In a perfect world, there would be no hurt; there would be no turmoil, no prejudiced eyes, no oppressed hearts. In a perfect world, there would be peace and an abundance of love. We, however, are living in an imperfect world of discrepancies. We live in an era of confusion with a burning necessity for change—a desire that resides in my heart as well. Though it may seem overwhelmingly ambitious, it takes just the action and resilience of one person to create a snowball effect of great change—I plan to be that person.
Being raised in a Christian, Filipino household has taught me three things: always finish the food on your plate, act with gratitude and respect, and pray in times of doubt as well as in times of victory. I have been brought up to never let the good things go to waste, because the best things never come easy. From that, I have developed a keen work ethic that pushes me to achieve and execute tasks to the best of my ability. I am a firm believer that one’s work is an accurate representation of character; that is why when I sign my name onto a project, I aim to make it my own and make it my best.
My faith has also played a colossal role in encouraging me to differentiate myself, to abstain from being sidetracked by earthly trials, and to be a fisher of men… or in more secular words, to stand apart as a distinguished individual, to abstain from obscurities that have leaked into mainstream society, and to reach out to those that need a revival of hope. As I’ve grown older, I’ve witnessed the gradual disappearance in the “can do” attitude among my peers. This generation’s drive to shoot for greatness has been dampered into a stagnant surrender. That is why I do things like teach Sunday School. I genuinely believe that there is potential beneath the layer of oppression. In the words of civil rights activist John E. Lewis, “If not us, then who? If not now, then when?” I want to be responsible for the change that inspires our youth to do more and live up to their full potential. I want to lift the barrier that keeps people from reaching their full potential.