CAMPUS CROSSWALK

CAMPUS CROSSWALK

VISION

“Great commitment to the Great Commandment and the Great Commission will empower a great youth.”

MISSION

“The Campus Crosswalk desires that students from all walks of life will be inspired to lead an exceptional living academically, emotionally and spiritually by introducing Christ to them.”

The Pulantubig Church of Christ’s campus ministry exists to glorify God by gathering college-aged students in worship, study, prayer, community, and service. We desire to see and play an intricate part in the spiritual awakening of the next generation.

HISTORY

The Great Commandment is to love. The Great Commission is to spread the Good News to all the ends of the earth (Matthew 28:16-20).

We are not interested in simply giving intellectual consent to God, but instead seek to be freed by Him from the “bondage of decay” that plagues our world. We hope that as we experience and come to know the one, true God that our lives and our world will be drastically changed. We welcome people from all walks of life, regardless of personal background or religious experience or affiliation, to come and join us on this journey.

The Campus Crosswalk is designed to serve the high school students of Negros Oriental High school (NOHS) and the college students of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU). Other students coming from different schools are very welcome as well.

It is characterized with the following services:

1.       Cell group discussions

2.       Counseling

3.       Prayers

4.       Medical and other consultations

5.       Financial Sponsorship

Specific Objectives of Our Ministry. 

Introducing others to Jesus

¨ Recognize that our whole existence is centered upon Jesus and his teachings. 

¨ Model an evangelistic spirit and promote this spirit among the students and within the Clemson church family. 

¨ Plan fun activities that will attract students and promote friendship evangelism. 

¨ Structure activities that target and reach out to un-churched students. 

¨ Train and encourage students to share their faith and equip them for an evangelistic lifestyle.  

Serving an Awesome God

¨ Train, model and promote growth among students in their spiritual walk with Christ. 

¨ Plan and coordinate student devotionals.

¨ Occasionally share in leading congregational devotional services and preaching.

¨ Participate in the worship assemblies as a servant and a leader within the Clemson church.

Provide a Place to Belong

¨ Coordinate planned campus ministry activities that reflect Biblical objectives.

¨ Assist students in connecting with and becoming fully involved in the faith community of Tigers for Christ and of the Clemson Church of Christ.

¨ Clearly communicate agendas and activities to those directly involved in the campus ministry and to the Clemson church as a whole.

¨ Function as a team player within the church leadership and ministry staff.

Responding to the call of discipleship

¨ Model a Christ-centered life and promote the development of Christ-centered students, who are prepared to follow Jesus throughout their lives.

¨ Plan and implement the college class educational program, coordinating classes with the ministers and teachers of the Clemson church.

¨ Create and promote educational opportunities by fostering a deep regard for Scripture, encouraging faith formation and development, nurturing godly relationships, and facilitating an outreach to the lost.

¨ Offer personal consultation to guide young adults in matters of spirituality, maturity, and behavior.

¨ In group activities and individual interactions with students, mentor them in following our Lord Jesus Christ.

Reaching Out to Serve

¨ Demonstrate the heart of a servant and the leadership abilities necessary to organize and coordinate ministry opportunities for students to serve one another, the church family, and those in need within the community and on campus.

¨ Encourage students to identify, develop and use their personal giftedness to God and to others, equipping them for a lifetime of service.

¨ Involve members of the congregation in the campus ministry and involve students in congregational ministry.

Application Letter for Teaching

June 17, 2012

NAME

Dumaguete Agape Chinese Christian Academy

Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental

Madame:

Greetings!

I am Mr. Junrey Belando applying for a teaching position in your prestigious institution. I have completed all requirements for the Bachelor of Education in Negros Oriental State University.

I have been teaching for almost three years as a Sunday School Teacher in Pulantubig Church of Christ, and for one semester in Negros Oriental State University. I enjoy student-teacher supervision very much, and I consider such applied responsibilities to be among the most important contributions I can make toward the education of children.

I look forward to an opportunity to meet with you and further discuss my qualifications. Thank you and more power.

I believe that my training and previous work experiences qualify me to handle the job efficiently. On top of these competencies, I adhere to a work ethic and can effectively interact with children.

Hoping for your positive response. Thank you very much.

Very sincerely yours,

JUNREY R. BELANDO

Applicant

Alaala ng Isang Ama

SIYA ang dahilan kung bakit naging bukod tangi ang aking pagkatao. Siya ang dahilan kung bakit sa mundong ito nagkaroon ng pagkakataon ang isang Junrey na makipagsapalaran. Siya ang dahilan kung bakit buo ang aming pamilya.

Oo, siya si Tatay- ang haligi ng aming pamilya.

Hindi matatawaran ang kanyang halaga sa aming mag-anak. Kung hindi dahil sa kanya ay maaring hindi rin kami nag-eexist sa mundong uto. Dahil kay Tatay, nagkaroon kami ng takot sa Diyos. Dahil sa kanya, natuto kaming magkakapatid upang maging uliran at kasiya-siya sa mata ng pamayanan at sa mata ng Diyos. Nang dahil kay Itay, namulat kaming mag-anak na igalang ang mga nakakatanda at pahalagahan ang mga magulang. Laking pasasalamat ang aming sambit sa Diyos dahil binigyan N'ya kami ng isang tatay.  Yes, binigyan N'ya kami ng isang mapagmahal, matapang, at masipag na isang ama.

Natatandaan ko pa, maaga siyang gumising sa umaga upang magtrabaho. Sa gitna ng tindi ng sikat ng araw, naroon pa rin siya sa "farm," kasama ang kanyang kalabaw, nag-araro. Kahit pagod ay hindi namin naratnan ang tatay na nagko-"complain." May oras pa nga siya upang makipaglaro sa amin. Sa kabilang panig, habang abala naman ang Inay sa pag-aalaga sa aming magkakapatid, naroon din ang Itay upang tulungan kaming mamulat sa mga wastong pag-uugali. 

Ngayong wala na siya sa piling namin, tanging alaala na lang ng Itay ang nanatiling buhay sa piling naming mag-anak. Dagok ang narating ng aming pamilya simula nung siya ay pumanaw. Sa isip at puso ko, buhay pa rin ang Itay. Hind maikakaila na hanggang ngayon, halos nangungulila pa rin ako sa aking ama. Maging sa panaginip, dumadalaw pa rin ang aming masasayang alaala.

Oo, nanatiling buhay si Itay sa aking alaala. Ito lamang ang tangi kong paraan upang maibsan man lang ang dinaramdam kong pangungulila. Inaamin kong naiinggit ako sa mga kakilala kong kapiling pa rin ang kani-kanilang ama. Gustung-gusto ko pa rin ng isang ama- na kapiling mo araw-araw, masisilayan mo sa bawat paggising sa umaga at bago matulog sa  gabi, malalapitan mo sa lahat ng oras, makakausap mo sa tuwing kailangan mong kausapin, at higit sa lahat, isang "father figure" na mapapadama mong proud ka na naging anak ka niya. Ang tanging nagbibigay sa akin ng di matatawarang saya sa ngayon ay ang pakiramdam sa tuwing may isang ama na nagpapadama sa akin at tinuturing akong kanyang anak.

Patuloy akong nangungulila. Patuloy akong umaasa. At sa bawat pagdaloy ng aking luha, kasabay naman nito ang isang damdaming nananampalataya- na kahit papaano, naging masaya si Itay sa aming piling. At lagi kong isinasapuso na sa lahat ng mga bagay, kahit hindi man niya nakikita at nararamdaman, I always see to it that he will be proud of us; that he will be so proud of me.

I miss you, Pa.

Youth in Action: EL MIGHTY BOND

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13

With the theme, "EL MIGHTY BOND," various young people, young professionals and youth communities of the Churches of Christ all over the province of Negros Oriental join together in a splendid and happy occasion last March 29-30, 2012. The two-day event was hosted by the Sojourners (the young leaders of Pulantubig Church of Christ) and in coordination with the Church in Pulantubig, Dumaguete City.

The event was essentially organized as an outlet in order to strengthen the might bond between the young people of the Churches of Christ in Negros Oriental and with God, the Sovereign Creator. Series of activities enriched with fun, excitement, thrill and adventure characterized the entire event. Get-together activities, awareness and capacity-building activities were effectively conducted. During the last night, most of the participants swore their commitment to be more serious with their spiritual journey. Pastors were also present who prayed for all who participated in the activity.

FIRST DAY: That Day Was It

It was a sunny day, the sun was brightly shining. The gazing rays of the sun seemed to welcome a great and wonderful experience to everyone. The clock ticked at 1:00 in the afternoon and I was sure that many of the participants are about to come. Yes, I was right. First of them was the group from the Bais City Church of Christ led by the former Sojourners Pastor, Janno Austria. He was with his young people including his brother and others. Then came all the other participants before 5:00 p.m.. At 3 o'clock, I hurried on my way for a graduation speech engagement in Camanjac national High School. Good thing that my "father," Pastor Frank Tenchavez took me for a ride so I was just on time.

That day, I delivered a speech- a speech that was intended to uplift and encourage the youth.  The experience when you are in front of the graduating class, and you are expected to share them your own insights and learning experiences in life is truly amazing. It feels satisfying to know that God use your identity in order to cheer and encourage others. What's more amazing is the fact that behind you are the very important people who shaped your personality and helped you to stand where you now stand. To my mentors, thank you! To my alma mater, viva!

Anyway, that was it! I was so happy for the warm accommodation that I experienced. At around 6 in the evening, I have to rush back to the Church where I have to facilitate some of the introductory activities. Presto! I saw that all participants were so eager and excited. They were warmly welcomed by no less than the Chair of the Board of Officers, Atty. May Flor Duka.

The rest  of the night were filled with getting to know activities as all participants were with their respective group as arranged by the organizers. There were Orange, Yellow, White, Pink and Green Teams.

SECOND DAY: Let's Get Back

The day was opened through the facilitator's devotion early dawn. Then participants were guided to the Silliman Beach where they had their early morning Quiet Time.

It was pretty sure that everyone gripped the best of the opportunities while learning the Word of God and at the same time enjoying the company of the newly found friends who are also fellow Christians. They were all gathered together for the "Amazing Race" whole afternoon.



Brother Emmanuel Gonzales, the president of Sojourners expressed his warmest thanks to all who joined and participated actively in the activity. He also expressed his thanks to one and all who supported in financing and in praying for the success of the event.

The EL MIGHTY BOND were participated in Ajong Church of Christ, Bais City Church of Christ, Tanjay Church of Christ, and Dumaguete Christian Church.


The success of the activity were the combined effort of the Church itself and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The Second Best Asset that You Should Never Let Go

Can one man stand alone without his friend?

Most of us would certainly answer, a big NO in times when asked of hat question. Often times, it would be a hard thing for one to lost a friend.

For us Filipinos, we grow up in a society that believes in the importance of our friends in life. When we were young, we notice that our parents work with their friends, talked with them, and above all share life's experiences with them- through thick and thin. This bond continued to exist moving forward to the point wherein we also develop and establish common friendship from one generation to the other.

Friends, they say are your partner in good times and even in bad times. They inspire you to achieve your goals. They encourage you to be cheerful when you are sad and lonely. They laugh when you laugh and they remain in your side when you think you are left alone. They are your constant guidance and care. They satisfy your hunger for love. They make you more happy. They teach you how to stand.

If I were to be asked, I will never let go anyone whom I consider as a friend. However, I will always spend my time thanking my God for sending me to this world where I learned how to deal with my friends. Real friends can really treat you well and can make your life more colorful and meaningful. They are the second best asset  next to God that you should never let go.

Rosas ng Tagumpay

"Ang bawat isa sa atin ay biniyayaan ng Diyos sa kakayahang magtagumpay sa anumang tatahaking larangan. Magtatagumpay ka, anuman ang pangarap mo, maging sino ka man, mayaman ka man o mahirap."

Madalas kong naririnig at nababasa ang ganitong uri ng paalala. At sa tuwing naiisip ko ito, unti-unting tumitibay ang aking paniniwala na maabot at makamtan ang rurok ng tagumpay sa aking minimithi sa buhay- ang maging isang ganap na tagapagtaguyod ng pag-ibig ng Diyos. Bawat isa sa ay may pangarap at batid kong lahat ay may kakayahang makamtan ang mga pangarap. Sa aking murang isipan, alam ko na may mga hakbang na dapat isagawa upang ang mithiin ko'y makamit.

Una, kinailangan kong maging maagap at seryoso sa buhay. Ang bawat oras ay mahalagang oportunidad upang maisagawa ang mga makabuluhang bagay sa buhay. Iiwasan ko ang pag-aaksaya sa aking oras sa pamamagitan nang di paggugol nito sa mga bagay-bagay na maituturing kong balakid lamang. Sinasabing ang oras ay ginto. Bawat oras ay mayroong kaakibat na halaga at nararapat lamang na hindi ko ito sasayangin. Pangalawa, nararapat na positibo ang aking pananaw upang harapin ang anumang balakid sa buhay habang tinatahak ko ang landas patungo sa rurok ng tagumpay. Iisipin kong lagi ang mga taong nagbibigay sa akin ng inspirasyon at gayahin ang ulirang birtud na aking nakikita sa kanila.

Sinasabing ang ating buhay dito sa mundong ibabaw ay hindi pawang matiwasay at kaligayahan; may mga suliraning ding pilit bumabalakid at madalas, ang mga suliraning ito ang nagpapatibay sa aking sarili upang mas mapabubuti ko pa ang aking sarili bilang paghahanda sa hinaharap. Pangatlo, aangkinin ko ang mga kapuri-puring ugali at mga pagpapahalaga sa buhay. Sisikapin kong hindi ako mapariwara at tuluyang mawala sa tamang landas ng buhay. At higit sa lahat, patuloy akong mananalig sa Kanya. Mananatiling buo at matibay ang aking loob sa pagharap sa mga suliranin sapagkat alam kong sa bawat araw, Siya ay lagi kong kasama- sa lungkot man o sa ligaya.

 Para sa akin, ang buhay ng tao ay parang isang rosas. Ang matamis na halimuyak nito ay maihahambing sa inaasam na tagumpay samantalang ang mga tinik naman nito ay ang mga balakid. Tunay na kaasam-asam ang halimuyak ng tagumpay. Gagawin ko ang lahat upang sa bandang huli, hindi ko mailalagay sa kahihiyan ang aking sarili. Gagawin ko ang lahat upang sa bandang huli, maipagmamalaki ako ng aking mga magulang, mga kapatid, at mga mahal sa buhay.
Sa bandang huli, alam kong malalasap ko ang matamis na  halimuyak sa rosas ng buhay.

 :)

People think it is holding on that makes you stronger, but sometimes it’s letting go.

 

True to me, I have decided to redirect the usual routine I was trapped in. Yes, I was trapped into this day-to-day routine when I was too meek and had to nod to every favor they are going to entrust me. All I can do is to work hard enough to satisfy my desire to say yes to everything, to everyone at the expense of my physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Yes, I can say that I was not good at all, because I let them enslave me and allowed myself to obey them all; hence, I was not able to have the chance to develop and stand. It may be too awkward to say these but with my twenty-two years of existence, I am not that dumb to utter insensible things. It is just that I am now an educated individual- a person who uses his intellect and applies it in order to elevate his level. I may not be like those well-known philosophers who are able to express reasons freely but with this knowledge and will endowed to me by the Mighty God, I believe it is prompt and proper that I stand up and prove them all, that I exist in this world not to be their "slave" all the time. 

 With the belief that I cannot be here on earth forever, I tried the best I can and acted as though each day is my last. This is because I am true to myself and to acquaint myself with  the standard not of men but the standard set in accordance to what is highly moral and upright in the sight of God. This is the reason why I realized to let go. Yes, I let go of the past in order for me to face the present. My attitude shown in the present will determine the kinds of fruits that I will reap in the future. After all, it is by letting go that makes me strong. 

I Praise You Lord because You Are!

Lord, You are my Light. The darkness in my world seemed to me like an obstacle that I had to conquer. I was blinded from the bounties that You Lord has in store. There was no one to guide me in my journey. NO one dared but You, oh Lord showed me Your Light and has given me HOPE to pursue righteousness and live with You. Thank you for loving me!

Lord, you are my Redeemer. I was in a pit of of sin, enslaved by my human desire. Your eyes were in tears watching me. My craving for a good life enveloped me but I did not know that you has prepared a better life for me. After seeing my struggles, You reached out Your caring hand and here I am, trapped no more from the pit. The warmth of your embrace has shown me that I am already free in Jesus! Thank you for being my Redeemer!

Answered Prayer

I ask God to forgive me. 

I broke my promise not to be in-love again. I thought I will never feel this way again after my heartache back when I wa in college. But what is happening now? God forbid, but I had fallen into this pit where love enslaves my senses. I know this is not right at my status now- the fact that I still have a family to feed. 

I ask God to forgive me. 

But what else can I do? Dumating siya sa buhay ko nang hindi ko inaasahan. Siya ang tanging tao na nakamulat sa aking isipan at kamusmusan sa mundo ng pag-ibig. Siya rin ang taong nagbigay sa akin ng inspirasyon upang sa bawat araw, alagaan ko ang aking sarili- tulad ng kanyang pag-aalaga sa akin, though we are separated miles apart. Siya ang bukod-tanging nagpadama sa akin ng tunay na pagmamahal. And above all, this special someone is an "answered prayer."

I ask God to forgive me. 

I'm in love. Each day is a cheerful day because I may not see and be with this ""love"" but it just seems that my "love" is right here beside me- smiling when I smile, laughing when I laugh, and crying when I cry. 

I ask God to forgive me. 

This is the first time I ever feel this way. And I don't want to end this. Love it!!!

The Question of the Best Personality

One's experiences determine the kind of personality that one will have.

Often times, these experiences allow ourselves to expose our deep desires and expectations. This however, does not necessarily mean that such experiences are all beneficial in building up the personality of an individual. Whatever these experiences are, one's personality is being manifested through how a person deal with the situation. Sometimes, one has a mixture of these personality types as well.

Here are the sixteen types of personalities as quantified and qualified by authorities in the field of Psychology. Can you identify which personality do you have?

ISTJ

Serious and quiet, interested in security and peaceful living. Extremely thorough, responsible, and dependable. Well-developed powers of concentration. Usually interested in supporting and promoting traditions and establishments. Well-organized and hard working, they work steadily towards identified goals. They can usually accomplish any task once they have set their mind to it.

ISTP

Quiet and reserved, interested in how and why things work. Excellent skills with mechanical things. Risk-takers who they live for the moment. Usually interested in and talented at extreme sports. Uncomplicated in their desires. Loyal to their peers and to their internal value systems, but not overly concerned with respecting laws and rules if they get in the way of getting something done. Detached and analytical, they excel at finding solutions to practical problems.

ISFJ

Quiet, kind, and conscientious. Can be depended on to follow through. Usually puts the needs of others above their own needs. Stable and practical, they value security and traditions. Well-developed sense of space and function. Rich inner world of observations about people. Extremely perceptive of other's feelings. Interested in serving others.

ISFP

Quiet, serious, sensitive and kind. Do not like conflict, and not likely to do things which may generate conflict. Loyal and faithful. Extremely well-developed senses, and aesthetic appreciation for beauty. Not interested in leading or controlling others. Flexible and open-minded. Likely to be original and creative. Enjoy the present moment.

INFJ

Quietly forceful, original, and sensitive. Tend to stick to things until they are done. Extremely intuitive about people, and concerned for their feelings. Well-developed value systems which they strictly adhere to. Well-respected for their perserverence in doing the right thing. Likely to be individualistic, rather than leading or following.

INFP

Quiet, reflective, and idealistic. Interested in serving humanity. Well-developed value system, which they strive to live in accordance with. Extremely loyal. Adaptable and laid-back unless a strongly-held value is threatened. Usually talented writers. Mentally quick, and able to see possibilities. Interested in understanding and helping people.

INTJ

Independent, original, analytical, and determined. Have an exceptional ability to turn theories into solid plans of action. Highly value knowledge, competence, and structure. Driven to derive meaning from their visions. Long-range thinkers. Have very high standards for their performance, and the performance of others. Natural leaders, but will follow if they trust existing leaders.

INTP

Logical, original, creative thinkers. Can become very excited about theories and ideas. Exceptionally capable and driven to turn theories into clear understandings. Highly value knowledge, competence and logic. Quiet and reserved, hard to get to know well. Individualistic, having no interest in leading or following others.

ESTP

Friendly, adaptable, action-oriented. "Doers" who are focused on immediate results. Living in the here-and-now, they're risk-takers who live fast-paced lifestyles. Impatient with long explanations. Extremely loyal to their peers, but not usually respectful of laws and rules if they get in the way of getting things done. Great people skills.

ESTJ

Practical, traditional, and organized. Likely to be athletic. Not interested in theory or abstraction unless they see the practical application. Have clear visions of the way things should be. Loyal and hard-working. Like to be in charge. Exceptionally capable in organizing and running activities. "Good citizens" who value security and peaceful living.

ESFP

People-oriented and fun-loving, they make things more fun for others by their enjoyment. Living for the moment, they love new experiences. They dislike theory and impersonal analysis. Interested in serving others. Likely to be the center of attention in social situations. Well-developed common sense and practical ability.

ESFJ

Warm-hearted, popular, and conscientious. Tend to put the needs of others over their own needs. Feel strong sense of responsibility and duty. Value traditions and security. Interested in serving others. Need positive reinforcement to feel good about themselves. Well-developed sense of space and function.

ENFP

Enthusiastic, idealistic, and creative. Able to do almost anything that interests them. Great people skills. Need to live life in accordance with their inner values. Excited by new ideas, but bored with details. Open-minded and flexible, with a broad range of interests and abilities.

ENFJ

Popular and sensitive, with outstanding people skills. Externally focused, with real concern for how others think and feel. Usually dislike being alone. They see everything from the human angle, and dislike impersonal analysis. Very effective at managing people issues, and leading group discussions. Interested in serving others, and probably place the needs of others over their own needs.

ENTP

Creative, resourceful, and intellectually quick. Good at a broad range of things. Enjoy debating issues, and may be into "one-up-manship". They get very excited about new ideas and projects, but may neglect the more routine aspects of life. Generally outspoken and assertive. They enjoy people and are stimulating company. Excellent ability to understand concepts and apply logic to find solutions.

ENTJ

Assertive and outspoken - they are driven to lead. Excellent ability to understand difficult organizational problems and create solid solutions. Intelligent and well-informed, they usually excel at public speaking. They value knowledge and competence, and usually have little patience with inefficiency or disorganization.

The personality types described above show us that each person is a unique individual. One  may or may not be appraised because of his/her personality type. But what's more important,  based on my EXPERIENCES, is that how one deals with the situation. At the end of the day, the ultimate happiness or success of a person does not rely on the type of personality he has but on how his personality helped him stand and reach his destination.

=)

Medalya at Pag-asa

Aminin man natin po o hindi, bawat isa ay may itinatagong lihim. Mga lihim na maaring gusto mong ibaon sa limot at muling mamuhay nang payapa, taliwas sa nangyari sa nakaraan. Ngunit, hindi maikakaila na minsan sa iyong buhay, ay namamayani ang kakaibang pakiramdam na wari ay dinuduyan ka sa langit.

Oo, maaring nagkamali ka ngunit ang katotohanang ikaw ay naging masaya minsan ay isang maipagmamalaki mo at maihaharap na naging matagumpay ka. At ito ang kwento ng aking pagbangon mula sa pagkawasak ng aming pamilya. Ito ang hindi ko malilimutang daloy ng aking buhay na tumatak na sa kaibuturan ng aking puso at diwa.

Magandang araw po sa inyo! Tawagin n’yo po akong si Rey, 22 years old, isang young professional mula sa Dumaguete City.

Nais kong ibahagi sa inyo ang kwento ng aking buhay at nawa ay mapupulotan ng inspirasyon at leksyon lalo na sa mga pamilyang Pilipino at mapaghuhugutan ng inspirasyon ng mga kabataan.

Bata pa lang kami ay binuhay kaming limang magkakapatid sa wastong pag-uugali, at may takot sa Diyos. Kaya naman mula sa panganay na anak hanggang sa pinakabunso, kaming lahat ay may respeto sa isa’t isa at masisipag sa pag-aaral.

Sa katunayan, bagamat lampara lamang ang nagsisilbing ilaw sa aming bahay, maituturing pa ring masaya at kaaya-aya ang aming munting pamilya.

Sa kanyang pagiging magsasaka, naitaguyod ni Itay ang aming pamilya. Habang abala si Inay sa pag-aalaga sa amig magkakapatid, todo kayod naman si Itay sa kanyang pagsasaka.

Dahil sa gipit ng panahon, kinailangan naming umalis sa kinagisnan kong lupa at manahanan na sa Dumaguete City. Taong 1996 ang kauna-unahan kong dating ditto sa Dumaguete. Kaiba sa nayon, malapit kami sa sibilisasyon kaya naman kahit mahirap, madali lang naman palang makibagay sa siyudad. Mula noon, nasanay na kaming mag-anak at mas napabuti pa naming mga anak ang aming pag-aaral.

Datapwat mahirap lamang ang aming pamilya hindi iyon naging hadlang upang makapag-aral kaming magkakapatid. Bagkus ay naging kilala kami sa aming pinapasukan kasi lahat kami ay biniyayaan ng matalinong pag-iisip. Masasabi kong ang kahirapan ay hindi hadlang upang makatapos ng pag-aaral kasi sa akin mismo nangyari ang ganitong karanasan. Pinuri ako ng mga guro, principal at mga opisyal ng barangay dahil sa extraordinary performance na ipinamalas ko sa aking pag-aaral. Sa katunayan, ako ang karaniwang ginawang halimbawa ng mga guro sa kanilang pag-iinspire sa mga mag-aaral sa school naming noong nag-aaral pa ako. Kahit wala akong baon sa eskwela, patuloy pa rin ang aking pagpupursige. Minsan, umiinom na lang ako ng mga tubiog sa gripo upang may maipasok sa aking tiyan sa panahon kung ako ay nagugutom sa paaralan. Wala rin kaming kuryente sa bahay kaya pinagtiisan kong mag-aral ng mga aralin sa gabi gamit lamang ang isang lamparilya.

Ako ang pambato n gaming paaralan sa tuwing may mga paligsahan sa DepEd kaya naman aktibo ako at ulirang mag-aaral. Dahil sa mga napanalunan kong kompetisyon, nakarating ako sa mga lugar tulad ng Cebu City at Bohol- bagay na ikinakatuwa at maipagmamalaki ko at n gaming pamilya. Liban sa curricular activities, naging aktibo rin akong kasapi ng school paper at pupil government kaya naman ako ang inaasahan nila sa mga ganito at iba pang larangan mula elementary hanggang haiskul. Nagbunga naman talaga ang aking pagsisikap. Sa kabila ng aming kahirapan, ako ang pinarangalan bilang valedictorian sa elementary and high school. Nakamit ko rin ang marami pang parangal katulad ng Leadership Award, Senate Medal on Academic Excellence, at marami pang iba.

Sa kabila ng ganitong mga papuri at magandang karanasan, hindi pa rin nagbago ang pagiging mabuting Kristiyano, ulirang anak, at kapatid.

Ngunit nasubok ang aking katatagan ng loob noong biglang nagkasakit si Itay. Napag-alamang mayroon siyang dinaramdam kaya’t hindi na pinayagan ng doctor na magtrabaho. Sa loob ng dalawang taon, nakaratay siya sa kama. Upang matustusan ang aming pangangailangang mag-anak, namasukan bilang kasambahay an gaming Ina. Siya ang tumatayong haligi at ilaw ng tahanan sa mga panahong iyon.

Nagsimula ang dagok ng aming pamilya sa mga panahong yaon. Masakit isiping nakaratay ang ama mo sa kama at hindi mo maipapadamang mahal mo siya at maswerte ka bilang anak na siya ang iyong ama. hindi ko iyon nasabi sa aking Itay. Pinakamasakit ay noong ginawaran ako ng mga parangal at nagbigay ako ng aking Valedictory Speech sa high school na hindi siya naming kapiling. Mga anim na araw matapos kong diniliver ang speech nay un ay pumanaw si Itay.

Nasa pagdadalamhati apa ang aming pamilya noon nang bigla ay nagulantang kami sa panibagong pagsubok. Namasukan ako bilang working student upang may maipantustos sa aking pag-aaral sa kolehiyo maliban sa scholarship na aking natanggap. Sa kasawiang palad, hindi pa man natapos ang isang buwan mula noong nailibing si Itay ay napag-alama kong may kinakasama nang ibang lalaki si Mama. Gusto kong maiyak sa nangyari. Ramdam ko ang sakit, poot at galit. Naulila kami at napahiya.

Ang masama ay nagtanan sina Mama at napabayaan kaming magkakapatid na hiwa-hiwalay.

Akala naming hindi na kami babalikan pa ng Mama namin. Isang araw, bumalik siyang luhaan sapagkat yung kanyang kinakasama ay may sarili na palang pamilya. Wala siyang ibang choice kundi balikan kami. Tinanggap naman naming siya nang buo dahil anuman ang nangyari, hindi maialis na siya pa rin ang aming Ina. Akala naming nagbago na ang Inay. Hindi pala, nakikipaglambingan na naman siya sa ibang lalaki. Masakit bilang anak na nakikita ang iyong sariling ina na nakikipaghalubilo, naklikipag-inuman sa mga tambay na lalak, gabi-gabi.

Ang masaklap, nagkaroon siya ng karelasyon at nagbunga ang kanilang kamunduhan. Nagkaanak si Mama at isang malusog na batang babae ang naging bago naming kapatid. Noung una ay hindi siya naming natanggap ngunit habang lumilipas ay tinanggap na siya naming nang buo.

Bagamat walang komprontasyong naganap sa pagitan naming mga anak niya at sa kanya bilang aming ina, ipinagdarasal ko na Diyos na ang bahala sa lahat.

Isang araw, isinugod si mama sa ospital sapagkat nanghihina at nahihirapan siyang huminga. Hindi ko alam ang nangyayari ngunit habang isinugod siya sa ospital ay para akong walang pakialam sa paligid, nagmamakaawa upang mabigyang-lunas kaagad ang noon ay nag-aagaw-buhay naming Ina. Sa emergency room, mabilis kong tinawag ang crew na mag-rereceive kay mama sapagkat hindi na ito humihinga.Matagal ding naagapan si Mama at noon ay grabeh ang aming pagdarasal. Pinagalitan ako ng doctor sapagkat malalang-malala nap ala si mama. Ang inisyal na diagnosis ng doctor ay sakit sa puso an komplikado ang sanyang sakit. Ayon sa doctor, kung hindi agad naagapan ay maaring patay na si Mama.

Wala kaming pera sa pagkakataong iyon ngunit buo ang aking tiwala sa Diyos na Siyang tutulong sa amin. Siya naman talaga ang pinaghugutan ko ng lakas simula pa man noon. Umabot din ng halos tatlong lingo kami sa ICU. Wala kaming pera, walang-wala talaga ngunit lahat ng gastos- gamot, medisina at laboratory ay naprovide ng Panginoon. Kung saan-saan ako napunta, ginawa ko lahat ng magagawa ko upang makahanap ng pera. Pinasok ko ang kapitolyo, city hall, at mga kakilala ko sa paaralan at maging ang local na radio ay nakapag-abot ng tulong. marami akong hindi kkilala ngunit napakaganda at napakabuti ng Panginoon sapagkat ginamit niya ang maraming tao bilang instrument upang matulungan kami.

Anuman ang kanyang kasalanan, hindi naming naitakwil ang aming ina. Bagkus, naipadama naming sa kanya ang noon ay gusto naming ipadama kay Itay noong nabubuhay pa ito. Ang ilang araw na pamamalagi naming sa ospital ay parang isang rehabilitasyon upang maayos ang noon ay wasak na pagsasamahan naming mag-anak. Pinatawad naming ang mama at minahal nang buo. Bawat tao ay may panahon upang magbago.

Ngayon, tahimik na ang aming pamumuhay. Nakatapos ako sa pag-aaral ko at nagkaroon ng isang trabaho bago pa man nakagraduate. Mas maganda ang aming pakikitungo sa isa’t isa. Salamat sa Diyos na Siyang nagbigay pag-asa upang arapin ang panibagong buhay. Sila ang nag-abot ng kanilang tulong upang maipadama sa aming magkakapatid na may tunay kaming pamilya. Salamat sa mga taong naging bahagi upang maging matiwasay ang aming buhay.Kung naging mahina kami sa pangungutya ng ibang mga tao laban sa kahihiyan ng aming pamilya, maaring hindi kami ganito katatag ngayon. Nawasak man ang noo’y wagas na pagmamahalan, ngayon ay muling nabuo ang aming pamilya dahil sa matapang na pagsuong sa apoy ng buhay. Muli kaming babangon dala ang pag-asa. 

Entangled

Alone and totally left by myself. Smoke. Drink. Bar. Magpariwara. Name it, and I can really do those things because of how I was and is treated in the family.

But thank goodness I never dared to get trapped and be like what those teens and persons do given the same loose treatment I used to have and am still having. Free as a bird, I could have had explored my youth and get involved in all sorts of worldly pleasures around me.

But I did not grab the opportunity. I did not left myself entangled with those stuff that only satisfy my physical needs and wants. Instead, I tried to resist. And each time I stumbled, I get up.

I admit it, there are a lot of experiences in the past that bother me from moving on. These experiences are my steppingstones in order to get up again. And again- until I will finally win the race.

I am not a perfect man because I still commit mistakes and I had those weird and naughty experiences. Yes,  I do not feel any anxiety or dismay for I know that those experiences, the ones I used to delve with in the past- however bad others may think  about what I was before, are essential for me to grow up and learn the lessons of life that are not available within the theories discussed in the four walls of the classroom.

What's more important, at least in my humble opinion, is that I enjoyed my past-really!, had fully accepted what I experienced before, and above all- I am looking forward for what is in the future.

my gift

My Gift





We have known well each other for so long


And memories are keeping us strong;

Those times we both laugh


Are times that I will never drop.




Since I do not have the material stuff

Let me offer you my warmest heart


So that by then we both will smile

'Cause of the wondrous gifts God gave us awhile.

My Special Birthday

"I do not have any material gift for you but all I can offer is my sincere and warmest greetings!"

          How wonderful! Such is one of the sweetest birthday greetings I hear for my birthday. It feels like I am like floating with the breeze and floating somewhere else. I cannot fathom the intense feeling that I have now. 

          Yes, the feeling that you are being taken care of by your friends-old and new alike, as well as those very important persons whom I was working with before. It's great that I have these people because for once and some other reasons, they were able to be part of my past. Their warm greetings and wishes give an assurance deep within that they love and care for me. Their effort even simple or not has created in me an impression- an impression that will surely last for a lifetime. Such impression is whispering me to realize that if indeed you are being good and honest to yourself and your dealings with others, you will later on reap the what you sow.

          It is with great pride and gratitude that I express my feelings now for their effort- whether simple or not, because such has make me more and more appreciate the goodness of life. I live as a simple man- thriving with love here in this marvelous and amazing world. But simple as I am, I will continue to bring with me the love that I earn from these people. These people have contributed much for the achievements that I garnered- for bringing me where I stand and where I will go.

          "I do not have any material gift for you but all I can offer is my sincere and warmest greetings!"

          These words kept on whispering through my ears. These words are sweet and are truly inspiring. Simple as it may seem to others but the message embedded thereto are going down through my heart. These and other words have meaning to me and will be part of my life already.

          At the end of the day I bow down, worship the Lord for allowing me reach this birthday, my 22nd birthday a truly memorable one.

          Happy Birthday to me!