That Grade One Question

I was done reading Bob Ong's first book, ABNKKBSBPLAko, and was so inspired and excited to keep my plans rolling. Unlike my sister whose ambition since grade 1 is to become a teacher, and she was very consistent, I did the opposite way. I did not have any ambition except when you are obliged to reply to a famous question in grade one (Filipino subject) like, "Ano ang gusto mo maging paglaki mo?" And then some would say, "A doctor. Engineer. Teacher. Etc." Since all of my classmates answered pretty golden jobs, I would say, "I wanna become a lawyer."

The teacher says, "You are gonna become a great lawyer someday. " Amen.

But during those times, that was the only profession I knew because it is something not commonly said. And I can't think of anything to say at seven years old.

Decision time. When i was on my final year in high school, choosing a college to enroll has been the greatest battle I have to face. What career to chose is the most confusing thing to decide. My future depends on my real answers to that grade one question.

My pen wrote BS Marine Biology in my DOST scholarship application. It was a beautiful choice way back that time becaue I was so inspired to get revenge over my Biology teacher who told me that I was a cheater. And to show to her that I love Biology and cheating is, well, not something one should do with a subject you loved. Hah! (What a poor way to seek revenge). But I didn't pass. Good for me. And revenge doesn't do you any good. I can't become a Marine Biologist because I can't swim. How could I possibly investigate those creatures down that murky water? Smile.

I tried to listen to what my heart dictates me. I did not dream of becoming involved in the media, do beats, reporting and getting paid for articles I made. And maybe because I was exposed to journalism way back in my earlier years in grade school and was so involved with our school publication in high school (news editor for four years) that I just did what I felt was the right thing to do. When I heard the news that I passed UPCAT, instead of Biology and Psychology which I wrote on my UPCAT application, I changed it to Mass Comm. I changed it when I was about to submit my final requirements at the College Secretary's Office.

Anyways, I decided to take up Mass Communications for its the closest thing that I could be happy with. My college years was fun and very exciting. It is as if I wasn't studying at all. Every exam even how difficult it was for my poor brain was as exciting as having ice cream on a very hot summer. I failed a subject only once and it was really quite disappointing. It was of course, the almighty Math 1. Toink! Yes, I dropped dead when I saw that my student number's corresponding grade was red. A big mark of 5. But it was fun. I retaked math 1 on my final semester in college. No fuss. I finished and wore my sablay proudly as I marched down familiar grounds.

But then again, there was that something missing. And I found out that we share the same passion with my sister, and that's teaching. That's why, I am sending myself to school again. Take those requirements to get a teacher's license and after that... become a lawyer since my mother is so convinced that I can become one. Heh! I guess there was really some touch of truth on that grade one question. A lawyer perhaps but teaching as my proffession. Hmmm can't wait to face my first batch of students!

Mga Kwentong Chalk. This book narrates a very colorful, a bit bitter, and a bit un-inspired school life of a very delightful character who was the author itself. I instantly fell in love with Bob Ong (and wonder what he looks like). Swear! Ma-inspire gyud ka to become a teacher. I am finishing few of the last pages of Stainless Longanisa and hopefully, I could read three more of his books. And I thank Lucille for letting me read it. I have seen his books in the book store but did not bother to pick it up. Thank you so much Cille.

And after dreadful posts of my bitterness, it is time to shake off some dusts. I am going through a long process. And it takes time. It takes time. Take a single step each day. I love myself.