat a slap on their face. For example, a man serves as the bread winner of the family. Unfortunately, the man got sick and cannot work anymore. All he can do is just to stay home and do some simple household chores. This situation forces his wife to stop being a housewife and have to look for a job. There would be a tendency for the man to be depressed and might plan to take away his own life. Because of his pride, he cannot accept of his failure to earn for his family.
Fidelity for some men may be a difficult thing to fulfill. That to be a one-woman man is something huge that he has to accomplish, though against his will. Some men thought that there would be no night of boredom if his one-night stands would be around to fulfill his leisure. Also, some even have five girlfriends or have practiced concubinage. For some, infidelity makes them feel more ‘macho’ or masculine. This kind of problem is somewhat most women hate and at the same time fear to be hurt if her husband has at least one or two mistresses.
Being too much logical is also what women hate about some men. There are some men that palpitation of ones heart is due to ones limbic system and not of love. There are some men that always think of the facts and not of the emotions. Sometimes, they become so insensitive towards the feelings of others.
There are some men that are too possessive. They thought of their wives or girlfriends as a precious gem that cannot be held by anybody’s hand. They prevent other guys from speaking to their partners. And they even got jealous so fast, faster than the speed of light.
There are also some behaviors that women tend to be hated by men or by their co-women. One of which is their fickle-mindedness. Some women seem to gradually keep on changing their decisions. They become so picky or choosy on things. Just like choosing the right dress, the best restaurant, and others.
Some women are impulsive. That is why women are so prone to impulse-buying. It is a term in economics that describes someone who buys something without planning to buy it. They just keep on buying what they see on stores.
Nagging is a common thing among women. Women tend to talk too much instead of listening to explanations and solving the problem, they just can’t help but to talk and talk.
Every one of us has his or her mistakes. It is up to us to accept and change it for the betterment of others and also for ourselves.
Every one of us has his or her personalities, with various weaknesses, strengths and mistakes. Even Adam and Eve can’t resist temptations that got them away from Eden. And, we may see problems with man that different with woman, vice versa or applicable to both genders. As a woman, I can cite some of the problems among us and also among men.
Commonly, men have a hard time in swallowing their pride. Since ancient times, different communities have high regards to man than in woman. Yet, as time passes by, gender equality was continuously fought. So, there was the existence of women empowerment and women’s rights. But, some men still have the idea that they are strong and cannot be tumble right away. So, they have a fear of failing. Then, if there are circumstances that women tend to overpower them, which would somewhat a slap on their face. For example, a man serves as the bread winner of the family. Unfortunately, the man got sick and cannot work anymore. All he can do is just to stay home and do some simple household chores. This situation forces his wife to stop being a housewife and have to look for a job. There would be a tendency for the man to be depressed and might plan to take away his own life. Because of his pride, he cannot accept of his failure to earn for his family.
Fidelity for some men may be a difficult thing to fulfill. That to be a one-woman man is something huge that he has to accomplish, though against his will. Some men thought that there would be no night of boredom if his one-night stands would be around to fulfill his leisure. Also, some even have five girlfriends or have practiced concubinage. For some, infidelity makes them feel more ‘macho’ or masculine. This kind of problem is somewhat most women hate and at the same time fear to be hurt if her husband has at least one or two mistresses.
Being too much logical is also what women hate about some men. There are some men that palpitation of ones heart is due to ones limbic system and not of love. There are some men that always think of the facts and not of the emotions. Sometimes, they become so insensitive towards the feelings of others.
There are some men that are too possessive. They thought of their wives or girlfriends as a precious gem that cannot be held by anybody’s hand. They prevent other guys from speaking to their partners. And they even got jealous so fast, faster than the speed of light.
There are also some behaviors that women tend to be hated by men or by their co-women. One of which is their fickle-mindedness. Some women seem to gradually keep on changing their decisions. They become so picky or choosy on things. Just like choosing the right dress, the best restaurant, and others.
Some women are impulsive. That is why women are so prone to impulse-buying. It is a term in economics that describes someone who buys something without planning to buy it. They just keep on buying what they see on stores.
Nagging is a common thing among women. Women tend to talk too much instead of listening to explanations and solving the problem, they just can’t help but to talk and talk.
Every one of us has his or her mistakes. It is up to us to accept and change it for the betterment of others and also for ourselves.
Being Generous...
Our graduation or commencement rite is fast approaching! Imagine? It would be just weeks from now. There was even a schedule for meetings and practices with regards to this special event. And songs for the graduation were chosen already. Sadly, we have to leave high school very soon.
Graduation could be one of the most fulfilling parts of a student’s life. It would be fulfilling because for so many years of hardships and difficulties, you were able to overcome the struggles and be ready to face the next steps of life. Meanwhile, graduation would also be somehow sad. It would be difficult to leave the school that molded you, the teachers who polished your talents and capabilities, and the colleagues who supported you all the way.
Memories. As we left our alma maters, memories whether of the good and bad will always be there, intact in our minds. As what they say, these are the memories that would last forever. After leaving high school, how would you want to be remembered? You could be as the batch clown, sleepy head, the boss and other categories.
Generosity is giving or sharing to others what you have. Even though you have less, you still strive to give to others what you can share. This is what most people in our batch remember about me. They thought of me as someone who is always ready to share.
The legacy of generosity was even bequeathed to me. I did not expect to receive such. It was after our junior-senior promenade that my classmates showed appreciation on my generosity. Generosity in me is not that obvious then, but because of this Legacy of Generosity, it was one big start for me to be known as ‘generous’. Whenever people asks for something from me, the word, “uy, legacy of generosity bitaw ka...”always come with their requests
I was really flattered by their comments. Truly, I do try my best to share what I have. Yet, I am not the perfect Samaritan. There are times that I can’t give everything that people wished. Sometimes, I also thought of myself. Being generous does not always necessarily mean giving every time somebody needs something. You also need to prioritize yourself a little bit. Sometimes, you need to tell them not to depend on you too much. Being generous means helping those in need. In need in that very moment, because sometimes, people tend to become dependent on you. They need to provide things for themselves also. Being generous to anyone could be a very great act. But, what if a person is frequently asking you paper, or other supplies and don’t have any valid reason not to have such? It can already called as parasitism or irresponsibility. It is good to give someone fish. But it is likely better to teach people how to fish. I even joined the academic mentoring program in our school. This program was conducted by UP high school students. In this, UP high students like me, would be given a chance to be teachers to elementary pupils in Math. We were not merely teaching math, we also strive hard to teach students to be more responsible and be able to attain their goals in life. In this way, we are teaching the tomorrow’s future to fish and discouraging them to beg for one.
Graduation could be one of the most fulfilling parts of a student’s life. It would be fulfilling because for so many years of hardships and difficulties, you were able to overcome the struggles and be ready to face the next steps of life. Meanwhile, graduation would also be somehow sad. It would be difficult to leave the school that molded you, the teachers who polished your talents and capabilities, and the colleagues who supported you all the way.
Memories. As we left our alma maters, memories whether of the good and bad will always be there, intact in our minds. As what they say, these are the memories that would last forever. After leaving high school, how would you want to be remembered? You could be as the batch clown, sleepy head, the boss and other categories.
Generosity is giving or sharing to others what you have. Even though you have less, you still strive to give to others what you can share. This is what most people in our batch remember about me. They thought of me as someone who is always ready to share.
The legacy of generosity was even bequeathed to me. I did not expect to receive such. It was after our junior-senior promenade that my classmates showed appreciation on my generosity. Generosity in me is not that obvious then, but because of this Legacy of Generosity, it was one big start for me to be known as ‘generous’. Whenever people asks for something from me, the word, “uy, legacy of generosity bitaw ka...”always come with their requests
I was really flattered by their comments. Truly, I do try my best to share what I have. Yet, I am not the perfect Samaritan. There are times that I can’t give everything that people wished. Sometimes, I also thought of myself. Being generous does not always necessarily mean giving every time somebody needs something. You also need to prioritize yourself a little bit. Sometimes, you need to tell them not to depend on you too much. Being generous means helping those in need. In need in that very moment, because sometimes, people tend to become dependent on you. They need to provide things for themselves also. Being generous to anyone could be a very great act. But, what if a person is frequently asking you paper, or other supplies and don’t have any valid reason not to have such? It can already called as parasitism or irresponsibility. It is good to give someone fish. But it is likely better to teach people how to fish. I even joined the academic mentoring program in our school. This program was conducted by UP high school students. In this, UP high students like me, would be given a chance to be teachers to elementary pupils in Math. We were not merely teaching math, we also strive hard to teach students to be more responsible and be able to attain their goals in life. In this way, we are teaching the tomorrow’s future to fish and discouraging them to beg for one.
Ms. True Beauty!
Why so I have a flat nose? Why don’t I have such porcelain skin? Oh, do I look like an ogre with my pimples? I hate my thick lips! I wish I could have straighter hair. I look fat with this outfit!
As we meet people, one that we can directly see is his or her outer covering. That is why we always got conscious on the way we look and dress. We always spend hours of our daily routine in putting up make-ups, splashing to your favorite scent, choosing a dress, so on and so forth. We always find ways to be presentable and ‘perfect’ in the eyes of others.
Being presentable always could be a good habit to an individual. Being hygienic and presentable all the time would create a good aura, right? And, who would want to chat with someone who has a bad breath? Nobody, right? Yet, people tend to exaggerate on things. Instead of aiming to have shampooed hair, this becomes the straightening of one’s curls or the other way around. Or instead of just wearing high heels, others take up medicines that can make them taller. Or instead of just wearing padded bras, others opt for breast augmentations.
Insecurities and discontentment can be perceived among these individuals. They wanted to be like somebody whom they think is perfect. That is why the business in cosmetic surgery never dies. Sometimes, people forgot about reflecting on their values and instead thought about having cup C breasts.
Like everyone else, I do not deny that I have insecurities too. Honestly, I am conscious on how I look. Especially with my flat nose, big tummy, dark complexion, masculine builds like having hair on my legs and a lot more. Yet, as much as possible, I do not want to undergo in such cosmetic surgeries. Sometimes, I thought of such. But hey! You’re going to spend thousands just to implant ‘plastics’ in your body?
Beauty is always associated with the perfect, slender body, luscious lips, shiny hair, fair and porcelain-like skin, and others. We always associate beauty with the physical aspect of man. Yet, beauty is not just this one. True beauty is not just about cosmetics and hairstyles. True beauty is the kindness of the heart. True beauty is not possessed by someone who does selfish acts to their fellows.
If you find yourself ugly, think again. You might be a candidate for Ms. and Mr. True Beauty. Show to the world that beauty is not of the face but also of the pureness of the heart. True beauty does not lie on how many girls have crushes on you but on how much people love you with your kindness. Beauty is not obtained by few, but is of everybody you just have to show the real you. There is no need of ‘plastics’ in you. Don’t let yourself be wrapped up with those cosmetic surgeries. Physical beauty may fade as you age, but true beauty will last forever.
As we meet people, one that we can directly see is his or her outer covering. That is why we always got conscious on the way we look and dress. We always spend hours of our daily routine in putting up make-ups, splashing to your favorite scent, choosing a dress, so on and so forth. We always find ways to be presentable and ‘perfect’ in the eyes of others.
Being presentable always could be a good habit to an individual. Being hygienic and presentable all the time would create a good aura, right? And, who would want to chat with someone who has a bad breath? Nobody, right? Yet, people tend to exaggerate on things. Instead of aiming to have shampooed hair, this becomes the straightening of one’s curls or the other way around. Or instead of just wearing high heels, others take up medicines that can make them taller. Or instead of just wearing padded bras, others opt for breast augmentations.
Insecurities and discontentment can be perceived among these individuals. They wanted to be like somebody whom they think is perfect. That is why the business in cosmetic surgery never dies. Sometimes, people forgot about reflecting on their values and instead thought about having cup C breasts.
Like everyone else, I do not deny that I have insecurities too. Honestly, I am conscious on how I look. Especially with my flat nose, big tummy, dark complexion, masculine builds like having hair on my legs and a lot more. Yet, as much as possible, I do not want to undergo in such cosmetic surgeries. Sometimes, I thought of such. But hey! You’re going to spend thousands just to implant ‘plastics’ in your body?
Beauty is always associated with the perfect, slender body, luscious lips, shiny hair, fair and porcelain-like skin, and others. We always associate beauty with the physical aspect of man. Yet, beauty is not just this one. True beauty is not just about cosmetics and hairstyles. True beauty is the kindness of the heart. True beauty is not possessed by someone who does selfish acts to their fellows.
If you find yourself ugly, think again. You might be a candidate for Ms. and Mr. True Beauty. Show to the world that beauty is not of the face but also of the pureness of the heart. True beauty does not lie on how many girls have crushes on you but on how much people love you with your kindness. Beauty is not obtained by few, but is of everybody you just have to show the real you. There is no need of ‘plastics’ in you. Don’t let yourself be wrapped up with those cosmetic surgeries. Physical beauty may fade as you age, but true beauty will last forever.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
I am Envious…[The SECOND Edition]
(The first was written last December 2006 for our journalism class.)
“C is for the candy around the Christmas tree, H is for the happiness…” this is one of the earworms during the during the Christmas season that I myself was infected. Singing carols and giving gifts are just the common stuffs that happen during the holidays. Before anything else, curiosity filled my mind. What is Christmas by the way? Is it really just for spending and singing carols and stuffs?
As I know, Christmas was the time that the child Jesus was born. He was conceived by Mary. And guess what? When Mary was to give birth, no family ever offered their homes for Mary and Joseph. So, in Bethlehem, they stayed in a manger. They joined the company of the donkeys and cattle. How simple the Holy Family was! Then, the three kings who sought Jesus, offered him great that one cannot refuse! Maybe, it was the time that people get the idea of offering gifts on Christmas day. And it is also the time that the people rejoice since it is the nativity of the Messiah.
For some, they spend their Christmas on visiting their loved ones and giving them hugs and kisses. Some even jumped at the chance of having a reunion with friends and family.
But, I wasn’t after all one of those gay people. I do not feel like celebrating Christmas this year. I can’t feel the excitement of putting up the well-decorated Christmas tree, the colorful parol, the glittering Christmas lights, and all those Christmas decors! I don’t feel like singing Christmas carols and buying gifts for my friends. It like my Christmas would be gloomy this year.
Honestly, I am envious with these people. I am envious with how they eat with their whole family, how they share their smiles with them and how happy they are! Yes, you got it. My family is physically not complete this Christmas. My father is apparently working in Saudi Arabia while my sister took a job in Dubai. It is only my brother and mother who are celebrating Christmas with me this year.
Though my father and sister are not celebrating the yuletide season with me this year, it is like my yuletide season is not gloomy after all! Fortunately, my uncles, aunts and cousins stayed with us this Christmas. This would be my first Christmas that I’m going to celebrate with them. Opposite than what I expected, my Christmas was a bit fun!
I do understand that my family have to work hard to provide everything, the best for me. They wanted me to experience or feel the comforts and joys of life. I extremely appreciate the sacrifices that they have to take for my sake. And now, I’m truly inspired to study well for me to give in return the ‘paghihirap’ they have done.
So, this Christmas time, my family is still complete. Though not physically, but I’m pretty sure that we are much bonded together. And no distance can cut our strong bondage.
A Blessing...
Excitement filled my day as we left school for an entrepreneurship conference at the Waterfront hotel. As a proof, I wore my best uniform, polished my leather shoes, fixed my hair properly and others. I was excited to learn new things different from the school’s curriculum. Honestly, I was also relieved that we are exempted from classes.
As my companions and I reached the hotel’s entrance, we were served well by the hotel employees. After the registration, we went inside the hall and were asked to sit. Elegantly, we sat down on the chairs located around the round tables. I felt like one of the businessmen present in the conference.
Minutes later, the room was filled. We were surprised when we were asked to vacate the seats and to occupy the chairs at the sides of the hall. Honestly, I was insulted by that. But later, my mood changed when the forum began. The rich and the famous shared to us their success stories.
It was time for the morning break. Luckily, we were given the chance to eat the mouth-watering delights. Yet, the waiters served us late than the others. Again, my emotions shifted into a happy one as the speakers continued. During lunch, my stomach started to tremble. In short, I was hungry. Everyone was served with lunch. But none of the UP students received or have eaten lunch. Since that time, I wanted to leave the hotel. Thank God! I was able to control my anger. My pals and I just left the hall and ate at the carenderia located at the basement of the hotel. Yet, some left for lunch and ate outside. Later, they returned and at the same time, we were done with our lunch.
We returned to the hall and it was the time the speakers started to talk. Later, we were served with the afternoon snacks. Mariel, one of my companions, was later invited to come on stage to present her ideas in business. So, she went up stage together with the Saint Theresa’s College and Sacred Heart-Jesuits spokespersons. We clapped our hands to show our full support.
After the talks with Mariel and other students, we later left the hotel by batch to avoid chaos. We might disturb the conference since still ongoing when we left. We returned to school and shared to others our experiences. At this time, we were able to thank God for the opportunity He had given to us.
To recall everything, I remembered what madam Baltazar told us. She said that we must thank God for this great opportunity that came our way. We may not have been treated like señoritas and señoritos or treated the way we expected to be. But it is because, we joined the conference without paying any cent. We went there to listen and to imbibe new ideas, not to be as hotel guests. We should thank the organizers that we were able to eat snacks eventhough we did not pay for it. We were advantageous since we were not asjed for fees. After all, the things that we experienced were blessings in disguise.
As my companions and I reached the hotel’s entrance, we were served well by the hotel employees. After the registration, we went inside the hall and were asked to sit. Elegantly, we sat down on the chairs located around the round tables. I felt like one of the businessmen present in the conference.
Minutes later, the room was filled. We were surprised when we were asked to vacate the seats and to occupy the chairs at the sides of the hall. Honestly, I was insulted by that. But later, my mood changed when the forum began. The rich and the famous shared to us their success stories.
It was time for the morning break. Luckily, we were given the chance to eat the mouth-watering delights. Yet, the waiters served us late than the others. Again, my emotions shifted into a happy one as the speakers continued. During lunch, my stomach started to tremble. In short, I was hungry. Everyone was served with lunch. But none of the UP students received or have eaten lunch. Since that time, I wanted to leave the hotel. Thank God! I was able to control my anger. My pals and I just left the hall and ate at the carenderia located at the basement of the hotel. Yet, some left for lunch and ate outside. Later, they returned and at the same time, we were done with our lunch.
We returned to the hall and it was the time the speakers started to talk. Later, we were served with the afternoon snacks. Mariel, one of my companions, was later invited to come on stage to present her ideas in business. So, she went up stage together with the Saint Theresa’s College and Sacred Heart-Jesuits spokespersons. We clapped our hands to show our full support.
After the talks with Mariel and other students, we later left the hotel by batch to avoid chaos. We might disturb the conference since still ongoing when we left. We returned to school and shared to others our experiences. At this time, we were able to thank God for the opportunity He had given to us.
To recall everything, I remembered what madam Baltazar told us. She said that we must thank God for this great opportunity that came our way. We may not have been treated like señoritas and señoritos or treated the way we expected to be. But it is because, we joined the conference without paying any cent. We went there to listen and to imbibe new ideas, not to be as hotel guests. We should thank the organizers that we were able to eat snacks eventhough we did not pay for it. We were advantageous since we were not asjed for fees. After all, the things that we experienced were blessings in disguise.
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