Indecision: Time for contemplation

By: Angelica Ilustre Senior D

Most teenagers at this age have set a particular goal in their lives for themselves. It may have been a dream that they have just discovered they wanted, or it may have been something they have always wanted to pursue. But among many teenagers, there are some, who unfortunately, remain quite undecided. I am one of those people. 

Throughout my life I have never given myself particular time to ponder over what career path I would take in the future. Every year, it would be the same answer: “It’s still pretty early to decide.” But the time has now come for me to make a very crucial decision: a decision that may not only change the course of my life, but also change the course of others. 

My parents instilled within myself the ideology that failure only leads you closer to success. I have gone through experiences proving that this is so. We go through tribulations throughout our lives, and for a moment, we are discouraged. But as more problems came, I learned that these serve as a motivation to make us push harder to reach our goals and achieve what we want. It also taught me the value of God in my life. He was merely someone I used to talk to as a child, not knowing His full grace and majesty. But as I grew older I saw how much the role of God affects our lives. Not only does he affect our lives, He is the reason why we live. Because of these realizations, I gave importance to perseverance and trust in God. These virtues are few of the many I have learned to value, until today. These values allow me to strive harder and farther. 

Nobody is perfect, they say. Our limitations allow us to set within ourselves a standard. Personally, I try to aim higher every time I reach that standard. What matters most to me is my relationship with God, and so I put Him first in every decision I make. It is a difficult task, since we are only human, but that is the challenge He gave us. I am a go-getter, and so I am willing to take on that challenge, among many others that God has, and plans to let me face. Another thing I value is my family, particularly pleasing my parents. They have supported me all my life and so I wish to make them proud, and I want to be able to do this not only through my academic or extra-curricular achievements, but to show them that they are raising a good person. A person they can be proud of. I think that my limitations do not matter in doing what I want because it is the effort we put into things that will make a difference. I think that I can do my best in every aspect in my life as long as I commit to it. Anyone is capable of doing their best. Even if we cannot do everything, doing something with commitment and heart can create a big change. These limitations that we have aren’t a road block. It’s something to remind us of humility: another virtue I find very significant in my life today.

I have taken many opportunities, and have given some up. But with all the opportunities I have taken and the experiences I have gained, there is only one recurring thing that not only satisfies, makes me happy, and at the same time enlightens me and renews my faith and love for God: It is helping and making others happy.

I am still undecided with my future profession, but seeing that my parents are both involved in entrepreneurship, I am being led to that career path as well. But I want to be able to incorporate my passion in the future business I will make: A service that could also benefit others, not only me. I want to be self-employed and be a good leader and a good influence. I want to become that person who will give people brand new opportunities, and create change in our society today. Contemplating on the possibilities makes me committed to striving hard to achieve this. I think that in order to achieve success, I must be able to make others happy as well. We do not live only for ourselves. Our ultimate purpose in life is to be of service to others and to God. I plan to keep this value in the future, when I finally do have a clear idea of the business I want to pursue. I want to use my gifts from God and share them. 

I now see the significance of time, of effort, and my significance in the world. Although it is not as clear, there is something there. I plan to discover what lies ahead in the future for me, and what I can do to make a true person out myself and my future career.

Indecision: Time for contemplation

By: Angelica Ilustre Senior D

Most teenagers at this age have set a particular goal in their lives for themselves. It may have been a dream that they have just discovered they wanted, or it may have been something they have always wanted to pursue. But among many teenagers, there are some, who unfortunately, remain quite undecided. I am one of those people. 

Throughout my life I have never given myself particular time to ponder over what career path I would take in the future. Every year, it would be the same answer: “It’s still pretty early to decide.” But the time has now come for me to make a very crucial decision: a decision that may not only change the course of my life, but also change the course of others. 

My parents instilled within myself the ideology that failure only leads you closer to success. I have gone through experiences proving that this is so. We go through tribulations throughout our lives, and for a moment, we are discouraged. But as more problems came, I learned that these serve as a motivation to make us push harder to reach our goals and achieve what we want. It also taught me the value of God in my life. He was merely someone I used to talk to as a child, not knowing His full grace and majesty. But as I grew older I saw how much the role of God affects our lives. Not only does he affect our lives, He is the reason why we live. Because of these realizations, I gave importance to perseverance and trust in God. These virtues are few of the many I have learned to value, until today. These values allow me to strive harder and farther. 

Nobody is perfect, they say. Our limitations allow us to set within ourselves a standard. Personally, I try to aim higher every time I reach that standard. What matters most to me is my relationship with God, and so I put Him first in every decision I make. It is a difficult task, since we are only human, but that is the challenge He gave us. I am a go-getter, and so I am willing to take on that challenge, among many others that God has, and plans to let me face. Another thing I value is my family, particularly pleasing my parents. They have supported me all my life and so I wish to make them proud, and I want to be able to do this not only through my academic or extra-curricular achievements, but to show them that they are raising a good person. A person they can be proud of. I think that my limitations do not matter in doing what I want because it is the effort we put into things that will make a difference. I think that I can do my best in every aspect in my life as long as I commit to it. Anyone is capable of doing their best. Even if we cannot do everything, doing something with commitment and heart can create a big change. These limitations that we have aren’t a road block. It’s something to remind us of humility: another virtue I find very significant in my life today.

I have taken many opportunities, and have given some up. But with all the opportunities I have taken and the experiences I have gained, there is only one recurring thing that not only satisfies, makes me happy, and at the same time enlightens me and renews my faith and love for God: It is helping and making others happy.

I am still undecided with my future profession, but seeing that my parents are both involved in entrepreneurship, I am being led to that career path as well. But I want to be able to incorporate my passion in the future business I will make: A service that could also benefit others, not only me. I want to be self-employed and be a good leader and a good influence. I want to become that person who will give people brand new opportunities, and create change in our society today. Contemplating on the possibilities makes me committed to striving hard to achieve this. I think that in order to achieve success, I must be able to make others happy as well. We do not live only for ourselves. Our ultimate purpose in life is to be of service to others and to God. I plan to keep this value in the future, when I finally do have a clear idea of the business I want to pursue. I want to use my gifts from God and share them. 

I now see the significance of time, of effort, and my significance in the world. Although it is not as clear, there is something there. I plan to discover what lies ahead in the future for me, and what I can do to make a true person out myself and my future career.

"What Makes Humans Tick"

Friday, October 8, 2010

Excellent Work by: Marco Ray C. Leo Sr.-F

The pursuit of understanding oneself has always been one of the many goals people try to achieve. From trying to understand oneself, to trying to understand others, people have always been pondering on the fundamental question: “Who am I?” As with most people, I too have also asked this of myself. This is why Anthropology interests me. Anthropology is the study of humanity. This encompasses the humanities, social sciences and etc. 

My interest in Social Studies started in Grade School when I got a high score in a Social Studies test. At first I thought it was hard, mainly because I tried to memorize it, but not understand it. When I tried to understand it, it became easier for me and I started to like the subject. Back then, it was still called “Araling Panlipunan” and was taught in Filipino. I also had a hard time in that subject, but I was good in English. Over time, however, I became better in Filipino. Eventually, I was able to keep consistently high grades in the three subjects and came to like them. As language is an important facet in understanding people, it is inextricably linked to the Social Sciences. Thus, my interest in these subjects grew. 

Nowadays, people are so caught up with advancements in science and technology that they forget traditions and values of the past. They forget the beauty of bygone eras that shaped their society to what it is today. For me, I value these things because I believe that the past shapes the future; thus the past needs to be preserved. I have learned that history repeats itself so we must study it to prevent any coming disasters and use the knowledge of the past to shape the future. 

Humanity has always been struggling to find whatever satisfies them. Whether it is something spiritual or mundane, people will actively try to seek it. And it is this drive which brings out the turning points of history. By coming to learn how humanity has progressed (or regressed), people can find out the trends which shape the future and how it changes it.

"What Makes Humans Tick"

Friday, October 8, 2010

Excellent Work by: Marco Ray C. Leo Sr.-F

The pursuit of understanding oneself has always been one of the many goals people try to achieve. From trying to understand oneself, to trying to understand others, people have always been pondering on the fundamental question: “Who am I?” As with most people, I too have also asked this of myself. This is why Anthropology interests me. Anthropology is the study of humanity. This encompasses the humanities, social sciences and etc. 

My interest in Social Studies started in Grade School when I got a high score in a Social Studies test. At first I thought it was hard, mainly because I tried to memorize it, but not understand it. When I tried to understand it, it became easier for me and I started to like the subject. Back then, it was still called “Araling Panlipunan” and was taught in Filipino. I also had a hard time in that subject, but I was good in English. Over time, however, I became better in Filipino. Eventually, I was able to keep consistently high grades in the three subjects and came to like them. As language is an important facet in understanding people, it is inextricably linked to the Social Sciences. Thus, my interest in these subjects grew. 

Nowadays, people are so caught up with advancements in science and technology that they forget traditions and values of the past. They forget the beauty of bygone eras that shaped their society to what it is today. For me, I value these things because I believe that the past shapes the future; thus the past needs to be preserved. I have learned that history repeats itself so we must study it to prevent any coming disasters and use the knowledge of the past to shape the future. 

Humanity has always been struggling to find whatever satisfies them. Whether it is something spiritual or mundane, people will actively try to seek it. And it is this drive which brings out the turning points of history. By coming to learn how humanity has progressed (or regressed), people can find out the trends which shape the future and how it changes it.

Teaching Requires Skill and Passion

Excellent Work Of Bea Angela T. Lozada Senior – E

CL Minor Project # 1

“I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework.” This quotation said by Lily Tomlin truly defines what teaching is. That is what I really like about teachers and their vocation. They give you not only lessons that will help you excel in academics, but also lessons in life that will define you as a person. You’d probably ask why I’m talking about the teaching profession here. That’s because after listening to what my heart has been saying, I want to pursue the same career. And I am hoping that the closest to me, my family, and everyone else around me will help me achieve this. 

Some may say that teaching requires a lot of skill. But for me, it’s not just about skills. It’s also about passion. You may have the skills of a teacher, but having the heart of one can be difficult to obtain. Teaching also requires passion and obligation, and I put my hands down to all the teachers who have dedicated their lives for teaching. Although teaching is my dream career, I also have weaknesses that could become obstacles in achieving my dream. One of which is impatience, and this is one thing that I would like to eradicate. I am trying my best to do this by being more open-minded and by taking into consideration other people’s feelings. Annie Sullivan, for me, is an epitome of a great teacher. She is the teacher of the famous Helen Keller. I can say she has both the skills and the heart of being a teacher. Educating a blind, deaf, and mute child can never be easy. And being passionate about it makes it even more difficult. And I, with great respect and admiration, believe that Annie Sullivan did her part well and happily. 

Knowing Anne Sullivan’s story, I have learned that she has done so many great things in her life through her teaching profession, and I envy that. Her inspiring story helped me further realize that influencing and transforming other people’s lives is what life is about, and I believe that the teaching profession will help me reach that goal. Deciding and dreaming of becoming a teacher in the future would perhaps be the happiest and most satisfying thing that I have done.

Teaching Requires Skill and Passion

Excellent Work Of Bea Angela T. Lozada Senior – E

CL Minor Project # 1

“I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework.” This quotation said by Lily Tomlin truly defines what teaching is. That is what I really like about teachers and their vocation. They give you not only lessons that will help you excel in academics, but also lessons in life that will define you as a person. You’d probably ask why I’m talking about the teaching profession here. That’s because after listening to what my heart has been saying, I want to pursue the same career. And I am hoping that the closest to me, my family, and everyone else around me will help me achieve this. 

Some may say that teaching requires a lot of skill. But for me, it’s not just about skills. It’s also about passion. You may have the skills of a teacher, but having the heart of one can be difficult to obtain. Teaching also requires passion and obligation, and I put my hands down to all the teachers who have dedicated their lives for teaching. Although teaching is my dream career, I also have weaknesses that could become obstacles in achieving my dream. One of which is impatience, and this is one thing that I would like to eradicate. I am trying my best to do this by being more open-minded and by taking into consideration other people’s feelings. Annie Sullivan, for me, is an epitome of a great teacher. She is the teacher of the famous Helen Keller. I can say she has both the skills and the heart of being a teacher. Educating a blind, deaf, and mute child can never be easy. And being passionate about it makes it even more difficult. And I, with great respect and admiration, believe that Annie Sullivan did her part well and happily. 

Knowing Anne Sullivan’s story, I have learned that she has done so many great things in her life through her teaching profession, and I envy that. Her inspiring story helped me further realize that influencing and transforming other people’s lives is what life is about, and I believe that the teaching profession will help me reach that goal. Deciding and dreaming of becoming a teacher in the future would perhaps be the happiest and most satisfying thing that I have done.

"Ambition"

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Best Work of Marie Vanessa Vergel: CL Minor Project 1 on Vocation/Career Finding

By: Marie Vanessa Vergel

Honestly, I am scared to leave high school. I can't really imagine myself separating from my family and friends. But how can I be stable by myself if I can't move from the past? As my days in my last year in Zobel shorten, I realize that at some point I have to leave some of my past behind in order to be independent and stable in the future. 

Ever since I was in grade school, I have been telling myself that I would want to get a business course for college so that I can help my parents with the family business. Though there are times when my sisters would encourage me to become doctors like them but most of the time i would decline. I have seen both the good and bad sides of being a doctor. It is quite interesting how science and technology could cure lives. I also dream to help those in need but I couldn't see myself in that kind of profession. I have this feeling that I'm more comfortable in being a business woman than a doctor; and i have grown up with business, so i guess i got used to it more.

Future isn't a really big impact for me. I'd rather focus in the present rather than my future. I know that God has a plan for me and whatever plan that might be, I would accept it open-heartedly. I still don't know what profession is set for me but what I am sure of is that I am willed and determined to be successful and stable in life. Right now, my goal is to live my life the fullest, not take things for granted and always thank God for the blessings He gives me everyday.

"Ambition"

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Best Work of Marie Vanessa Vergel: CL Minor Project 1 on Vocation/Career Finding

By: Marie Vanessa Vergel

Honestly, I am scared to leave high school. I can't really imagine myself separating from my family and friends. But how can I be stable by myself if I can't move from the past? As my days in my last year in Zobel shorten, I realize that at some point I have to leave some of my past behind in order to be independent and stable in the future. 

Ever since I was in grade school, I have been telling myself that I would want to get a business course for college so that I can help my parents with the family business. Though there are times when my sisters would encourage me to become doctors like them but most of the time i would decline. I have seen both the good and bad sides of being a doctor. It is quite interesting how science and technology could cure lives. I also dream to help those in need but I couldn't see myself in that kind of profession. I have this feeling that I'm more comfortable in being a business woman than a doctor; and i have grown up with business, so i guess i got used to it more.

Future isn't a really big impact for me. I'd rather focus in the present rather than my future. I know that God has a plan for me and whatever plan that might be, I would accept it open-heartedly. I still don't know what profession is set for me but what I am sure of is that I am willed and determined to be successful and stable in life. Right now, my goal is to live my life the fullest, not take things for granted and always thank God for the blessings He gives me everyday.

"Choosing Happiness"

By: Mikaela Louise Mendiola SR-C

To be honest, I am still not sure of what I want to be in the future. I am unsure if I’m choosing the right path, unsure of what will really make me happy. This year is all about choosing the right course I would want to take up. It means that high school is about to end. College, for me, is all about setting new goals, and pursuing more dreams. 

When school started this year, most of my batch mates were already sure of what they want to take up in college. I am certainly not one of those people. I was nervous of choosing my course at first, because I wasn’t sure if it would really make me happy. I had a course I thought I wanted to take up, but I was nervous of writing it down on the application form. But I figured that I wouldn’t really know if it’s the right course for me unless I go for it, so I did. I chose a business course. I think the reason why I picked it is that we have a family business, so I know a bit of how it works. My parents told me that it can be a good course to take up so I could provide for myself, and so I could help my family. It could help financially when I get a job after I graduate in college. My friends also told me that they think a business course fits my personality. I have always been interested of working in a company, or at least continuing the family business. Since I’ve always been interested in those things, I know I can do a pretty good job on this course. I can be committed on something if it’s really what I want. I guess I already knew what I wanted, but I wasn’t sure of it. I can’t really decide without the help of the people around me. No person can really survive without anyone, I know I can’t. I just hope that this path I chose makes me happy in the future. I hope it makes my family happy in the future. After all, it’s not all about me. They say that it is, but I believe that it should also help the others around me. I just hope everything goes well in the future. 

Choosing the right course would be to choose happiness. Right course would be the one that is worth working hard on. I know I am still uncertain of my course, but I hope that it’s the right course for me. I hope it gives benefit to me and my family in the future. Because of the situation I am in right now, I have learned that those people who have been with you on your happiest days, will be the same people who will be with you on those days when you are having problems. I am talking about my family, my friends, and God most especially. Okay, I just realized something now. I think I shouldn’t be so nervous about this anymore. Because God will be with us along the way, He’ll be there with us always. Do you think He’ll give us a task we can’t do? Of course not, once He gives us a task, do not question why. We are given this task because He knows we can do it. God will be there always. Without God, I am nothing.

"Choosing Happiness"

By: Mikaela Louise Mendiola SR-C

To be honest, I am still not sure of what I want to be in the future. I am unsure if I’m choosing the right path, unsure of what will really make me happy. This year is all about choosing the right course I would want to take up. It means that high school is about to end. College, for me, is all about setting new goals, and pursuing more dreams. 

When school started this year, most of my batch mates were already sure of what they want to take up in college. I am certainly not one of those people. I was nervous of choosing my course at first, because I wasn’t sure if it would really make me happy. I had a course I thought I wanted to take up, but I was nervous of writing it down on the application form. But I figured that I wouldn’t really know if it’s the right course for me unless I go for it, so I did. I chose a business course. I think the reason why I picked it is that we have a family business, so I know a bit of how it works. My parents told me that it can be a good course to take up so I could provide for myself, and so I could help my family. It could help financially when I get a job after I graduate in college. My friends also told me that they think a business course fits my personality. I have always been interested of working in a company, or at least continuing the family business. Since I’ve always been interested in those things, I know I can do a pretty good job on this course. I can be committed on something if it’s really what I want. I guess I already knew what I wanted, but I wasn’t sure of it. I can’t really decide without the help of the people around me. No person can really survive without anyone, I know I can’t. I just hope that this path I chose makes me happy in the future. I hope it makes my family happy in the future. After all, it’s not all about me. They say that it is, but I believe that it should also help the others around me. I just hope everything goes well in the future. 

Choosing the right course would be to choose happiness. Right course would be the one that is worth working hard on. I know I am still uncertain of my course, but I hope that it’s the right course for me. I hope it gives benefit to me and my family in the future. Because of the situation I am in right now, I have learned that those people who have been with you on your happiest days, will be the same people who will be with you on those days when you are having problems. I am talking about my family, my friends, and God most especially. Okay, I just realized something now. I think I shouldn’t be so nervous about this anymore. Because God will be with us along the way, He’ll be there with us always. Do you think He’ll give us a task we can’t do? Of course not, once He gives us a task, do not question why. We are given this task because He knows we can do it. God will be there always. Without God, I am nothing.

"My Goal in Life"

By: Joseph Songco Sr – B

I come from a family of doctors. My grandfather built a hospital in Lipa, Batangas. I used to go with him while he was doing his rounds and sometimes I stay inside his clinic. Just being in the hospital and seeing all the people that we help makes me feel happy. Maybe that is why I became interested in the field of medicine. 

Being a doctor is tough. You will have to deal with problems, fatigue, and pressure. Before you can become one you will have to go through very long courses. You should be hardworking, determined and responsible. I think all that hard work will be worth it in the end because the feeling you get when helping someone is priceless. My Dad told me once that being a doctor is not about the money but it’s about helping. Money is just a bonus. 

I think the most important thing in my life right now is getting in a good college. College will be challenging, so I have to work harder and try not to be lazy. I have to set my goals and priorities. I am older now so I have to become more responsible. 

The most valuable thing that I have learned is that we should never give up. Determination will get you far, not just in being a doctor but also in any profession. Quitting won’t do any good. Another thing that we should always remember is that we should always pray and trust in God and remember that these thing wouldn’t happen if it weren’t for him.

"My Goal in Life"

By: Joseph Songco Sr – B

I come from a family of doctors. My grandfather built a hospital in Lipa, Batangas. I used to go with him while he was doing his rounds and sometimes I stay inside his clinic. Just being in the hospital and seeing all the people that we help makes me feel happy. Maybe that is why I became interested in the field of medicine. 

Being a doctor is tough. You will have to deal with problems, fatigue, and pressure. Before you can become one you will have to go through very long courses. You should be hardworking, determined and responsible. I think all that hard work will be worth it in the end because the feeling you get when helping someone is priceless. My Dad told me once that being a doctor is not about the money but it’s about helping. Money is just a bonus. 

I think the most important thing in my life right now is getting in a good college. College will be challenging, so I have to work harder and try not to be lazy. I have to set my goals and priorities. I am older now so I have to become more responsible. 

The most valuable thing that I have learned is that we should never give up. Determination will get you far, not just in being a doctor but also in any profession. Quitting won’t do any good. Another thing that we should always remember is that we should always pray and trust in God and remember that these thing wouldn’t happen if it weren’t for him.

Justice, Conformity and Peace

Monday, October 11, 2010

Excellent Work by: Freya Elessandra G. Patron

I wanted to be so many things as a child. I wanted to become a cashier in the supermarket because it seemed interesting punching in the prices for the products of others, receiving money and giving out the change to them. Then, I wanted to be the person in charge of toll fees, giving out toll cards and receiving money from the drivers. When I got older, I shifted to new professions, but I still didn’t settle for one. I wanted to become a teacher, mostly because I wanted to check papers, and it just seemed like the type of job where, at the end of the day, something new has happened – the students are unpredictable – and so there’s always something to reflect about and something new to expect the next day. I also wished to be a doctor – a surgeon, to be more exact. It engrossed me, the way surgeons really delve into the bodies of the patients and fix what’s wrong in there. 

It was abstruse, what I wanted to be. It didn’t frustrate me at all though, because I’ve always thought that having a career was still a future thing. When I tried weighing out my weaknesses and strengths to be able to aid me in what I want to be, I never really knew, because I seemed to perform well in all the subjects, with only minor differences in my grades. College kept on drawing near and I suddenly felt insecure, unsure of what I want to be. I knew I had to decide soon. If there’s one thing I can’t stop, it would be time. Time never waits on us.

But God has wonders unimaginable that one day, I just knew.

I knew what I wanted to be. It was very simple. I couldn’t be surer.

It was dinner time. Traditionally, when my family would eat we would talk about current events, especially in our country. That has always interested me unconsciously, just as my father is; it felt like an everyday conversation only. My opinions flowed like water from a stream. There would always be something similar about every issue we would talk about: injustice. There are countless issues in our country – poverty, graft and corruption, greed among many others. Each issue connects with another, and the result is mortifying. 

Injustice has always been prevalent, especially in our country. Even before I was born injustice has already taken many forms – in the abortion of the unborn, the physical, mental and emotional abuse of our citizens, the graft and corruption of the politicians, extra judicial and media killings... These forms have just been passing on, never disappearing. It is hurtful to say the truth that as each year passed injustice became more and more ubiquitous. I have made the most straightforward realization in my life – that just to sit and watch my country bathe itself in the poisonous lake of injustice would be a sin.

This realization changed my life completely. It opened my eyes to a whole new view of the world, the real world. It is in this world that everyone isn’t like me living comfortably in my home. It is a world with dwellers that cannot have a say, not even at the price of their lives. It is a world full of corruption and selfishness. It is a world so divided between the affluent and the hapless. 

Yet it is a world full of hope.

Yes, that’s what I should be: a beacon of hope to others. They need a defender, someone to voice out their concerns when they are not listened to, someone to represent them, giving them confidence to face their predicaments, without any fear that they will not be taken into consideration...

A lawyer. That is what I could be, what I must be, and what I will be.

Everything became clear to me now. I have always been thinking too much about my academic qualifications. That is just, I believe, a part of being an ideal lawyer. What matters more greatly is the selflessness of the heart – and I believe I am fully capable of being selfless; it comes naturally for me. Immediately I am moved to compassion in the simplest situations I experience everyday at home, in school, or anywhere. I did not realize that the traits necessary for me to be a lawyer have been instilled for a long time. I have just been thinking too much of what I should be that I failed to notice it’s all very simple – so simple that my heart yearns for it, it thumps at the very thought of it.

It is true that the path to being an ideal lawyer is operose and toilsome, but it just is all worth it. Right now I am preparing myself for the challenges studying to become one I will face. It is already soon, yet I face it with the kind of anxiety mixed with hopefulness. Not only will I be able to defend others, I will also make my parents proud by showing them they have not wasted any of their hard work for me. I will also fulfil my mother’s dream for herself and for mine. She has always wanted to become a lawyer, but circumstances have hindered her from being so. It all fits perfectly – it something my parents are very supportive of, it is something the world needs, it is something I am wholeheartedly willing to exert effort for. 

But most of all, it is something God has chosen me to do. There are thousands of lawyers out there, but I know I am still special because I know in my heart he has chosen me to be one of the thousand lawyers because with me hardly noticing it, He has been shaping me and leading me to the path of being one. It is like an everyday whisper from God, the experiences I face, the minute demonstrations of my potential of becoming a lawyer through witty arguments and the passion for sacrificing, as long as it makes things better not just for myself, but for others as well. 

The whisper of God, the love of my parents, the inspiration from the daily situations in my life and of our country – these are my beacons of hope. These beacons are shining so brightly that their light has transposed to me, and now I would wake up every morning and thank God because I know what He wants me to be and that clearly gives me something to live for. Now, everything fits. I am no longer hopeless. I am enlightened, and I cannot wait to fulfill my life’s purpose to the greatest extent.

Justice, conformity and peace: what our world needs. What I now live for.

Justice, Conformity and Peace

Monday, October 11, 2010

Excellent Work by: Freya Elessandra G. Patron

I wanted to be so many things as a child. I wanted to become a cashier in the supermarket because it seemed interesting punching in the prices for the products of others, receiving money and giving out the change to them. Then, I wanted to be the person in charge of toll fees, giving out toll cards and receiving money from the drivers. When I got older, I shifted to new professions, but I still didn’t settle for one. I wanted to become a teacher, mostly because I wanted to check papers, and it just seemed like the type of job where, at the end of the day, something new has happened – the students are unpredictable – and so there’s always something to reflect about and something new to expect the next day. I also wished to be a doctor – a surgeon, to be more exact. It engrossed me, the way surgeons really delve into the bodies of the patients and fix what’s wrong in there. 

It was abstruse, what I wanted to be. It didn’t frustrate me at all though, because I’ve always thought that having a career was still a future thing. When I tried weighing out my weaknesses and strengths to be able to aid me in what I want to be, I never really knew, because I seemed to perform well in all the subjects, with only minor differences in my grades. College kept on drawing near and I suddenly felt insecure, unsure of what I want to be. I knew I had to decide soon. If there’s one thing I can’t stop, it would be time. Time never waits on us.

But God has wonders unimaginable that one day, I just knew.

I knew what I wanted to be. It was very simple. I couldn’t be surer.

It was dinner time. Traditionally, when my family would eat we would talk about current events, especially in our country. That has always interested me unconsciously, just as my father is; it felt like an everyday conversation only. My opinions flowed like water from a stream. There would always be something similar about every issue we would talk about: injustice. There are countless issues in our country – poverty, graft and corruption, greed among many others. Each issue connects with another, and the result is mortifying. 

Injustice has always been prevalent, especially in our country. Even before I was born injustice has already taken many forms – in the abortion of the unborn, the physical, mental and emotional abuse of our citizens, the graft and corruption of the politicians, extra judicial and media killings... These forms have just been passing on, never disappearing. It is hurtful to say the truth that as each year passed injustice became more and more ubiquitous. I have made the most straightforward realization in my life – that just to sit and watch my country bathe itself in the poisonous lake of injustice would be a sin.

This realization changed my life completely. It opened my eyes to a whole new view of the world, the real world. It is in this world that everyone isn’t like me living comfortably in my home. It is a world with dwellers that cannot have a say, not even at the price of their lives. It is a world full of corruption and selfishness. It is a world so divided between the affluent and the hapless. 

Yet it is a world full of hope.

Yes, that’s what I should be: a beacon of hope to others. They need a defender, someone to voice out their concerns when they are not listened to, someone to represent them, giving them confidence to face their predicaments, without any fear that they will not be taken into consideration...

A lawyer. That is what I could be, what I must be, and what I will be.

Everything became clear to me now. I have always been thinking too much about my academic qualifications. That is just, I believe, a part of being an ideal lawyer. What matters more greatly is the selflessness of the heart – and I believe I am fully capable of being selfless; it comes naturally for me. Immediately I am moved to compassion in the simplest situations I experience everyday at home, in school, or anywhere. I did not realize that the traits necessary for me to be a lawyer have been instilled for a long time. I have just been thinking too much of what I should be that I failed to notice it’s all very simple – so simple that my heart yearns for it, it thumps at the very thought of it.

It is true that the path to being an ideal lawyer is operose and toilsome, but it just is all worth it. Right now I am preparing myself for the challenges studying to become one I will face. It is already soon, yet I face it with the kind of anxiety mixed with hopefulness. Not only will I be able to defend others, I will also make my parents proud by showing them they have not wasted any of their hard work for me. I will also fulfil my mother’s dream for herself and for mine. She has always wanted to become a lawyer, but circumstances have hindered her from being so. It all fits perfectly – it something my parents are very supportive of, it is something the world needs, it is something I am wholeheartedly willing to exert effort for. 

But most of all, it is something God has chosen me to do. There are thousands of lawyers out there, but I know I am still special because I know in my heart he has chosen me to be one of the thousand lawyers because with me hardly noticing it, He has been shaping me and leading me to the path of being one. It is like an everyday whisper from God, the experiences I face, the minute demonstrations of my potential of becoming a lawyer through witty arguments and the passion for sacrificing, as long as it makes things better not just for myself, but for others as well. 

The whisper of God, the love of my parents, the inspiration from the daily situations in my life and of our country – these are my beacons of hope. These beacons are shining so brightly that their light has transposed to me, and now I would wake up every morning and thank God because I know what He wants me to be and that clearly gives me something to live for. Now, everything fits. I am no longer hopeless. I am enlightened, and I cannot wait to fulfill my life’s purpose to the greatest extent.

Justice, conformity and peace: what our world needs. What I now live for.

"The best that I can be"

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Best CL Project of Rodel S. Joven  Sr. B      

                Whenever a person asks me about what I would be in the future or what would I be doing then. I always ask a question to myself, if ever I’ll be in that position (wherever I maybe in the future) who would benefit from it, is it just me or the many? I ask these questions, because people usually say the letter I over and over, what about the others, where are they? Saying I over and over means that you only think about yourself and doesn’t care about others. For me my future is being the best that I can be in every aspect there is.

             

            My past helped me become the person that I am now. My past had all the struggles, sufferings, sacrifices, pains I ever had and more. Those were the things I placed in my head as my motivation to look forward to the future and change the direction of my life. The important thing here is all the experiences you went through, whether and tough one or a light one doesn’t matter. We need to live with those experiences to help us find solutions to our problems or better yet a way to prevent problems from happening or happening again. What matters to my life today and will ever be is God, my family and friends. Why God? Because He was the reason why I was born, He created me for a reason also; He is my hope when everything is over. I always put in mind, that God has other plans for me then. 

               My Family because they are the ones who guides me and supports me in everything I do. They know what is good for me and what is not good for me. They help me in times of need. They are there no matter what. No exceptions. Next to my family are my friends, they like a family to me. They do the same things as what my family does. The difference is that even in school or wherever your friends can always try to be with you and you know that they won’t leave you no matter what. The three of them are the ones who really matter of me and will always have a mark on me. Adaptation is one of my very powerful skills that I use whenever I’m situated in a different scenario or group with different people. Adaptation is when you can adapt to a certain thing or be able to fit in; this I can say is one of my strength. All people have his/her own weaknesses and/or limitation, mine is whenever I don’t get something I don’t pay attention to it anymore. I lose my focus at times; just a little distraction makes a big impact on me.

           

               The most valuable thing I’ve learned so far is taking care of what I have as of the moment. Because nothing is permanent in the world except change which means anything you have as of now can just be taken from you in a matter of a second or even less. It will hurt whenever someone or something you have or close to you would just vanish without you even telling him/her what you really want to tell or without using it properly. You’ll just regret it every single moment of your life. The best thing I’ve done for someone is carrying them back up whenever they’ve been placed down. I don’t want people bringing brought down. Helping the ones who really need help is one of the things I’ve done has most satisfied me because I know that one day someone will do the same thing to me as says in this quote “do unto others what others do unto you”. As of this moment I am still and listening to my inner voice and asking my inner voice what I can be in the near future. As response I’ll be the best that I can be in whatever thing or whatever doing I’ll do. I’ll make the best out of it. Things that won’t just benefit or satisfy me but the thing that will benefit, satisfy and enlighten the many.

                As a conclusion, We should not only thing of ourselves, we shouldn’t be greedy with things, we shouldn’t be just thinking about ourselves all the time but we should also have time to be still and think about others, help those who are needy and be the one who brings someone up whenever they’re done. Whenever you fall down you always have to choices to choose from, to get back up or just stay down. Getting back up means that you don’t want to lose again, you stand for what you want. While staying down means that you’re just giving up you don’t want to try again. This statement is telling us that there are a lot of people that tells you what to do but the only thing they can do is decide for you. So you have the option for doing what you want. I’ll finish my essay with a saying “don’t just think about yourself, think about the others because those others are thinking about you” 

"The best that I can be"

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Best CL Project of Rodel S. Joven  Sr. B      

                Whenever a person asks me about what I would be in the future or what would I be doing then. I always ask a question to myself, if ever I’ll be in that position (wherever I maybe in the future) who would benefit from it, is it just me or the many? I ask these questions, because people usually say the letter I over and over, what about the others, where are they? Saying I over and over means that you only think about yourself and doesn’t care about others. For me my future is being the best that I can be in every aspect there is.

             

            My past helped me become the person that I am now. My past had all the struggles, sufferings, sacrifices, pains I ever had and more. Those were the things I placed in my head as my motivation to look forward to the future and change the direction of my life. The important thing here is all the experiences you went through, whether and tough one or a light one doesn’t matter. We need to live with those experiences to help us find solutions to our problems or better yet a way to prevent problems from happening or happening again. What matters to my life today and will ever be is God, my family and friends. Why God? Because He was the reason why I was born, He created me for a reason also; He is my hope when everything is over. I always put in mind, that God has other plans for me then. 

               My Family because they are the ones who guides me and supports me in everything I do. They know what is good for me and what is not good for me. They help me in times of need. They are there no matter what. No exceptions. Next to my family are my friends, they like a family to me. They do the same things as what my family does. The difference is that even in school or wherever your friends can always try to be with you and you know that they won’t leave you no matter what. The three of them are the ones who really matter of me and will always have a mark on me. Adaptation is one of my very powerful skills that I use whenever I’m situated in a different scenario or group with different people. Adaptation is when you can adapt to a certain thing or be able to fit in; this I can say is one of my strength. All people have his/her own weaknesses and/or limitation, mine is whenever I don’t get something I don’t pay attention to it anymore. I lose my focus at times; just a little distraction makes a big impact on me.

           

               The most valuable thing I’ve learned so far is taking care of what I have as of the moment. Because nothing is permanent in the world except change which means anything you have as of now can just be taken from you in a matter of a second or even less. It will hurt whenever someone or something you have or close to you would just vanish without you even telling him/her what you really want to tell or without using it properly. You’ll just regret it every single moment of your life. The best thing I’ve done for someone is carrying them back up whenever they’ve been placed down. I don’t want people bringing brought down. Helping the ones who really need help is one of the things I’ve done has most satisfied me because I know that one day someone will do the same thing to me as says in this quote “do unto others what others do unto you”. As of this moment I am still and listening to my inner voice and asking my inner voice what I can be in the near future. As response I’ll be the best that I can be in whatever thing or whatever doing I’ll do. I’ll make the best out of it. Things that won’t just benefit or satisfy me but the thing that will benefit, satisfy and enlighten the many.

                As a conclusion, We should not only thing of ourselves, we shouldn’t be greedy with things, we shouldn’t be just thinking about ourselves all the time but we should also have time to be still and think about others, help those who are needy and be the one who brings someone up whenever they’re done. Whenever you fall down you always have to choices to choose from, to get back up or just stay down. Getting back up means that you don’t want to lose again, you stand for what you want. While staying down means that you’re just giving up you don’t want to try again. This statement is telling us that there are a lot of people that tells you what to do but the only thing they can do is decide for you. So you have the option for doing what you want. I’ll finish my essay with a saying “don’t just think about yourself, think about the others because those others are thinking about you” 

Dream Beyond Limitations

Friday, October 1, 2010

Ado Inigo's Excellent Minor project: "Dream Beyond Limitations"

There comes a point in everyone's lives where we realize what is really important to us. People may not share the same sentiments, but I believe that what is really important are our dreams. I've been told that dreams are meaningless, and that they only matter if they come true. To some extent that is true. Our dreams, however, give us something to strive for, making us work ten times harder, and even when were beaten down so hard, when we look at what we want, we are reminded to never give up. Even if we are not be able to pursue our dreams or achieve certain goals, as long as we try and at the very least take something out of the experience we won't have to live with regret and continue to wonder what if?

This leads me to ask myself, what is my dream? What do I want to do with my life? Given a lot of thought I realize there are two things that I wish to be, one would be filthy rich, and the other a highschool teacher. The first one may seem very shallow, but I have my intentions. I don't want to be rich to make my life easier, but with a lot of money life can actually be more meaningful. When you have money, you should'nt be controlled by it. There are a ton of people who must wake up in the morning and deal with their boss who is younger than them and is a total idiot just to get their paychecks, others have it even worse, some don't even have jobs due to the lack of credentials, and are forced into poverty, they still have to beg because they NEED the money for themselves as well as their families. You can see why money is so important. That is a reason why I can not become a highschool teacher right away. I have to keep my options open, and I will need to support others in my life and not just think about myself. My dream Isn't to become rich per se. I dream to be capacitated enough to help society, I dream to be able to make myself and those around me happy, and lastly I dream to always have a choice to not be bound by anything. I promise myself that after I am able to make a ton of money, I will go and teach. Teachers are very admirable people, they work long and hard hours dealing with restless and difficult students, not for their own personal gain, but to help others. The teachers throughout my time in school have helped me realize this especially my highschool teachers. I promise I will do the same.

While writing this, I've come to learn that people are not robots, though we have physical limitations, the spiritual and emotional aspects of people are limitless. Our dreams for instance, people dream big, can they achieve it? We never really know? But for sure, the minute we say we can't, we lose it all. Yes dreams are hard to follow and the obstacles we face will make us see our supposed "limits", but what's beautiful about man is that they can push back the borders of our so called "limitations" making whatever we want attainable. Our possibilities are endless. God gave us amazing abilities and talents as well as free will for us to use for His greater glory. That's how it is, and that's how it will always be

Dream Beyond Limitations

Friday, October 1, 2010

Ado Inigo's Excellent Minor project: "Dream Beyond Limitations"

There comes a point in everyone's lives where we realize what is really important to us. People may not share the same sentiments, but I believe that what is really important are our dreams. I've been told that dreams are meaningless, and that they only matter if they come true. To some extent that is true. Our dreams, however, give us something to strive for, making us work ten times harder, and even when were beaten down so hard, when we look at what we want, we are reminded to never give up. Even if we are not be able to pursue our dreams or achieve certain goals, as long as we try and at the very least take something out of the experience we won't have to live with regret and continue to wonder what if?

This leads me to ask myself, what is my dream? What do I want to do with my life? Given a lot of thought I realize there are two things that I wish to be, one would be filthy rich, and the other a highschool teacher. The first one may seem very shallow, but I have my intentions. I don't want to be rich to make my life easier, but with a lot of money life can actually be more meaningful. When you have money, you should'nt be controlled by it. There are a ton of people who must wake up in the morning and deal with their boss who is younger than them and is a total idiot just to get their paychecks, others have it even worse, some don't even have jobs due to the lack of credentials, and are forced into poverty, they still have to beg because they NEED the money for themselves as well as their families. You can see why money is so important. That is a reason why I can not become a highschool teacher right away. I have to keep my options open, and I will need to support others in my life and not just think about myself. My dream Isn't to become rich per se. I dream to be capacitated enough to help society, I dream to be able to make myself and those around me happy, and lastly I dream to always have a choice to not be bound by anything. I promise myself that after I am able to make a ton of money, I will go and teach. Teachers are very admirable people, they work long and hard hours dealing with restless and difficult students, not for their own personal gain, but to help others. The teachers throughout my time in school have helped me realize this especially my highschool teachers. I promise I will do the same.

While writing this, I've come to learn that people are not robots, though we have physical limitations, the spiritual and emotional aspects of people are limitless. Our dreams for instance, people dream big, can they achieve it? We never really know? But for sure, the minute we say we can't, we lose it all. Yes dreams are hard to follow and the obstacles we face will make us see our supposed "limits", but what's beautiful about man is that they can push back the borders of our so called "limitations" making whatever we want attainable. Our possibilities are endless. God gave us amazing abilities and talents as well as free will for us to use for His greater glory. That's how it is, and that's how it will always be

"Ambition: It is possible, it is ours"

Paige Lim's Excellent Minor Project in CL-4 (September 2010)

Growing up is hard; anyone who tells you it isn’t is lying. We shift from being that little child dreaming to be a doctor or someone famous someday to a graduating high school student constantly being asked on what he or she wishes to be someday. Some of us, fortunately, already know exactly what we want to be. Some of us are still left wondering, still left confused. We deviate from the carefree life our childhood had and steer towards a much more convoluted life full of decisions--major ones--that would impact our lives forever. Oftentimes we deny how hard our lives are getting. We deny the fact that we have to start thinking about what we really want. We even deny how much we want to be successful someday. We’re too wrapped up in complacency that we push having to deal the difficulties of life aside, becoming too complacent that everything will just fall into place. That’s where we’re all wrong because if we want to get somewhere, we need to start from somewhere. That’s one of the most valuable things that I’ve learned so far. 

I believe that it’s not imperative that we know exactly what we want to be right now. What’s really matters is that you have the tenacity to use what you have now as a means to get to where you want to be in the future. It doesn’t hurt to know what you can and can’t do. I, for one, know that I am not as proficient in the field or science or medicine as I am in other fields. When it comes to literature, I admit that I become, in a sense, somewhat illiterate. Such limitations similar to the aforementioned guided me into finding the field that I see myself in someday--the field of marketing. I may not be sure with what specific professional attainment I wish to attain, but I can start somewhere; I can start with what I can do best. When it comes to mathematics, even if it isn’t exactly my favorite field of study, I know I am apt or can learn quickly. When it comes to retail and visual design, I am cognizant of the fact that I have a certain affinity for them. With that, at least I have somewhere and something to start with.

One thing that led me to want or to decide to choose the field of marketing is that both my parents have chosen that path, and have, therefore, been my role models. They exposed me a variety of professions under the aforementioned field, which in turn, further fueled my interest. My eyes were opened to discover a world where it’s goal is to turn a want into a need in the most creative and innovative ways possible, a world which would challenge you every single day, a world of high risk and high return. They introduced me to a world where complacency, simplicity, and naiveté have no room to exist. I learned that upon choosing this field of profession, I must learn to have a steadfast will, a strong heart, a discerning mind, and an eloquent tongue. To me, those are the definitions of success. Without such qualities, professional success is far beyond reach. Such success is attained when one uses these in dealing with people, handling compromising situations, and making consequential decisions with prudence and practicality. These, my parents have taught me, and forever will they abet me. 

Like I said, growing up in undeniably hard. We are made to live uncomfortable, away from our childish pastimes. We are made to tread floors we aren’t used at all used to, but never will I forget what Ayn Rand once said. He said, “Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the nature of your battle. The world you desired can be won, it exists, it is real, it is possible, it's yours.”

We can’t live a life with the regret that we never had enough courage to start somewhere in pursuing our dreams because that dream, that ambition, is there. All we need is a little push because it can be fulfilled. It can be reach. It is possible; it is ours.

"Ambition: It is possible, it is ours"

Paige Lim's Excellent Minor Project in CL-4 (September 2010)

Growing up is hard; anyone who tells you it isn’t is lying. We shift from being that little child dreaming to be a doctor or someone famous someday to a graduating high school student constantly being asked on what he or she wishes to be someday. Some of us, fortunately, already know exactly what we want to be. Some of us are still left wondering, still left confused. We deviate from the carefree life our childhood had and steer towards a much more convoluted life full of decisions--major ones--that would impact our lives forever. Oftentimes we deny how hard our lives are getting. We deny the fact that we have to start thinking about what we really want. We even deny how much we want to be successful someday. We’re too wrapped up in complacency that we push having to deal the difficulties of life aside, becoming too complacent that everything will just fall into place. That’s where we’re all wrong because if we want to get somewhere, we need to start from somewhere. That’s one of the most valuable things that I’ve learned so far. 

I believe that it’s not imperative that we know exactly what we want to be right now. What’s really matters is that you have the tenacity to use what you have now as a means to get to where you want to be in the future. It doesn’t hurt to know what you can and can’t do. I, for one, know that I am not as proficient in the field or science or medicine as I am in other fields. When it comes to literature, I admit that I become, in a sense, somewhat illiterate. Such limitations similar to the aforementioned guided me into finding the field that I see myself in someday--the field of marketing. I may not be sure with what specific professional attainment I wish to attain, but I can start somewhere; I can start with what I can do best. When it comes to mathematics, even if it isn’t exactly my favorite field of study, I know I am apt or can learn quickly. When it comes to retail and visual design, I am cognizant of the fact that I have a certain affinity for them. With that, at least I have somewhere and something to start with.

One thing that led me to want or to decide to choose the field of marketing is that both my parents have chosen that path, and have, therefore, been my role models. They exposed me a variety of professions under the aforementioned field, which in turn, further fueled my interest. My eyes were opened to discover a world where it’s goal is to turn a want into a need in the most creative and innovative ways possible, a world which would challenge you every single day, a world of high risk and high return. They introduced me to a world where complacency, simplicity, and naiveté have no room to exist. I learned that upon choosing this field of profession, I must learn to have a steadfast will, a strong heart, a discerning mind, and an eloquent tongue. To me, those are the definitions of success. Without such qualities, professional success is far beyond reach. Such success is attained when one uses these in dealing with people, handling compromising situations, and making consequential decisions with prudence and practicality. These, my parents have taught me, and forever will they abet me. 

Like I said, growing up in undeniably hard. We are made to live uncomfortable, away from our childish pastimes. We are made to tread floors we aren’t used at all used to, but never will I forget what Ayn Rand once said. He said, “Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the nature of your battle. The world you desired can be won, it exists, it is real, it is possible, it's yours.”

We can’t live a life with the regret that we never had enough courage to start somewhere in pursuing our dreams because that dream, that ambition, is there. All we need is a little push because it can be fulfilled. It can be reach. It is possible; it is ours.