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ATENEO DE MANILA UNIVERSITY ADMISSION REQUIREMENT:

PERSONAL ESSAY

Are there any significant experiences you have had, or accomplishments you have realized, that have helped to define you as a person?

 

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD OF LIFE

 

            For fifteen years I have walked through this long and winding road; I was relentless, or even ruthless, for not even once I have tried to deter myself from crossing it. I have walked this road through thick and thin – it served as my guide in all my endeavors, especially during those times of despair and desperation. As I pave my way to success, I have unconsciously molded “the real me”, a persona which I have certainly created.

            Countless sets of experiences molded me as to what I am today – through hard work and effort I have attained my stand as one of the top achievers in school, and through constant learning I became a student leader. I have competed on numerous quiz bees, research and development activities, essay writing and poster-making contests, and literary-musical contests alike. I have commuted through the tricycles of Puerto Princesa alone, walked the lengths of the streets in search of my needs, faced the raging flames and built houses, and walked through the sticky mud to plant trees – all inspired by my aspiration to succeed. However, these cannot suffice the things I have learned throughout my time with several children – or rather, a sickly boy of six.

            A month ago, my classmates and I visited a certain Gawad Kalinga site in a rural area, wherein we have been given the task of assisting the malnourished and impoverished children of the community. This is something we are familiar with, for we have been doing this every year; however, this particular event had something that is incomparable to others – especially in terms of the children’s physical, and social abilities. At first, I was reluctant to go, for one is that I had little interest in social activities, especially to those kinds of exhausting events such as catechism and feeding. Still, I have never imagined that this particular event would have such an impact on me.

            On the big day, we were assigned to feed and teach a number of graders; and for that matter, I visualized that these kids would be the same as before: naughty, reluctant, hostile, and egotistic. However, my eyes said otherwise – as I entered the room, puppy-eyed kids greeted me with innocent looks on their faces. Being the group leader, I was the one in charge of the activities: I led the class discussion, and I facilitated them in their social proceedings. I helped them prepare for their meals; I walked to and fro from the site just to bring to them their food, and let them replenish themselves. Everything was going as usual until one kid asked me a question that I have never thought will be asked of: “Ate, why are you doing this?”

            I was astounded. Something was tugging at my mind, to tell him that I was there just to comply with my requirements. However, somewhere deep in my heart, I knew it wasn’t true. I looked at the kid. He was just a mere 6-year old boy. To be able to stop me into my tracks was something I never thought he would be capable of, or even try. Before I got the chance to give him my reply, he continued: “Aren’t you getting tired of this? Many of you go here everyday,” with his face showing melancholy, he added, “...but only a few of you are sincere in your deeds.”

            I swallowed the things that were left unsaid. I was completely overwhelmed. I do not know how to reply, or even act. My mind started to wander. I was left completely blank.

            At a young age he had lost his home, turned together into ashes as a fire broke 6 years ago in a certain barangay beneath our school. Now, he was blessed with a pleasant home and a privilege to be educated, but somehow, he was still left unsatisfied.

            From there I realized that having life’s pleasures isn’t something to be reckoned with, but rather be appreciated. I felt an overwhelming sense of need: a need to be able to make others happy, just like what I had been when I’m with them. “No,” I answered, “it’s not like that. I just simply want to make you kids happy.”

            His face lit up. He completely changed his expression, for he was now overjoyed. He then went back straight to the camp, ready to mingle with the other kids. As he went down, I heard a faint “thank you”. A playful smile traced my lips as I realized that it was meant for me.

            I never thought that one event can change the way I view things. Perhaps, if he were given a chance to be in my place, would he even be happy? For years I have thought that catechism is boring; however, it has drastically changed. From that day on, I was looking forward to our next meeting – not only with him, but between me and the kids. I know I’ll be able to change someone, just as how that little boy changed me.

            And for the fifteen years I have spent through that road, I have felt that something relevant is missing in my life. Yes, for once, I had been reluctant.  But now, I had been welcoming the idea of outreach programs with outstretched arms, and a sincere heart – to the extent of even pestering Ms. Operiano about the next outreach program. Because of a mere catechism event and an innocent child, the gap I have once felt present has been filled. Now, I walk side by side with my brethren – passing through that long and winding road up ahead.