Time to say “Goodbye”?

 It seems sense to pause and consider the journey as the last quarter of my Grade 10 year draws to an end. This time has been full of difficulties and learning, which has forced me to grow in ways I never would have imagined.

This quarter has given me a better awareness of my advantages and disadvantages. I've improved my time management abilities, picked up new hobbies, and sharpened my knowledge in a variety of disciplines. Every experience I've had, be it doing intricate math problems, reading literature analysis, or doing science lab experiments, has helped me improve both academically and personally.

It has not, however, been without difficulties. There have always been difficulties, from managing the difficulties of group tasks to the stress of approaching tests. At times, juggling my scholastic obligations, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments has left me feeling overburdened and overextended.

Through overcoming these obstacles, I've come to understand the value of adaptation and resilience. I asked instructors and classmates for advice while I was having academic difficulties, and I used their encouragement to get past hurdles. I made an organized study calendar and ranked everything according to significance and urgency in order to better manage my time. In addition, I adopted a growth mentality, seeing obstacles as chances for improvement and learning rather than as barriers to achievement.

I am armed with important knowledge and experiences from this last quarter as I move into the next stage of my academic career. I'll carry forward the things I've learned, aiming for greatness and striking a healthy balance between my academic goals and my personal needs. I'll tackle obstacles with a positive outlook, confident that I can conquer whatever hurdle I face with tenacity and resolve. I'm ready to take on whatever the future brings with a fresh feeling of purpose and passion, knowing that I can succeed.

References: www.blogger.com

A Grade 10 Student’s Vision for Success

 The pressure to do well could be too much to handle at times for a student in Grade 10. Every moment appears like a stepping stone towards an exciting but uncertain future, from exams to extracurricular activities. Amidst all of this, I frequently find myself wondering, "How do I see myself in ten years?"

I believe that a blend of purpose, passion, and persistence holds the key to success. Making a significant difference in the world is more important to me than simply becoming successful in the traditional sense. Whether it's via my work, my relationships, or my community, I want to make a lasting impression that encourages people to aim high and dream big.

In ten years, I see myself as a self-assured, accomplished person who has achieved success in both her personal and professional pursuits. Maybe I'll be going back to school to pursue my studies in a subject I genuinely love, or maybe I'll have started a career that enables me to make the most of my abilities and skills.

However, success is, in my opinion, more about the trip than it is about arriving at a particular point. It's about taking on new challenges, growing from setbacks, and never losing sight of the principles that keep me going. Whether I encounter obstacles or success, I'll keep pushing myself to develop because I believe that every event molds me into the person I'm supposed to be.

When I reflect on this moment ten years from now, I want to do so with pride and thankfulness, knowing that the dreams I had when I was a Grade 10 student were a guide for the amazing adventure that lied ahead. And even if the road ahead may not always be obvious, I have faith in my skills and goals to guide me toward a world of limitless opportunities.

So let me dream big, put in a lot of effort, and have faith in my own abilities. Because my potential is endless when my dedication and desire come together. And in ten years, I'll be a living example of how everything is achievable with hard work and perseverance.

Reference: www.blogger.com

Rappler. (2024). UP Mindanao bares medicine, other new programs in Davao by 2025. https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/up-mindanao-bares-medicine-other-programs-davao-2025/

Rappler. (2023). First time’s a charm: Stories of Bar takers who passed on first try. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/stories-bar-takers-passed-first-try/

Rappler. (2020). Get inspired: Newly Physicians recount bittersweet stories of success. https://www.rappler.com/moveph/newly-licensed-physicians-recount-bittersweet-stories-success-november-2020/

Mother’s Day: Traditional way of Celebrating it in the Philippines

 Mother's Day is a unique celebration observed globally to pay tribute to and show gratitude to the amazing mothers who have raised us through their love and sacrifices. This day is extremely important in the Philippines, where it is observed with a special fusion of warmth, love, and tradition.

The act of "mano po," in which youngsters or younger family members take their elders' hands and gently press them to their foreheads as a sign of respect and devotion, is one of the most beloved customs in Filipino culture. This gesture becomes much more meaningful on Mother's Day, when kids show their appreciation and respect for their moms and grandmothers.

Given the close-knit nature of Filipino families, Mother's Day serves as a chance for families to unite and honor the mothers in their homes. To commemorate moms and make enduring memories, families frequently plan unique get-togethers or reunions, either at home or in dining establishments.

Mothers are frequently honored with passionate tributes in the form of handwritten notes, poetry, or music. In addition, a lot of Filipinos use social media to openly show their moms how much they are loved and appreciated by posting sentimental words and old images for everyone to see.

Another essential component of Mother's Day festivities in the Philippines is the exchange of gifts. Gifts don't have to be complicated marks of appreciation or personalized goods; what counts most is the care and effort that went into selecting them. Popular gift options include chocolates, flowers, spa certificates, and even lovingly baked goodies.

Filipino culture places a high value on religious observances, and Mother's Day is no exception. Special church services are held to honor moms. Families get together to pray and give thanks for the mothers in their life during this time of reflection and thankfulness.

Without a question, food plays a unique role in Filipino festivities, and Mother's Day is no exception. In order to celebrate and pamper mothers on their special day, families frequently plan lavish feasts that include traditional Filipino cuisine that are carefully cooked by family members.

Ultimately, the sincere expressions of love, thanks, and admiration for the remarkable women who have shaped our lives are what really make Mother's Day in the Philippines unique. It's a day to honor the altruistic gifts, steadfast assistance, and limitless love that moms provide on a daily basis. Mother's Day in the Philippines is thus a lovely homage to the amazing moms who deserve all the love and appreciation in the world, whether it be through emotional gestures, thoughtful presents, or precious time spent together.

 

References: 

Adizon, L. (2021). My mama, the educator. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/voices/imho/opinion-my-mama-the-educator/

Rappler. (2024) Bonding with Mom! https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/relationships/mothers-day-2024-date-ideas-metro-manila/

Arnaldo, S. (2024). From food to beauty, here are gifts to make Mom happy with on Mother’s Day. https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/food-drinks/mothers-day-food-beauty-gift-ideas-2024/

Where to Begin: Making a Difference in the World

 Many people have the admirable goal of changing the world. Every person has a desire to make a positive difference in the world, whether that be by fighting climate change, addressing social injustices, or just improving the quality of life in our communities. But given the scope of the world's problems, it's natural to feel overburdened and unclear of where to start. So, where should we begin and how?

Begin by being yourself. 
The path to transforming the world frequently starts with introspection and personal development. Consider carefully what your strengths, values, and passions are. Which topics most appeal to you? What resources or abilities do you have that can help bring about positive change? Gaining a deeper grasp of who you are will help you focus your efforts on issues that are important to you.

Learn for Yourself.
An effective instrument for transformation is knowledge. Make the effort to educate yourself on the topics that are important to you. Make an effort to learn more about complicated topics, whether it be through credible web sources, movies, or books. Seek out opposing viewpoints and use critical thought to create well-informed opinions.

Start Small. 
Big gestures aren't always necessary to make a difference. Choose doable steps you can take to improve your immediate zone of influence to start small. It might be helping out at a neighborhood shelter, taking part in a clean-up of the neighborhood, or patronizing morally-minded companies. Every tiny deed of compassion and kindness has the power to have a beneficial knock-on effect.

Connect and Work Together:
Collective action and teamwork are frequently necessary to bring about significant change. Make contact with groups or persons who share your values and are pursuing related objectives. Through collaborative efforts, idea sharing, and resource sharing, you may multiply your influence and accomplish more as a group than you could on your own.

Accept Perseverance:
It takes a marathon, not a sprint, to change the world. In the face of challenges and disappointments, it calls for endurance, forbearance, and patience. Hold fast to your principles and goals, even in the face of difficult or sluggish development. Keep in mind that while significant change requires time and work, each step we take will get us one step closer to our objectives.

In the end, all it takes to transform the world is one small step—one deed of compassion, one instance of understanding, one resolve to make a difference. Every one of us can make a difference in the world by beginning small, keeping informed, and cooperating with others. Where will you start, then?

Refernces: 

Catherine Plus. (2023). Inspirational Quote - Vin and Vintage. Pinterest. https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/246361042095242520/

Remembering Araw ng Kagitingan: Honoring Filipino Valor in World War II

 There are times in history that embody a nation's bravery, tenacity, and selflessness. The Philippines observes April 9 as Araw ng Kagitingan, or the Day of Valor, to honor one such occasion. This day acts as a somber reminder of the incredible bravery and unwavering determination of Filipino combatants in World War II.

Filipinos have a particular place in their hearts for Araw ng Kagitingan because it honors the bravery shown by our heroes in the face of insurmountable circumstances. The Fall of Bataan, which occurred on April 9, 1942, was a significant event in Philippine history. For months, despite being greatly outnumbered and outgunned, American and Filipino men bravely defended Bataan from the Japanese invasion. They fought with unrelenting courage and resolve in the face of extreme challenges including starvation, disease, and tiredness.

Following Bataan's capitulation, thousands of American and Filipino POWs were forcibly marched to prison camps and subjected to unimaginable atrocities during the notorious Bataan Death March. Throughout the difficult voyage, several of them died, but their spirit of fortitude never wavered.

Araw ng Kagitingan honors the resilience of the Filipino soul while also remembering a tragic period of pain and loss. It serves as a reminder of the costs paid by our ancestors to preserve democracy, freedom, and national sovereignty. Their bravery urges us to preserve the ideals of bravery, patriotism, and solidarity in remembrance of them and acts as an eternal inspiration for future generations.

As we commemorate Araw ng Kagitingan today, let us pause to consider the heroic legacy left to us by those who bravely battled and lost their lives in defense of our nation. In remembrance of their bravery, let us work toward a more equitable and better society that values the liberties they battled to protect. May their bravery continue to encourage us to persevere in the face of difficulty, as they did on that terrible day in Bataan, and may their sacrifice never be forgotten.

Reference:

Tan, N. (2014). Fast Facts: Araw ng Kagitingan. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/54998-fast-facts-araw-kagitingan-bataan/. 

EMPOWER A COMMUNITY

Community-based research offers a special way to find out what makes a place tick. It involves immersing oneself in the fabric of a community, listening to its tales, and comprehending its needs rather than merely gathering facts. My personal community-based research experience has been fulfilling and illuminating, providing insights that textbooks could never convey.

Above all, community-based research made me realize how crucial it is to establish rapport and trust. I took some time to get to know the community members before diving into the nuances of the study process. I made a conscious effort to build relationships, whether it was by striking up informal talks at get-togethers or taking part in neighborhood activities. This trusting relationship set the stage for productive cooperation all the way through the research project.

The chance to interact directly with community people was one of the most memorable parts of performing community-based research. Instead of simply seeing things from a distance, I made an effort to get opinions and insights from people with different experiences and backgrounds. I learned a great deal about the difficulties, goals, and desires of the community through focus groups, interviews, and interactive workshops.

Community-based research was not without its difficulties, though. It took skill and compassion to negotiate the intricate social dynamics and power structures within the community. Conflicting interests and points of view occasionally emerged, requiring cautious compromise and consensus-building. Furthermore, real obstacles that required innovative solutions were presented by logistical roadblocks like scarce resources and bureaucratic procedures.

The benefits of community-based research were numerous despite these difficulties. The inclusion of community people' views and experiences in our research resulted in more nuanced and significant conclusions. Our research produced information that wasn't limited to scholarly publications; instead, it influenced real-world projects and actions meant to meet the needs of the community.

In addition, the process of carrying out community-based research involved a voyage of introspection and personal development. It made me face my own prejudices and presumptions and helped me to understand the richness and variety of human experiences. It also gave me a strong feeling of empathy and a dedication to social justice, which motivated me to fight for significant change both inside and outside of the community.

To sum up, working on community-based research was a life-changing opportunity that went beyond academic confines. It helped me understand the importance of sincere participation, teamwork, and empathy when tackling difficult social challenges. It was a voyage of empowerment, connection, and discovery that went beyond a simple study approach and left a lasting impression on the community as well as myself.

References: 

www.blogger.com

Honoring Tradition: Highschool Day at ISNHS

 I can’t help but to think about the times when we were supposed to celebrate Highschool Day as students. 

On foundation Day at Ilocos Sur National Highschool, excitement and eagerness were in the air on campus. There was a hint of a remarkable day ahead in the fresh morning air. I couldn't help but feel proud to be a part of such a dynamic community as youngsters poured onto the school grounds, bursting with energy and wearing a clean uniform. 

I was running late when people at my school gathered around the school to prepare the first part of the day. It was a parade — a long walk outside the school. It was tiring since the route we were walking to was actually kind of far from the school and it was hot as hell. 

After that parade, we had time to rest to prepare our energy and confidence to perform. It was a competition among girls and boys in grade 7, 8, 9, and 10. I found myself taking part in a spontaneous dance-off near the main stage. With music blaring from the speakers and students showcasing their best moves, it was a moment of pure joy and camaraderie. In that moment, it didn't matter who won or lost – what mattered was the sense of unity and belonging that permeated the air. I joined my friends in cheering as they dance their butts off. The energy was infectious, and even those who weren’t directly involved couldn’t help but get swept up in the competitive spirit. It was so much fun having to watch them despite the crowdedness. Even though I, together with my girls, didn’t win the competition, at least the boys from our age did.

LOVE in BLOOM: Valentine’s Day

 

Valentine's Day has developed into a day to celebrate love and affection, filled with demonstrations of gratitude and love for those you care about. It is significant in a number of ways.

First, Celebration of Love. Valentine's Day is a day to celebrate love in all of its manifestations, including friendship, familial affection, and romantic love between couples. It acts as a prompt to treasure and show love to the significant individuals in our lives. 

Second, Cultural Tradition. Valentine's Day has become firmly embedded in many cultures across the world over time. Its cultural significance as a day of love is enhanced by the exchange of presents, cards, flowers, and romantic gestures during its celebration.

Third, Strengthening Relationships. Valentine's Day gives couples a chance to deepen their relationship by showing each other how much they care and how much they appreciate each other with considerate gifts and deeds of kindness.

Fourth, it can also contribute to Economic Impact. The event has a huge economic impact on the world economy, from the sales of greeting cards, flowers, and chocolates to the money made by restaurants and other businesses offering special Valentine's Day specials.

Fifth, Expression of Emotions. Valentine's Day gives a lot of people an opportunity to express feelings that they might not normally express or show in their daily lives. It enables people to express their gratitude and sentiments for their loved ones honestly.

Sixth, Romantic Tradition: Valentine's Day has come to represent romanticism, encouraging individuals to go above and beyond to show their loved ones how much they mean to them. On this day, extravagant displays of affection are not only welcomed but also urged.

And lastly, Cultural Phenomenon: Valentine's Day has shaped social views of love, romance, and relationships through its representation in popular culture, literature, and film. 

Valentine's Day is significant because it can help people connect, spread love and kindness, and remember how important it is to show affection for one another, even though some people may think it is too commercialized or only for romantic couples.

References: 

www.blogger.com

Estudyantepreneur: Another Event to Reminisce

 As I made my way through the crowded area, I saw some things that captured my eyes. Some booths that I honestly think were boring and booths that I feel like it is worth to spend my time to. 

There were laptops set-ups at the front which features old computer games. I actually didn’t even bother to look at it for a time enough to know about it. 

There were also food corners that sell Empanadas and other snacks. I wasn’t hungry that time so once again, I didn’t bother to look at it. But the snacks were good, my classmates told me. 

I saw a booth which they showcased their services such as Basic Repair, Printing, and Laminating. 

Only one booth I find very interesting. I was captivated by the film booth. I, together with my friends, think that the time we spent to watch the film entitled “Under the Tree Trunks” was worth it. Just for us to watch the film made by Grade 8 students, first, we waited for minutes because there were still people who were watching it. When finally it was our turn, I really think that we were just wasting our time. But I realized I made a mistake. The film was good, from start to finish. I felt goosebumps while watching it. It is very visible that they inserted effort into the project. I’m not in a place to say something like this but I can say that the students who participated onto the project have potential. Whoever the students are, I am proud of them. After the film viewing, we, Grade 10s, said our opinions about it. “Nag mayat jy film” “Ang touching ng film” “Talo pa tayo ng Grade 8”, These were just some few positive feedbacks that were uttered by my classmates. We all agree that it was the best out of the rest. 

As I stepped to leave the event, I can only bring my memories with me. I might not be able to learn things connected with ICT but at least I gained another interesting experience. That film really had impact on me. I realized that even when you are young, you are capable on doing big things. Estudyantepreneur highlights students showcasing their skills and talents. 

References: 

www.blogger.com