Next. Part Trois.

Tuesday, 28th of July, 2009.
I was sick since Saturday and didn't attend school until Wednesday. Turns out, Theology week was around the corner, and I was nominated by the 2COE1 class of THEO03 to be the Essay Writing Contest Representative. I was very flattered, of course, and very surprised to know that they knew I "wrote stuff". I was going to defend my "title(?)" as "Essay Writing Contest Winner" (WTF, that sounded lame). As soon as I got back to school, July 30th, I asked Ma'am Clarence about it. And I was given the Theme:

"Dominikanong Pinunong Lingkod:
Tagapagpalaganap ng Katotohanan at Kapayapaan sa Sang Katauhan."

Yeah. Letran loves this Tagalog thingy-s. Another WTF! moment. Like I did before, I began deconstructing and reconstructing the statement and translated it into English.
So, my closest translation was:

"The Dominican Servant-Leader:
Herald of Truth and Peace to (Humanity/Society/Mankind)"

So there. I started working on it. It is by far, the HARDEST piece to write about. I cannot elaborate it much, for it is already self-explanatory (and the typical "giving examples" isn't really my style). So, i made a critique of it. I emphasized the role of a Leader in current Society and current events. And also, that a LEADER should be a SERVANT. I learned in THEO2 that Jesus was a King, yet he Served! He was a Leader, but he Followed. I didn't care about the Dominican thing much, as it isn't really important in my opinion. Anyone, regardless of Religious Sect, Race or Gender, should understand their roles as Leaders and Servants.

The Essay was on Tuesday, August 11, and I was not really ready for it. I sat and wrote, two whole pages, but it still wasn't enough. Turns out, there was a unwritten rule that you can only have 2 papers, but I contested that It was not written in the Mechanics and that a writer should be "free" on how long he wants to express his Ideals. I convinced them and let me continue on another paper. I had the longest essay in the Contest, I was the only one who had multiple papers. The Latter part of my Essay kinda broke down, i was writing in circles and repeated too many cheezy "Pro-Letran" statements. (*ugh*)

I recieved word about the Awarding Ceremonies on Thursday, August 13, but I wasn't able to attend (probably I was too busy hanging out with friends). I just planned to ask one of the Professors next time. I was hanging 'round ICST building (harrasing passers-by), when i saw Ma'am Maningas, my THEO2 Professor. I asked her about the contest and told me (she thinks) I won. But I checked the Posts and asked around, there wasn't any proof yet.

So Friday, August 19, I asked Ma'am Clarence about it. And Yes, I Won. I Won... Second Place. I was quite surprised i won but dismayed that I didn't achieve three consecutive wins. I recieved an Envelope with something in it. I was even more surprised and dismayed when i found out what was inside. A small box of assorted mini school supplies, a magic pencil (if you grew up in the Philippines, you probably know what that is) and 3 colored pentel pens.

Yes, another WTF! moment. Honestly, i felt kinda insulted, as i think i deserve even just a certificate. I was not after money or anything, but i just wanted some proof that i entered this contest and won second place. Maybe it was even better if they gave me nothing at all. I'm not being a primma donna, i know i should be thankful, but knowing how much heart and soul i pour in every piece i write, it just feels it wasn't worth the effort. Well, life's like that.

I still hope there will be a Next. Part Quatre, though.
I'll never stop, Coz I can never stop.

Past. AAM.
Present. Letran.
Next. The World (still dreaming.)

See Ya 'round.

*Thanks to EVERYONE who gave their support and prayers and to those who believe and STILL believe in ME. I LOVE Y'ALL. PEAYCE.*

~Migs.Miggy.