TOUGHER, THE BETTER…

I came from a poor family. My father was a security guard in a public school in our city and my mother is a dressmaker. Probably because I’m the only child, so their income was just enough for the three of us. It’s our parents’ dream to send us to a good school for a better education and to have a brighter future ahead of us. They are always willing to do everything for their children and even sacrifice just to meet both ends. Despite my parents’ low income, they were able to send me to a private catholic school. I was so lucky that I had a very good foundation. I believed that elementary school should always be the best because that is your foundation. It’s like building a house. The foundation must be strong and well-equipped with all the best materials so that no matter how strong the storm it will never be destroyed. Although our school was just a few distance from home, it was not easy for me going to school everyday especially that most of my classmates came from rich and well-to-do families. I remember that I had only 2 faded uniforms every grade level and a very old cheap worn out shoes. There were times that I didn’t have snacks or money to buy anything during break time and just stay in my seat and watched my classmates enjoying every bite. I didn’t enjoy my childhood like normal kids do. Although I am the only child, I was deprived with everything…toys, clothes, time to play, play with other kids and everything what the normal kids do and have. I had to be home early because I had house chores to do and since we didn’t have our own water, I had to go to our neighbour’s pump or well to get water and then I had to help my mother. In short, my childhood life was tough. Then I transferred to a public school where my father works. Luckily, I finished teaching course in college despite my parents’ income and the tuition fee increase. But teaching wasn’t my choice. My parents could not afford my choice. For the sake of respect, I did my best and was able to get good grades. I took the board exam for teachers just for the sake of completing what I had started. I never expected that I would pass. Despite all the tough times I went through I’ve always been thankful for it because it moulds me to be what I am right now. The way I think about doing something is influenced by my past experiences and where I am and who I am with right now, is a combination of opportunity and right timing.

(July 15, 2008)