LOVE, LOVE, LOVE

What is love? Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is blind. Love is like a bubble gum. Love is not rude. Love is stupid. Love is God. Love is a special feeling for someone. I have researched in the internet and it states that, " Love is any of a number of emotions and experiences related to a sense of strong affection or profound oneness. Depending on context, love can have a wide variety of intended meanings. Romantic love is seen as a deep, ineffable feeling of intense and tender attraction shared in passionate or intimate attraction and intimate interpersonal and sexual relationships. Love can also be conceived of as Platonic love, religious love, familial love, and, more casually, great affection for anything considered strongly pleasurable, desirable, or preferred, including activities and foods. This diverse range of meanings in the singular word love is often contrasted with the plurality of Greek words for love, reflecting the concept's depth, versatility, and complexity.
There are hundreds and millions of meanings of love. Each of us have different meanings of love. But, of course, all of us have loved someone and was being loved. According to Sir Elmer, the common reactions of people when they hear the word "love" ,is a boy and a girl attracted to each other. But, love is more than that. It has many meanings and many expressions. When I tell my father that I loved him, it doesn't mean that I am sexually attracted to my father. There are a lot of ways to express our love to someone. But, always remember, that we must not throw our " I LOVE YOU" to someone we don't even know. This phrase meant a lot to people. Some even shed their own tears just to hear these 3-letter-word from someone. A simple " I love You" can touch one's heart. A simple expression of love can soften a very hard heart.
Love is everywhere and it is felt by everybody. Love is also considered as the "greatest force" in the world. And, yes, it's true! Even the strongest person in the world is pulled off by love. When we start to love someone, we do not mind who he or she really is and we accept all the things that are about him or her, may it be good or bad. That is love. Love is something that you give it away. You do not look the outward and inward appearance of a person. You just accept who he or she really is. The Bible does not only tell us that we must love only those who also loved us. Even our own enemy, we must love them. If somebody hates us, in return, we must love them. Do good to others who have not been good to you. Later on, you'll see the result of your goodness and love being shared to someone who doesn't like you. Just keep on sharing loving because in return, you will also be loved.

HAZARD OF "TOO MUCH" FASCINATION

"ADDICT"—that's what I describe myself, Rosa and Jals. Not addict with marijuana or any illegal drugs, but addict with the animè, " The Prince of Tennis". I think that this animè and our "addiction" to it , bind our friendship together. As if, it was the foundation of our friendship.
Last January 26, Friday, all P.E 1 girls have a practical exam in the two types of services in badminton. This also served as our third periodical exam in P.E. The two types of service in badminton are the forehand and the backhand serve. I have a hard time executing the backhand serve. The forehand service was more easier for me to execute than the backhand service. But, when I execute the forehand service, it does not went "inside" the service line. I have also noticed that some of my classmates and schoolmates, are also having a hard time executing either of the forehand and backhand serve or even both.
We were given 8 chances to execute each of the forehand and backhand serve correctly. But only 5 are credited. If you have executed the forehand and backhand serve correctly, within 5 consecutive tries, you don't need to use the remaining 3. You are already perfect in the exam. Each correct execution of the two types of services is worth 4 points. The shuttlecock must be inside the service line or else, no points will be given. So, the perfect score is 20 points for each type of service. I hope, I can get a high score.
Finally, it was my turn. I was very nervous! What if I get zero in this test? What am I going to do? Oh,no! Then, I tried really hard to execute the 2 types of services correctly. Unfortunately, I got only 4 points for the forehand serve and 4 points also for the backhand serve. This means, that I failed my periodical test! Oh, no! I got only 4 points out of 20!
But lucky are we to have a passionate teacher like Ms. Maquilan. She gave another chance to those who got 16 points below. And, it means that, I have another chance! Yes! But, as of now, the number of tries lacking for that person, is the number of tries that will be given to her. I have executed both the forehand and backhand serve correctly only once, so I will be given 4 more tries to pass and possibly get perfect in the exam. I successfully, executed the forehand serve 4 times and the backhand serve thrice. This means, that I got 16 out of 20 points in the forehand serve and 12 points in the backhand serve.
I have noticed Jals to be very lonely. I sat with her and asked her what's her problem. She told me that she was jealous with Rosa because she serves in badminton the way the service in tennis was done. Then, I began to ask her about her score in our practical exam. She told me that she failed the exam. "You're just kidding. Seriously, what is your score?", I asked her. Then she told me that she really got a low score. She began to blame her fascination to the animè, "The Prince of Tennis". "You, should not blame the animè", I told her. She began to cry. "If I was not too much obssesed and fascinated with that animè, this thing will probably not happen", she said to me crying. Then she began to tell me that from that day on, she will not talk about the animè anymore. I hope that she was just kidding. Hence, I have also learned something from Jals' experience. Don't be fascinated nor obssesed to something very muchh, IT MAY LEAD YOU TO DANGER!

BEING AN HONOR ROLL IN UP

We were created by God in His own image. And being in His own image, we were also endowed with wisdom. But it is for us to use or abuse the wisdom God has given to us.

Since my pre-school days, God has been good to me. I had been awarded the most outstanding award and when I came to my elementary years, He still kept on blessing me. I graduated a valedictorian. I was very happy because I know I made my parents happy too.

I was trained and encouraged by my parents to spend time studying my lessons . During school days at home, I and my brother and sister are not allowed to watch television shows. I have to study and have to sleep early. This has been my training which became a habit to me. And this habit helped me a lot in my stay here in UP.

When I passed the UP high school admission test, I got nervous. I know I ill be going to UP , a school known for its brilliant teachers and students. And, oh my, I will be with the best among the best!
My parents then told me that they will not expect me to excell in UP knowing that there are more brilliant students than I am. They just xpect me to pass and request me not to have a grade of lower than 80. Well, I am glad about the arrangement.

With this in mind, I felt fine.School in UP is very different frm what I had been used to.And it is really true. I have so many bright and brilliant classmates.

During my first week in school, I found out that my Math subject is the hardest. Though I exerted all my efforts in studying this subject, yet I felt that I will fail. And, oh, I cannot even make a grade of 80. But still I keep on doing what I used to do. I participated in all the classroom acctivites and did my studies every night.I spent so much time on my Math subject. I really cried a lot during those weeks. I slept late at night then I woke up as early as 4am to study.

Then First Periodical Exams came. I was glad I got good grades from all my subjects. Then it was card-giving day and I was elated. I ranked second in our section. I almost flew when I saw my Mom telling her of the good news. I know she will be happy. Praise God!Being second in the class and ranking third in the whole level is fine with me.

I still kept on doing my studies until the next grading period came. I also prayed a lot. I know that all my subjects are hard but if I will take time listening to my tachers, following their instructions and studying a lot,I can still make it on top.

My happiest moment was the Third Grading Period when I ranked first in class and first also in the whole first year level. Praise God!

I am not different from all my classmates.I know that they are all bright and brilliant students and they also have an aim to make it on top. But being on top of the class takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice.

FINDING A FRIEND IN U.P.

"A friend loveth at all times..."--that's a proverb from the Bible. All of us wanted to have a friend. We wanted to have someone whom we can rely on and to be with everytime we feel blue, aside from our own family. We can always have a friend but to find a "true friend" is a difficult one. A true friend is someone who is always there for you, through tears and joy, through ups and downs.

I considered a person as my "friend", if he or she has earned my full trust. Like other people, I wanted my friend to be someone who is almost like me. We have the same likes, dislikes, favorites and others. As much as possible, we have the same religion so that we can readily understand each other. I dont want to experience again one of the worst things that happened in my life.

I used to have a friend and a classmate when I was still in grade six. I really considered her as my friend, even though she has used to say "bad words" and she has cursed me once. She makes me laugh and I was touched with her letters. I never expected her to backbite me. I trusted her so much. She has been a good friend "in front" of me. I was disappointed and at the same time, angry with her when I have known that she backbited me to my classmates. I never, ever expected her to do that to me. As if, the whole world has turned back on me! I don't know what to do with it! Then, I realized that the religion also matters. If you don't have the same religion, there's a tendency that you can't understand each other.

I become a very quiet person in UP at first. I feel lonely all the time because I don't have anyone to talk to and to share my feelings with. It was really hard for me to have no one to consider as a "friend". I wanted to talk and talk . But how can I talk if nobody is there to listen to me?

Honestly, I envy some of my classmates at first, who have their own "circle of friends" like Daisy and Jals, Isabel, Grace, and Eiza and the VIPs(John Rhey, Jurrine, Janelle, Jeny-vi and Irene).

But as of now, I have my new and own pal. Even if we sometimes argue, I love being with her. And her name is Rosa, our mathematician. Rosa and I always quarrel and argue about Tezuka Kunimitsu. I always tease her that Tezuka likes me and not her. We will be married soon and many other things. When she hears me anything about Tezuka, she became active. As if, it was her stimulant. Actually, Tezuka Kunimitsa was only an animè character.

Since we have been arguing each other for that animè character, we became close friends. It served as a bridge for two different people to be close with each other.

Honestly, I never expected Rosa to be my closest friend in U.P. My first impression when I first saw her, was that she is a very noisy person. Her noise irritates my ear. But, as of now, I was already used to it! Our friendship has been a very BIG SURPRISE to me!

FAMILY DAY 2007

A family is the basic unit of a society. It is where a person takes comfort and shelter through all lifes' storms.
It is the family who also shares all the happiness and sorrows that one bears. And a family is of great importance here in UP hence, a family day is made. It will be a time for knowing each other's family.

February 25 is the scheduled Family Day. Two weeks before the said date, a PTA meeting was held. Our parents were made to decide how much will be the contributon. The amount will be paid for the rental of the tent, chairs and tables. They have agreed that a minimal amount of P300 ill be contributed. It will be a BYOP(bring your own provision ) affair. The food that will be brought will be gathered together and it will be placed at the tables. There will be sharing of foods. The amount contributed will also include two pieces of lechon.Wow, what a grand celebration!

It was also discussed and agreed that each parent are required to sell three raffle ticket stubs. Each stub costs P50 only. The proceeds of the tickets will be used for the improvement of the comfort rooms and others. But if the parent can afford to sell more than three stubs,then were encouraged to do so. And sell as many tickets as they want. My parents took 8 stubs only.

Wow! A family day! It will be another first experience for me!We don't have such an affair while I was in my elementary years. We had outings like the field trip but not a family day. I am very excited!

On February24, we were in school for the practice of our dramafest.My Mom volunteered to help in the preparation and decoration of our tent. We met in school at 2pm. There were also parents who came and helped. They also took time talking and knowing eacch other. I had observed that the parents were of the same mind in their decoration. They easily agreed on certain tasks and I am glad about it. We were treated by Madam Gallo to a snacks and it was fun! We finished our decoration by the late afternoon.

Every Sunday, our whole family attends church, a born-again Christian church.But on that day, we excused from our church and attended the family day.

When we arrived at the UP ground, the mass was ongoing. I can see the happy faces of parents. I know, like my parents, they were also looking forward on this memorable day.
We, the students, will be having our field demonsatration. Again! This will be my first time, to dance! A week before, we had a hard time doing our practices. I find thedance excciting but I have 2 left feet. I do not know how to dance. Oh,no!I have to dance and it will be with my family watching. I have "butterflies" in my stomach, but I have to do this!

I did the dance with all the grace I could muster. I breathed a sigh of relief when our number ended. At last, it's finished!My Mom and my sister kept kidding me about my dancing but I know they were also excited to see me dance my "first dance".

I shed tears when Madam Gallo was given a certificate of appreciation by the PTA. I am sad to know taht she will be leaving UP after so many years of service. I have learned a lot from her being my adviser and at the same time my Science teacher.

Lunch time for our section was a feast. We had a great time choosing the food we want. Wow, the lechon tasted good!Everybody enjoyed the meal.

The parlor games was also fun. But our parents were not in the mood of joining. Maybe they were still full after a hearty meal. It was really a great celebration and I am again looking forward to the next year Family Day!

CHANGING OF EMOTIONS

Jals have pomised me last January 23, Friday, that she will never talk about the animè, "The Prince of Tennis" anymore. I hope that she was just kidding but, unfortunately, she was not. I believe that she will not forget the animè easily since we have kept on talking about it for weeks. But I was wrong. Everytime, I talked to her about the animè she reacted nothing. As if she did not hear anything. Then she'll tell me " Joni, kindly stop talking to me about that animè. I don't have time for that anymore." I understood her. She had been a victim of fascination. She got low scores during our Third periodical exam in P.E because of that animè.

Even if Jals was not fascinated with the animè, The Prince of Tennis anymore, Rosa and I were still very obssesed with the animè especially with Tezuka Kunimitsu, the handsome captain of the Seigaku Tennis Club. We still quarrel because of him. One day, Rosa urged me to go with her to an internet cafè to watch some videos about "the Prince of Tennis". Well, fascinated very much with the animè, I went with Rosa without doubts in my mind.

Unexpected, Jals went with us. I was shocked—really shocked! She told me a while ago that she doesn't want to talk about the animè anymore but right now, she wanted to go with me and Rosa. What a SURPRISE! I was really shocked with Jals' reaction but at the same time, I was also happy. "Welcome back, Jals", I told her.

We were all laughing at the internet cafè.Jals teased me and Rosa that Tezuka was a "loser". Rosa and I argued her—just childish arguments. After 15 minutes of staying at the internet cafè, Jals went back to the campus. Rosa and I remained at the internet cafè. After a short while, we went back to the campus. Both of us were still laughing and talking on the way to the campus.

When we arrived at the campus, we saw Jals. Rosa and I began to talk to her everything we saw at the internet cafè after she went back to the campus.We narrated to her everything we saw enthusiastically. I was shocked when she just turned her back on us. I don't understand her at all! She was on a very good mood when she went with us to the internet cafè. But when she went back to the campus, she was not in a good mood already. As if, she was very angry, irritated, and etc., Then, she will laugh to my other classmates. What have we done to her? Did we say something that made her angry or insulted? What did we do? I can't answer all of these questions! If she won't mind talking to us, FINE! I won't spend my time talking to people who doesn't want to talk to me!But I just want to know the real reason. I hope that she'll talk to us later on.

MY FIRST JOB INTERVIEW

Know Your School Day is fast approaching. During those days, the students become the teachers. The principal, secretary and guidance councilor will also be the students. "This is very exciting. I can't wait!",I told myself.

Actually, this is the very first time in my life wherein I will be given an opportunity to become a teacher. I really like to experience the feeling of being a teacher. Maybe, it's nice but a bit exhausting. You must prepare your lessons every now and then. You must have stacked knowledge about the subject matter so that when you will be asked by your students, you can answer them.

Madam Gallo told us that an interview must be conducted first for every applicant. What? An interview?! Oh,no! I thought that we can be teachers immediately without any interview to worry. But that's impossible! When you apply for a certain job, you nust be interviewed first.

What am I going to do? I hate interviews. I easily become nervous. I hate answering questions orally and answering them to the person in front of you."What if I don't have an answer? What will I do? I don't know! Lord, please help me".

Each student is required to apply for a maximum of two subjects. I applied as a Social Science and Science I-A teacher. I first approacched Madam Logarta, our enthusiastic and cunique Social Science teacher. "Calm down. You can do this. This is just an interview. You can do it!Go Joni Joy!", I said trying to calm myself.

I was shocked when Madam Logarta immediately get my application form and handed me the lesson plans. "How lucky am I? Thank You, Lord", I told myself partially smiling. Four of us were accepted as Social Science teachers. Actually, majority of my classmates were afraid to apply as a Soccial Science teacher. Some were afraid with Madam Logarta.

And now, my only problem is my interview with Madam Gallo. Madam told us some questions that would possibly be asked during the interview. I felt nervous again! Oh, no!

Ever since I was achild, I really hate interviews. I hate answering questions orally. I easily get nervous. Nervous, because you are going to answer the questions to the person in front of you. Another thing that I don't like during an interview, is answering the questions in English. Of course, I understand English. But I can't speak English fluently. I easily lack words to say and most of all, I can't avoid myself from using "filler words".

while waiting for my turn, I started to think and ponder. My conscience was bothering me again. I don't know what to do!I wanted to be a Science teacher but I'm afraid to be interviewed. I am afraid to be interviewed by Madam Gallo. Many of my classmates applied as Science A and Science C teachers. But, only 6 teachers must be accepted-- four in Science A and two in ScienceC. I really hoped to be accepted as a Science A teacher. I don't want to fail.

And now, it's my turn. The butterflies in my stomach are awake again. I am nervous again. "Calm down. Just answer the questions well. Smile and be confident", I told myself.

Madam smiled and asked me a few but tricky questions.I answered those questions well. I hoped that Madam Gallo was impressed.

The next day, the result of the interview was given. The Science C teachers were Jals and Patrice and the Science A teachers were Kevin,Grace, Isabel and "ME". Yes! I did it! Iwas very happy. "Thank you, Lord for helping me".

REFLECTIONS ON BEING A TEACHER

Last January 25 and 26, we celebrated UP's "Know Your School Day". I had been a teacher of two subjects, Social Science and Science I-A.

Before, I really wanted to be a teacher, I thought that being a teacher is a very good thing! You don't have to take your time answering those long and headaching assignments. You don't have to sleep late at night studying your lessons and preparing for those tiresome tests. Then, wake up early in the morning just to avoid being late. You also don't have to listen to those dozey and boring lessons. All you have to do is to check your students' works and compute their grades.

But I was wrong- very, very wrong. Teachers have the same routine as what the students have. They also sleep late at night studying their lessons. They even wake up early so that they will not be late in class. If we students, experienced hardships and headaches in studying our lessons and making our assignments, teachers too, experienced the same thing and it is doubled.

We, students, thought that teachers are very lucky. Lucky, because they don't have to worry about assignments and projects which are to be passed on time. They don't have to study very hard and sleep late at night just to get high scores during exams. They don't have to worry about getting low scores and failing the exams.

But we are wrong! Teachers too, study and sleep late at night just to prepare their lessons. They wanted their students to understand their subject matter well. They don't want us to fail the exams. "No teacher wants his/her students to have failing grades".

We must not think that teachers give tests and exams just to make our scores low and give us burden. They give us tests because they wanted to know if the students really understood the lesson well. We may not know, but they feel very sad everytime their students get low scores. On the other hand, their hearts leap for joy everytime their students get good grades. Why? Because it means that their students really understood the lesson.

The student's grade reflects to the teacher. If the whole class gets low scores or failing scores, you may conclude that the problem is with the teacher. But when you see a class wherein only few get low scores, you may say that the problem is with the students and not with the teacher.

We, students, must not belittle our own teachers for they have experienced a lot of hardships just for us to learn. We must always remember all the sacrifices that they have made just for us. They have sacrificed their "TIME" for their loved ones just to teach us. They wanted us to learn because they wanted to fulfill and do their duties and responsibilities as our "second mothers and fathers". We must always keep in our minds and in our hearts, all their teachings because even for a short span of time, they have been a part of our complicated kives. We must respect them!

I may have not have experienced all of the teacher's hardships in teaching but for two days, I have learned something about being a teacher. It's not easy. But if you are determined, nothing is impossible - no matter how many obstacles are waiting for you and how many sacrifices you must make. You can do it! Aja! These are my reflections on being a Teacher.

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH MV DOULOS and BOOKS

Maybe because, I grew up with not too much exposure to ships, I do not know what is MV Doulos. I asked someone about it and she told me that it was a “floating library”. What? A floating library? Impossible! Actually, it was a ship full of books- like a library.

Madam Gallo told us, that all first year and second year students will be going to MV Doulos on February 13. Wow! Exciting! I wonder how a ship full of books looks like.

Fliers about MV Doulos were given. Written on it were some facts about the ship. It was built in 1914, and, wow, it is only two years younger than the Titanic. Awesome!

According to the flier, 350 volunteers from fifty countries including the Philippines, worked together on board. Amazing! I want to see some other foreigners aside from the Koreans and Americans that I usually see around the city.

Madam Gallo told us to have a buddy. Of course, my buddy was Rosa. We planned to ride on a Kaohshiung bus going to Pier 1, where the ship was docked. Unfortunately, we were not able to get a Kaohshiung bus. So, we just took the Lahug jeepneys as our means of transportation. Two jeepneys were needed for each section.

We left the campus at 12:30pm. I was very excited, really excited! I want to see the well known ship and its international crew.

All of us were very noisy inside the jeepney. Some were talking and some were joking around. I enjoyed listening to them.

We arrived at Pier 1 at around 1 pm. I finally saw the big MV Doulos ship! It was really huge! We were asked to line up before boarding the ship.

We went to the library first. There were many books. Some were fairy tale books and others were educational books. The price of the books and other items like CDs and cassette tapes, were per unit. For example, 100 units is equivalent to 100 pesos.

I have heard rumors that the owner of the MV Doulos ship is a Christian. He made it his ministry to go around to different countries bringing with them the news of Jesus Christ through selling Christian books especially the Bible.

I went to the comfort room of the ship to have my personal thing. When I went inside, the room was very warm because it has no window and no ventilation. I did urinate, at the same time I was sweating.

After a few hours roaming around the library, we were asked to line up again. Line up again? For what? “ I wanted to go home now!”, I murmured.

I thought that we will be going again to the library. But I was wrong. Instead, we went to their mini auditorium. We were entertained there. Videos were played. A few games were conducted. We were also made to guess the country represented by five crew members.

A few hours inside the auditorium, we went to the library again. Again, I read some books. After a short while, I have noticed that only me and my buddy, Rosa were UPians left there. I was scared and upset. What if they have left? What are we going to do? Fortunately we saw our colleagues down there waiting for the jeepneys. I find my trip to MV Doulos fun yet tiresome one.

BEING A UPIAN

I love June! Though summer has ended,there's something to be excited about school's starting! And,wow, I'll be at the University of the Philippines or U.P., a school well known for its innovative strategies designed to better equip us, students, to tertiary level. A school also known for bright and intelligent students and teachers!

I am very excited to meet my new teachers and new classmates. I had been saddened to leave my old classmates of my elementary days but I prepared myself for this new environment.

All seemed new to me—new school, new teachers, new schoolmates, new classmates, new classroom and new environment. Where will be my classroom? Who will be my seat mate and friends?How about my teachers? Are they strict? So many questions came to my mind with the coming of the first day of class.

Then classes came. I woke up as early as 4:30 am on my first day. My parents fixed everything I need, my baon and breakfast,and I prepared myself for school. Wow! As I came near the school, my excitement rose up as well as my fear. I am afraid of so many things. I don't know why. I just feel uncomfortable. Then its classes time. I met new classmates and got friendly with some of them. My teachers are the best of a kind. They have different personalities and different style of teachings. We have a breed of the old and new generation with lots of brains and experiences to share to us, their students.

Ma'am Rabago was the first teacher that I met. She told us a few things about U.P. She also told us the reason why U.P teachers are not wearing uniforms. “We can express ourselves through the kind of dress we wear”, she said. And it was really true, because as the days went on, she dress herself on that belief. She always wear ethnic dresses with ethnic accessories. Honestly, I find her so nationalistic.

Life in UP is both fun and hard work. School days are full and there are also days that are easy. I came to experience here that everybody are required to clean the room and its surroundings. Homeroom officers function as officers. Everybody has his own share of work to do. And it's Fun! And we have the best adviser in the person of Madam Gallo. She taught us a lot of things especially, on good manners, relationships and behavior. She's like a mother to her 35 children. And here in UP, I learned to love my class in Science where before I hate it. Oh, everything in UP is so new to me!

The happiest moment that we had was winning our homeroom cleaning contest where we were treated by Madam Gallo on an ice cream spree. We “sweat” ourselves in cleaning every nook and corner of our room and winning the contest was also “sweet”!Wow, it's fun!

At home, I spent hours in my studies. I learned from our orientation on the first week of our classes that we should spend two or more hours doing our studies. And, yes, it paid off. We will not be prepared by the next day in class if we will not find time studying at home.

I have learned so many things on my first year of being in UP, and I know there are more to come. These are my first lessons and these are different from my previous school, the Mabolo Christian Academy. It's great to be a UPian and to belong in this school. I am very happy I am here and I am proud I am a Upian!

WHAT DO STARS TELL ME ABOUT LIFE?

The UP Stargazers Society planned to have an overnight at the campus on February 3. Almost all of my classmates were member of the club but unfortunately, I was not one of those. My parents were both afraid that something will happen to me. That's why I was not able to join the club. Actually, I wanted to experience an overnight stay in the campus. I wonder how it is like sleeping in your own school. Maybe, it's fun and enjoyable! Oh, how I wish I could have an overnight at the campus, even for once.

While we were having our classes, Ate Theresa Yee, a fourth year student and the president of the Stargazers Society, informed us that the club will be having an overnight on Friday, February 3. She added that all the first year students are urged to join the overnight experience—even those who are not members of the club could join. This is because of our Sci. C subject which is all about Astronomy, Oceanography and Meteorology.

Wow! I can also have an opportunity to experience an overnight, which is the first time for me to be out of our home. But, will my parents allow me? Both of them are very concerned of my security. And I think that we will be very tired the next day. We are scheduled to have a make up class on our Computer class the next day, Saturday.

I have a hard time convincing my parents, especially my Dad, to allow me to join the overnight. My Dad kept on asking me the reason why I should join. I can't blame him for that. I know he was after my own security and safety and it will be the first time that I'll be staying out of the house and at night time. Whose parents would want their own children to be in danger? Of course, none.

I really long to hear my parents say yes. At last, they allowed me to go there. But my Mom has to stay with me at the campus till morning. Oh, I was not so happy with the decision but at least, they permitted me to go. I was very excited!

When I arrived at the campus, I saw almost all my classmates. They were all busy talking and having fun with their friends and classmates. Some slept like Rosa. It was really true that she is a heavy sleeper.

When I was about to sleep, I noticed the stars(even if there were only two visible stars). I tried to compare them to my life.

Stars undergo many changes and have different phases. They don't remain as stars. Some became black dwarfs, supernovas or even black holes. Likewise, life undergoes so many changes. We don't remain as cute, little babies with no worries in life. We became teenagers then become adult ready to be parents and grandparents. Later on, life ceases for us and we die and faces our Creator. It may be very painful for us to face death, but it is the truth. From dust we were created and to dust we shall return.

We must also be like stars which keep on shining bright even in darkness. Stars may not be visible at daytime but they are still there waiting for the night, a time for them to shine.

We must not only shine bright during the happy moments in our lives. Darkness will always come. When that time comes, we must keep on shining because later on, we'll face the day.

LISTEN TO AN INSTRUCTION

Last December 12, 2006, my classmates and I went to the Department of Agriculture or DA to do some research regarding our Social Science project. We are seven in the group but only five of us were able to go there.

Before we went there, my father already told me that we must have a letter or note from our teacher since it is a government office. Obviously, the letter should have the teacher’s signature. This is to make sure that we are permitted by our teacher to go there.

I didn’t mind about what my father had said since some of my classmates have been to a government office and they were not even asked for any permit from their teacher. They were accompanied only by an adult. They were immediately entertained by the employees there.

For this reason, we went to the Department of Agriculture at M. Velez Street without any permit from our teacher. When we arrived there, two friendly guards gave us Visitor ID’s. All of us were very excited. I can feel it! We planned to take pictures there so we asked permission from some of the employees. They told us to go to the secretary of the director. We went to the secretary. And lo, she asked us for a permit. Oh no! What am I going to do? The secretary gave us a one-fourth piece of paper. On it was written the name of the director and the address of the DA.

We started writing a letter to the director but we have a problem. The letter must be noted and signed by our teacher! So, someone from our group must go back to UPHS Campus and ask a teacher to sign it. I was very worried since the Department of Agriculture is a bit far from UPHS Campus. But for our project’s sake, Mark, one of my group mates went back to UPHS Campus.

Fortunately, Mark came back to DA with the signature of Madame Baltazar on the one-fourth sheet of paper that was given to us a while ago. We submitted the paper to the secretary but she told us that the paper is only a scratch. We must write the letter on a bond paper. It must be “formal” because the director will get angry if the letter submitted to him is not FORMAL. We were very astonished and at the same time worried. Why didn’t I use my head! I’m a very dull person! We are going to write a letter to a director of a government office and we’ll just give him a one-fourth sheet of paper!

After a short while, the secretary went out from her room and saw us. She told us that the teacher who signed the paper is a dull one. According to her, that teacher who signed the paper does not deserve to be a teacher especially at the secondary level. The secretary doesn’t know the person she is referring to. She didn’t know that the teacher who signed the paper is Professor Purita Baltazar, the PRINCIPAL of the UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES HIGH SCHOOL. She asked us the name of the school we came from. We answered her that we are students from UP. She was amazed. She told us that she felt very pity on us. We are UPians and we are not even using our heads! What an INSULT! This was the very first time that I felt humiliated! I really want to talk back to her but I controlled my temper. I blamed myself about what had happened. IF I ONLY LISTENED TO MY FATHER, THIS WILL NOT HAPPEN TO US!

MY FAMILY

My family is a cross bred of two different people raised in two different environments. My mother is an Ilongga who grew up in Alicante, Negros Occidental. My grandmother is a grade school teacher while my grandfather is a Civil Engineer by profession. They were raised in a barrio where my grandmother teaches. My mom is the third in a brood of seven, three boys and four girls. One of my aunts died of a coronary disease when I was two years old yet. My two aunties are nurses, one of my uncles is a pastor and the other one is a Civil Engineer. They are in Negros Occidental and I can have a chance to visit them during vacation days. They’re all married with children of my age.

My father is from the southern part of Cebu, Alegria. He came from a big family of thirteen children, three boys and ten girls. I have not seen my grandfather on my father’s side but I have the chance of living with my grandmother. I was in my third grade when my grandma died. I cried a lot that time because she was a very good and great grandmother to us. She has a sari-sari store and oftentimes, she gave me something to eat. I also miss her at times.

Both of my parents are commerce graduates majoring in Accounting. They were worked in LBC, fell in love and got married. My mother resigned from her job when we were small so she can take care of us. My dad was left in LBC where until now he still works. He is the team leader of LBC Sto. Niño Team. He is in charge of the whole branch.

We are born-again Christians. Our family attends church, God’s Heritage Fellowship, at the second floor of the N & N Bookstore in Ranudo, Cebu City. We have a Sunday School and worship services. My dad is in charge of the music department where I am also a member. I sometimes lead in songs just like my dad. My mom is a Sunday School teacher. We have also our Youth Department and we usually meet every Sunday afternoon. Our pastor’s wife is in charge of the youth.

I am the eldest in a brood of three. My younger sister is in Grade Six as well as our youngest, a boy who is in Grade Five at the Mabolo Christian Academy.

We live in Tisa, Cebu City. It is located in the upper portion of the city. Our place is hilly, overlooking the big buildings of the city. It is like living in the province because the place is not crowded. Our neighbors have cows, goats and chickens. My aunts, uncles and cousins are our immediate neighbors. We are a big family in our place. During birthdays, we gather together and celebrate. Birthdays starts during the month of March until December. We have been together during those days. Birthday starts with morning singing, the typical “painit” after singing and by evening is the celebration with dinner together. By December, we have our family reunion. We spend time exchanging gifts, gift giving by our aunties and then eating together. I enjoy having my relatives around us.

At home, my father is the disciplinarian but he does it with love. He makes sure that rules set are followed. He believes the Bible and he teaches it to us. If we commit mistakes, we will talk and if an action is needed, he imposes it. If there are problems, daddy asks for our opinions. He also respects our decisions as long as it does go against our basis, the Bible.

My mom is the homemaker. She does the household chores, cleaning, cooking and washing for us. She also assists us in our studies and school activities. My parents are both supportive of us, especially now that I am in UP. They make sure that one of them is around if ever their presence is needed. I love my family very much and I praised God for giving me a loving family.

THE PERSON BEHIND THE MASK

Hi! I’m Joni Joy Dumasig, 13 years old and a first year high school student at The University of the Philippines. I’m the eldest in the brood of three. I’m a quiet person AT SCHOOL, but one of the NOISIEST PERSON at home. I can’t stop myself from talking. People may say that I’m a dishonest person in terms of showing my real personality. I admit that I don’t show to other people the real ME but I just want to say, that I’m not a SHOWY PERSON who shows what he or she really is. I’m very much concerned of the reactions of people around me especially those who thinks that I’m a very good person. No one is perfect --- NO ONE except God!

At home, I’m a very talkative person. I keep on talking to my cousins and other relatives the latest happenings at school. I’m glad that their ears are always ready to listen to my stories. I am not only a talkative person, I’m also a sleep-lover and most of all I love to watch television every now and then. I am also a strict sister to my two younger siblings especially to my younger brother. Honestly, I already broke a “hanger for our clothes” just because I hit him. I am also a hot- tempered person. I get angry easily when someone makes noise while I’m sleeping. Honestly, I got this attitude from my father. I also feel very irritated every time someone asks or disturbs me while I’m doing something very important! Have you ever felt that? It is very irritating, isn’t it? I really want to shout at that person but I just control my temper.

You may wonder why I have been a quiet person at school. It’s because I made a promise to myself and to God, when I was still in Grade Six, that when I become a high school student, I will change all those negative attitudes that I once possessed. I know that it is hard to change the way you used to be. But I believe that this is a right decision. I know that I can do this with God on my side. I know that He is always there to help me.

That’s why I turned to be a quiet person at school. I tried very hard to become a good person to everybody. But this doesn’t mean that I want to be a perfect person. All I want is to please God and to show to people God’s love by treating them nice.

But I can’t avoid myself from getting angry with other people or getting irritated with them. I once got irritated with one of my classmates. Actually, she is very naughty and she keeps on asking me about this and that. Because I felt very irritated, I shouted at her and told her that she is already making me sick! I know. I can feel it. She was hurt. I don’t mean to do it. I tried myself not to get irritated with her but I can’t help it. She has been a good classmate to me, but what did I do in return? Shout at her just because she asked me of something! It’s not fair! I was very much affected with what happened that day and I’m pretty sure that my classmate with whom I have a little misunderstanding was affected also.

So I promised to myself not to feel irritated easily again. CONTROL YOUR TEMPER! I hope that this will not happen again.