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jlealyza · 11 months

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Unveiling the Joy Within

When I randomly decided to apply for the Special Program in Journalism, it was the best decision I've ever made. After years of training and practicing, I am finally back at the Regional Schools Press Conference. So here I am, unveiling the joy that happened during my two-day experience at the RSPC in Punta Villa Resort, Iloilo City.

On Day Zero, we had to travel a day ahead of the contest since it took four hours to reach the venue. As I woke up exactly at 4 a.m., I was filled with excitement. I prepared all my things and got ready to go. Since there were no vehicles available in the early morning, I walked to our meeting place in the plaza. I stopped by the 7/11 to buy some snacks and then headed to the church to light a candle and pray. Afterward, we were off to Iloilo City.

Our first stop was in San Joaquin, and there wasn't much for me to do since I had nowhere to go. I simply stayed inside the van. Then our last stop was the venue. We waited a few minutes at the receptionist and left our baggage at the front desk since our room wasn't ready. We went to the cafeteria/poolside to have our lunch. Since I didn't bring my own lunch, I ordered chicken. Afterward, we killed some time while waiting for our room. (I don't know why I am writing this with so many details)

The first thing I did was explore the venue. Although it was my second time there, I didn't have enough time to fully explore it during my first visit. I talked to my friends, practiced, and read articles. Around 3 p.m., our room was finally ready, so we rested and I continued to practice. At 5 p.m., we had dinner, took some pictures, and visited different areas of the venue. Everything was so beautiful, and I had a lot of fun exploring the place. Around 7 p.m., we went to the rooftop, and that was the best part. From there, I could see the entire city, and it was breathtaking. The lights were bright, although it was still dark on the rooftop. It was a beautiful sight that met my eyes. After spending some time there, we went back to our room, practiced a little more, and then woke up at 3 a.m.

When my roommate's alarm rang, I immediately woke up and couldn't fall back asleep, so I read some articles. The only downside was that I had no internet connection since the Wi-Fi wasn't working, and I had to connect to a hotspot to access the internet. We had breakfast, and I could see a lot of people who would also be my rival (hehe) in writing. However, all I focused on was doing my best. The opening program went well, and I reminded myself to give my best.

My contest was scheduled to be the first one, so I had no time to review. When it started, I had to rely on the facts I had memorized and trust my instincts. It was challenging, but I didn't hold back and gave it all. After finishing my article, I felt relieved and happy. We had lunch, and it started raining heavily, not just a drizzle. We had to decide whether to run back to our room or head to the poolside. Eventually, we all ran back to our rooms to grab our umbrellas (and it was so funny that we all just ran and had no idea what to do).

I had to prepare for the awarding/Saludo. Although I had a gut feeling that I wouldn't win, I was still excited. I knew that Ma'am Tin would win the Most Outstanding School Paper Adviser because I believed she deserved it and we actually both applied this year. As for me, I did my best, but maybe this wasn't meant for me (for now, I guess?). As I expected, Ma'am Tin ranked first in MOSPA, and I placed second in MOCJ.

I didn't feel any heartbreak feelings because I knew I gave my best, and that's all I could do. After the awarding, I spent the night making fun memories. First, after dinner, I went to the election for the writing guild, where I met new friends from different cities/provinces/places. I was elected as the secretary. We played a lot of games at the poolside and ate some pizza. We went to bed past midnight, knowing that the next day would be a tough one at the awarding ceremony.

And indeed, it was a difficult day. How could I celebrate others' winning moments when I wasn't happy with my own result? It was the first time I cried after finding out that I didn't win. It was hard for me because I had given my best. I never missed a practice session or skipped any meetings/training/sessions, and I knew deep down that I had done my best. But then Ma'am Tin comforted us, and I realized that nothing was wasted. There are things beyond our control, and someday it will all make sense.

I didn't have the appetite to eat, so I just went back to our room. While waiting for our door keys, I heard my roommate crying over the phone, which made me cry again. The three of us entered our room, and I locked the door. One friend went to the bathroom to cry, while I went to my bed and cried into my pillow. I could hear the conversation of my other friend. Then I set a 10-minute alarm on my phone because I thought I needed to eat and didn't want to waste the meal ticket. The three of us reflected on what had just happened, and I forced all three of them to eat, even though it was difficult.

Eventually, we decided to eat, and we were ready to go home. I packed all my things, and when my alarm rang at 12 noon, we went outside to eat. Afterward, we didn't head straight home because we decided to go to SM Mall to have some fun. I explored the place, bought some food, and then headed home. We arrived in Antique at 7 p.m. I went home and told my family everything. I was happy because they weren't disappointed, and they were happy with my achievement of getting second place in the award.

The best thing was that I returned the money that I didn't spend. I only took a small amount for buying them some food. I spent a lot using my own savings because my parents invested a lot in supporting me, but I knew we needed money for my mom's treatment and medications. So, I hesitated to spend their money. All the expenses were mine, including paying for the hotel. That's why I cried because I felt like I wasted my money. (yet, NOTHING WAS WASTED). But anyway, as I said, there are things beyond our control, and this is just the beginning. I'll come back again and work even harder (not that I didn't work hard this time). I just want to say that I'll still give my very best, and I hope everything falls into place the next time I join the contest. Nevertheless, I was so happy that I finally experienced those lovely memories and I had a good time writing this one. Until my next Campus Journalism experience, I'll write it again very soon.

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jlealyza · 11 months

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jlealyza · 11 months

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Finding Peace in the Midst of Chaos

When I was a baby, my constant cries disrupted the peace my parents longed for. Even in the darkest hours, my wails echoed through the night like a siren's call. My mother recounted so many tales of my childhood days that were filled with tantrums and crying, leaving her exasperated. I didn't know the idea of peace back then. How could one so innocent comprehend the concept of peace that lie beyond the boundaries of their understanding?

To me, I discovered that peace means the simple absence of noise or conflict. It was a serene state of being, like floating among the stars in the sky, where silence covered everything. In that stillness, worries ceased to exist, and our minds found solace.

But peace, I would come to learn, was bigger beyond my understanding. I was introduced to the history of our country when I was in elementary but it was only in high school that the stuff I heard when I was younger was disproved. I realized how it's been a long way of chaos to get the peace that we have. As I reflect, it becomes clear that achieving peace has been a challenging and complex journey that we shouldn't take for granted.

Peace is not simply the absence of conflict; it is a state of harmony and mutual respect. This transformative process is not achieved overnight; it demands patience, resilience, and a commitment to learning from the mistakes of the past. While my parents may not have experienced the peace they desired when I was a baby, as I grew older, I strive to cultivate a peaceful environment within our home.

A peaceful world is a place where people consciously choose kindness. It is a world where individuals understand the power of their actions and the ripple effect they can create. When we choose kindness, we set in motion a chain reaction that can lead to profound and positive changes. But how can we find peace in the midst of chaos?

Finding peace amid chaos does not mean escaping or avoiding the external circumstances that surround us. Instead, it involves cultivating a sense of stillness and harmony within ourselves, regardless of the chaos that may be present. It is a conscious choice to anchor ourselves in the present moment, embracing its inherent uncertainty and accepting that chaos is a natural part of life.

Education stands as a powerful tool to cultivate peace. By promoting inclusive learning, we can equip future generations with the values of empathy, tolerance, and respect. Education systems should prioritize teaching conflict resolution skills, intercultural understanding, and global citizenship. Through knowledge, understanding, and open communication, we can bridge the dividing society and foster a shared commitment to peace.

Moreover, investing in peaceful negotiations is also crucial to resolving conflicts. Nonviolent communication can help conflicting parties find common ground and reach mutually beneficial agreements. By valuing dialogue over confrontation, we can prevent violence and promote reconciliation.

As I look back on my early years, I appreciate the lessons I learned from my restless baby days and my temperamental childhood. Those experiences taught me the importance of peace and how it greatly affects our well-being. Now, I make an effort to bring a sense of peace into my own life and the world around me. I've come to realize that peace is not a final destination; it's a deep and meaningful journey of the soul. Peace is not the absence of chaos; it is the calmness we carry amidst the chaos, a light that guides us through the darkest of times. We must embrace it, cherish it, and let it illuminate the path that lies ahead of us.

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jlealyza · 11 months

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In 2018, I entered the AVS Special Program in Journalism and The AVS Courier that served as my home for the past five years. They have witnessed how I have grown and evolved as a writer. Little did I know that this path would lead me to countless opportunities that I never imagined.

During the application for the Most Outstanding Campus Journalist, I initially found myself slacking off in processing my documents. Doubt crept into my mind, making me question whether I could make it to the top three. But then I realized that when the opportunity presents itself– I should go for it. The opportunities are there; it's only up to us if we are willing enough to grab them. That is why I go for it and I don't take it for granted.

This award is not just for me but for everyone who has been part of my journey, supporting me through both ups and downs. I am beyond grateful to all of you who helped me throughout the process and never left my side.

To my AVS Special Program in Journalism and The AVS Courier family, thank you for being my home where I can find comfort. I am always grateful that I have a family to run to.

To Ma'am Tin, who has consistently been there for me, through happy times and heavy ones. Thank you ma'am for believing in my capabilities ever since I joined the program. You have taught us to believe in ourselves and instilled in us the true value of campus journalism– that it goes beyond competition. I will always be grateful and blessed to have you, ma'am.

To the SPJ OGs, Thank you for always being there for me, offering help and cheering me on.

To my adviser and subject teachers, thank you for always being considerate when I had to do both my academic responsibilities and journalism.

To all those who extend their support to help us reach the Regional Schools Press Conference, thank you gid po sa tanan nyo nga bulig.

To my family and friends, this one's for you! Thank you for never leaving my side and continuously supporting me.

JULLEA ALYZA RIZARDO POLARON

RSPC 2023 Editorial Writing (Filipino) Qualifier

Second Place, Most Outstanding Campus Journalist

Secretary, Regional Young Writer's Guild

We've always been reminded that whenever things don't go our way, it's not that we are failing, but we call it a learning experience. And it allowed us to gain perspective of how things should be and these are the things that I will continue to carry on through life.

Although I may not have qualified for NSPC 2023, it doesn't mean that my JOURNey come to an end here. I strive to competition but I try to go beyond it because, at the end of the day, all the things that I've done should benefit the greater good.

I wanted to define my achievements not only because of my personal awards but also of the things I've done beyond what is expected of us and the impact that I do. Some things are beyond our control but I believe that what is meant for you will always be there. I give back all the honor and glory to you, Lord!

Sa ngayon, hindi man sumang-ayon ang panahon. Ngunit hindi ito dahilan upang ako'y tumigil at sumuko. Lagi't lagi, patuloy kong itataguyod ang tunay na halaga ng pamamahayag na pangkampus.

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jlealyza · 1 year

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Journalism

2023 Division Schools Press Conference

I was in seventh grade when I had my first DSPC contest in secondary, and years later, life brought me here.

Following our midterm examination, I made a conscious effort to balance my studies with Journalism. Everything felt different now, and I knew I had to adapt. During my vacant period in our class schedule, I dedicated myself to practicing and reading a lot of articles. While others thought I was taking notes diligently in class, I was actually improving my writing skills—truly the queen of multitasking hehe.

The AVS Courier and The AVS SPJ taught me the real essence of Campus Journalism. It made me realize that the true value of Campus Journalism, goes beyond any competition because there are bigger things than winning.

And that’s when I’ve been so interested and inclined to learn that I spent more time watching news and reading articles. It had a profound impact on me, how I put in a lot of effort to balance my academics with Journalism. How I went to each training over and over again. How many candles I lit and prayers, I prayed. (and still even got to the point of believing superstitions and doing rituals before the contest haha) How many times I doubted myself, but I'm glad I made it here.

So don't blame yourself for the things that weren't under your control. After all, we are not failing, we are learning. Always get up and try again because as long as you did your best, your moment will come. The things that are meant for you will always be there. Padayon lang!

Ps. pls excuse my errors, filipino writer po ako hehehe

1st place, Editorial Writing 🏅

8th place, Column Writing 🏅

Thank you to all who stood by my side, supported me (plus, financially haha), and believed in my capabilities. Labyu, all < 3

I give back all the honor and glory to you, Lord! 🙏🏼

Narito po aming mga tips/payo mula sa Grade 11 Seniors/OG SPJ (eme eme lang, might delete it later)

1. Pray

2. Practice

3. Mapalapak sa baby/trophy

4. Matablug ka piso sa Malbog Bridge haha

5. Hindi anay mag haircut and nailcut before contest

6. Dapat may dara kaw nga picture ni Jessica Soho, Atom Araullo, and Patricia Evangelista sa awarding (effective daw hambal da)

7. Secret, no clue haha : )

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jlealyza · 1 year

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It’s me, hi.

9:30 pm, it was when silence devoured the white tinted walls of the hospital and all that was left was the sound of a crying baby. Happiness and an overwhelming sense of love and affectionwere felt inside the ward when a child's voice came into the world on Tuesday, July 4, 2006– the day that I was born. My name is Jullea Alyza Polaron and I'm a normal girl with a normal life who lived and laughed until the day the sky fell. If you want to take a broad view of myself, it began with the way I lived during my childhood days.

I lived on the main residential street in the town of Bugasong. It was a peaceful when I first knew it. On rainy days the streets turned to puddles where we can play; grass grew on the sidewalks; children are having fun after their three-o'clock naps, and by nightfall, we rushed home. I always find home in the memories and moments that make me feel the most of "me".

When I thought more in-depth about myself, I started out by describing my family background. My brother was the product of my parent's first year of marriage and two years later I was born. My father, Larry Polaron, is a Philippine Navy who spent most of the time of his work outside of Bugasong. While my mother, Graziela Polaron, is a housewife. I have 3 brothers who something I can't get along with because I'm the only girl.

Growing up, I always believe that we are not defined by the things we do but rather by the people we are and those we love. That is how I wanted to be defined. Who are you when nobody's watching?

I know myself better than anyone else. My heart has beaten about 665, 832, 937 times that swells with admiration. I'm one of those people who loves the little things. Like how the sun with deep colors touched the horizon and turned the sky so beautiful.

In values in life, some would say that our parents and school are responsible for shaping us to be a person of value, but I disagree. Because we are already of infinite value and they just went to great lengths to show us the right values that we need to carry in this world. All of the things I learned were only meant to awaken that value.

During my first four years at Antique Vocational School, I applied for the Special Program in Journalism which gave me some of the best years of my life. It never entered my mind to join SPJ until I randomly decided to do so. Being part of the pioneer batch of SPJ become a very significant part of my life and has changed me a lot.

It had a profound impact on me, how I put in a lot of effort to balance my academics with journalism. How I went to each training over and over again. How many candles I lit and prayers, I prayed. How many times I doubted myself, but still, choose to keep going and I'm glad I made it here.

I was able to step out of my comfort zone because I know I have something to move towards. To learn from and to grow with. No words come close enough to describe how grateful I am to be part of this. But just like any other chapter, this one must also come to an end.

It's true that in an instant–our lives can change and years later, life brought me here. I am now a senior high school student in science technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Everything will be tough but such is life. A lot of things are difficult to understand while I’m going through them, but every step I’ve taken has been part of the path that is meant for us.

I've been vocal about what I believed in because what will you fall for if you stand for nothing? I think excluding yourself in the fight to support something will thrive on mass inaction and silence which makes it complicit in the harm caused. It does not exempt a person from taking part in a harmful system that is why our voice must be heard and let us be part of the solution. I've also accepted that my quietness was some sort of a trap but I just wanted to hold some of the words tightly and use them carefully because I fear some words that may come out of our mouth. This is why I talk less. I talk to people but not as much as when I write.

I am also an adventurous person. Living in this life means living life to the fullest, right? So when something sounds exciting, sign me up. I just love jumping in, even if the results aren't always perfect. That is why when an opportunity presents itself, I don't take it for granted.

People think that I'm lucky to be smart and that I don't have to worry about getting good grades, but I'm not. I always believe that I'm an average person who worked hard for what I have now. I don't want to be crumbled under the weight of their expectations. Instead, I open as many doors as I can, and let the world close it for me.

There's something about living life deliberately, it takes time before you find what feels like a deliberate choice that reflects more of you. As for me, it is when I play my favorite Taylor Swift song; sing along to the lyrics; and feel the fascinating rhythm and the vibration as they change the mood around me.

It is when I'm watching a K–drama or movies that excite me and represents my actual mood. It is the way I eat my favorite, cookies n cream ice cream without any distractions, noticed every bite, and taste every flavor that covers my tongue. How the wind blowing through your hair and the heat of the rays of sun hit my skin and how I notice every small beautiful things.

We must always remember the value of never letting a moment pass by and treasuring each day. Every struggle we face allows us to rediscover the very good in ourselves such as the values that we have. Sometimes there's a big hole in your soul that you just have to fill up and if there's one person who knows you very well that will pick up all the pieces of your soul, It'll always be yourself. How bout you, how do you define yourself?

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jlealyza · 2 years

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Our Life in this world is full of possibilities and never-ending mysteries of truly sorrowful and joyful moments. Sometimes we feel that there is no purpose, and it seems like a meaningless one. Like how can life that claims to be right, end up so wrong? And we asked ourselves: what did we do to deserve this? But I do hope we will still hold on to the value of life and appreciate the beautiful things in this world. It’s true that in an instant—the world has changed in an uncertain way. But it’s not too late to rebuild it. I know we can make a change and we can always start with ourselves.

This is life now perhaps let us face it. From the bright lights of the most far-flung village, towns, and big cities. Noise from the traffic, car smoke, smog, and trash over the places. They introduce us to the life we live in. The world is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which include rising temperatures, excessive rainfall, an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events, and high sea level. Over many years, worsening the global state because of climate change is still the problem that we are facing. For those who are unaware, the term "climate crisis" refers to the effects of climate change and global warming. The phrase has been used to emphasize the need for serious climate change mitigation and to describe the threat that global warming poses to the world.

The Climate crisis has turned the spotlight on one of the problems that haven’t been resolved until now. According to the Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC), at least 85% of the world's population is affected by climate change. We need action and accountability because the world will not be saved on social media. I know that this can be a way to share awareness and calls to action, but it shouldn’t stop there. The work doesn’t end there. Awareness is absolutely needed in the fight against the climate crisis, but it is just the prerequisite to a much bigger fight. Our future lies within us, and we demand justice and safety for the human rights and environmental defenders who are most exposed to abuse and become victims of violence.

Let us formally recognize the climate emergency and take seriously the climate actions. “Without drastic action today, adapting to these impacts in the future will be more difficult and costly,” said the United Nations. Therefore, this gave me the courage to write for the unheard and the silenced. This is the least I can do for those who absolutely cannot. So, I hope that we should speak up for what is right and do something to have a solution. Individual actions can make an impact, but collective efforts will do in the fight against the climate crisis.

We need to understand that climate change is not just an environmental crisis. It is also a social, political, human rights, and global crisis. Climate change can be linked to another issue which is why our action toward the problem matter in order to create a ripple effect. The more we raise awareness, the more people can join in the movement for change. In this way, we can immediately combat climate change and its effect. We can build a green future where suffering is reduced, justice is upheld, and peace between people and the world is once again possible if we all work together.

What we want is a long-term solution not just waiting for someone to do the right thing. We need to halt new fuel fossil fuels projects and stop the abuse of the environmental defenders. Have racial, economic, and gender justice in climate policy, and spread the word about the climate crisis. Indigenous people and activists should be treated with respect as they are also fighting against climate change. Companies, especially those that use fossil fuels, must take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Let us also voice our concern because the world needs our voice to protect our motherland.

Our future is, quite often, a matter of choice that we make. So, we shouldn't wait until we're older to serve and make a difference. I know when you are young, some people assume you know nothing. But I knew that something was wrong. I may be young, but it will never stop me contribute to the world and I will make sure that we will overcome difficulties in life, including the injustice against human rights.

I was brought up in this kind of environment that made me choose to continue no matter what and support the right cause. These are the values that I won’t forget and moral integrity that I won’t regret in my lifetime. So let us choose to make this world a better place. In everything that we do, it should always be done with passion, with courage, and ultimately with love. A person who will serve this country with purpose, excellence, and integrity.

If only we can bring back the values of the old days. Many things are unclear to me, but one thing is absolutely clear, that some crimes are not coincidental or isolated acts, they are the unjust system that continues to oppress and harm marginalized people. I know that there are still values in each one of us that something incredibly powerful and hopeful about that. I don’t know what the future holds but I know that what we do today, decides our fate and the future of the world so let’s make better choices.

We must take a stand to wake the silent consciousness of other people. The bombardment of human rights violations has become so serious that made some people concerned about their lives. This is not okay, and we should not remain silent. All of us should have the right to safety and I’m tired of hearing news about violent crime and human rights violations because they aren’t just names on headlines. They could be a friend, a family, and they could even be me.

It's easy to get discouraged at times. In fact, with all the things that happen in life, it can be easy to completely lose your way. With all the victims of injustice, it is terrifying to think that all of these are still happening. It is the poor and marginalized people that take the burden of the unjust justice systems in a deeply unfair way. What we do impacts all, in some way so we should protect our rights.

We must not allow our, democracy, independence, human rights, and free principles to be neglected. Above all, we should make a move to stop the people who disregard the law and human rights. We must put an end to these injustices and be held accountable for what appear to be brutal, unprovoked attacks against civilians, and civil institutions in some places in the world.

According to the United Nations, International human rights law lays down the obligations of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups. We are all entitled to have rights, but why do some people have to suffer violence and not have the freedom of their rights? What did they do to deserve this?

Human rights are the basic liberties and rights that every person in the world is entitled to. It will be less likely to be able to meet the needs of its citizens, and more likely to be a threat to international peace and security if there is a violation of human rights. Denying people their legal right to exercise their freedom also constitutes a violation of their human rights. These human rights violations most often belittle marginalized persons.

“A UN human rights expert has expressed grave concern at the scale, severity and systematic nature of human rights violations perpetrated against religious and belief minorities in situations of conflict, in a report presented to the Human Rights Council today.” said the United Nations. With all these issues, how can we eradicate human rights abuses if no one supports the protection of the rights of all the citizens? This is something I look forward to, that we still have hope in our hearts and minds.

We must fight and support our human rights so that human decency will be back. What will you fall for if you stand for nothing? Staying out of these problems is a privilege, purposely excluding yourself from the discussion of the problems. It does not exempt a person from taking part in a harmful system that is why our voice must be heard and let us be part of the solution. We can all make an impact in many ways, like any injustice we must approach it and we should all agree that it needs to be addressed. The longer we wait to take meaningful action, the harder the problem becomes to solve, and the greater the risk.

I think excluding yourself in the fight to support human rights will thrive on mass inaction and silence which makes it complicit in the harm caused. So, we must act on these issues to end this. Let us raise awareness and encourage action to get involved in the help of supporting human rights. Show empathy and declare policy changes that ensure that human rights are respected. It is in the best interest of the government and its citizens to have such a discussion and create a law that should be started at the soonest possible time to penalize those who are causing harm.

More so, the first and most basic step is education not just for us, but for others as well. We need to know our human rights so that no one could take that away from us. Let us keep supporting the human rights principles, such as the rights to health, and education, and discourage discrimination to help build a protective environment and promotes social and legal protection. It is hoped that with our individual and collective efforts, we can minimize human rights violations.

The Climate crisis has a profound impact on our lives as well as on our human rights such as the rights to life, development, food, health, water and sanitation, and housing. Nations have a responsibility under international human rights law to protect people from the negative effects of climate change and to make sure that those who are impacted are safe, especially those who are marginalized people and in vulnerable circumstances. Even while everyone's life is in some way threatened by climate change, marginalized and indigenous are among those most likely to be impacted. So, we must have equality because we all equally deserve protection.

Human rights abuse and climate crisis are just some of the problems that we need to take seriously and have approaches to. These two issues can make an impact on our lives directly or indirectly. Climate justice must ensure that current human rights agreements, commitments, norms, and principles be respected in climate action. In order to respect, protect, promote, and fulfill all human rights for all, let us share the goal of better integrating human rights into climate action. All of us across the world should actively work on laws, initiatives, and solutions that will protect people and the earth.

Fighting the climate issue gives us the chance to guarantee that everyone has the right to a healthy environment, putting human welfare first. All of these problems will continue to harm all of us unless we take action. From a human rights perspective, initiatives to lessen climate change and prepare for its effects, it should expressly address how they affect human rights and be in line with current human rights agreements, commitments, standards, and principles. Life today, will be different tomorrow. As we grow the state of our world, the way we live, and ourselves also change. I hope it’s not too late. Let’s make this world a better place starting today and tomorrow.

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jlealyza · 2 years

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Sweet Sixteen

I know life will not always be sweet but I hope everything will fall into place. Happier times are coming.

Love, Jullea

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jlealyza · 2 years

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Leave a sign here.

I am finally 16, yay. I am writing this letter because I'm really curious, what if there is someone who reads all of my entries here? I mean, that's amazing, right? But there is also a downside. I don't know the person who's reading my letters. And I don't even know if there is?

I really wanted to know, if there is someone who's reading my entries please leave any signs or anything to prove you're reading my letters. You can greet me with a "happy birthday" haha.

Anyways maybe I am talking to myself and no one actually reading these very private letters. Today is my 16th birthday, and I am really happy that somehow there are people who remembered my special.

I know sometimes I questioned my existence and purpose here in life, but I'm glad I never did when it comes to my birthday. I still even celebrated it. This is just a reminder that our existence here has an impact on this world and it will never be the same if we are born here. So live your life. Our existence is precious enough to waste. I'll write more (and a special birthday letter)

Love, Jullea

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jlealyza · 2 years

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Any plans?

It’s been a while since I wrote something here. It has been overwhelming these past few months, and I still can’t believe it is halfway through a year. Life had been full of ups and downs, and it was a rollercoaster ride. But I still believe that there is hope and things will not remain forever (which is also a bad thing for me, especially since I have to step out into something unknown again) Anyways, should I still think that God has other plans for me? Or should I just stick to what I have for myself because maybe that’s what God plans for me? I mean, I just have to do all the things and experiences here because maybe it is what it is. Or should I take a little risk and see what’s next for me?

I know it sounds confusing right now. But what should I do? I prepared plans this year for me, but I still can’t figure out what I want. Oftentimes, I know our choices in life even the smallest ones, matter because these series of choices can have an impact on our lives. That’s what kept me going, knowing that even though I take a risk I know that I still going to the path that God stores for me. Even though I stay here and just show up, believe in myself, and keep going I know that God will always lead me the way to the right path.

Maybe I am being impatient with the things that are happening in life that I questioned what God’s plan is and why I feel overwhelmed by all of this. But I still hope that God will lead the way for me and help me to process myself onto the next chapter of my life. In the next few months, I have to take a big step toward what is unknown and unfamiliar to me. Things will be different but my faith won’t.

I pray that I find myself through all of this and help me guide to the path that was meant for me. To the life I hope and the plans I dream for myself and for other people. In the meantime, I will take the challenges in everyday life and keep going no matter what. I would love to see where these next choices would take me to. Onto the next endeavor, I am stronger than ever before.

Love, Jullea

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jlealyza · 2 years

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Our values in life

Without our values, what will become of us? Life is full of possibilities and never-ending mysteries of truly sorrowful and joyful moments. Sometimes we feel that there is no purpose, and it seems like a meaningless one. Like how can life that claims to be right, end up so wrong? And we asked ourselves: what did we do to deserve this? But I do hope we will still hold on to the value of life.

It’s true that in an instant—our lives can change. But we will always look back to the values that we have which served as a compass to the life we live in. It is a gift that has been given to us and meant for us. Our values may be varied but they can make an impact to guide us wherever we go. I grew up in a province, and I know there’s a different life out there. But with the values I have, I know that I will find my way through all of this. It will surely remind me that even though the journey is long and winding, there is a life to be lived along the way. Some would say that our parents and school are responsible for shaping us to be a person of value, but I disagree. Because we are already of infinite value and they just went to great lengths to show us the right values that we need to carry in this world.

All of the things I learned from my parents and the people who stood by my side were only meant to awaken that value. We are born precious and unique human beings of the universe and as a person of value, this has always been a gift that I hope we will use for the greater good. I'm grateful that I'm surrounded by people who help me to become the person I've always wanted to be. That is why the values that are taught shouldn't just be a thing of the past to create a society where people have good values and follow ethical norms in the future.

Everything will be tough but such as life is. A lot of things are difficult to understand while I'm going through them, but every step I've taken has been part of the path with the values that life inculcates in us. It's easy to get discouraged at times. In fact, with all the things that happen in life, it can be really easy to completely lose your way. But I choose to continue because life goes on and so must I. We must always remember the value of never letting a moment pass by and treasuring each day. Every struggle we face allows us to rediscover the very good in ourselves such as the values that we have.

This is what I hold dear that contributes to who I am now, today. I learned a lot of things in life which I will value as I continue getting through my dreams. Everything will fall into place so don't miss the joy along the way. We shouldn't wait until we're older to serve and make a difference. We can always start by paying forward the values we've learned because what we do impacts all, in some way.

I was brought up in this kind of environment that made me choose to continue no matter what and support the right cause. So many values that I won’t forget and moral integrity that I won’t regret in my lifetime. We can always begin with ourselves. We must treasure our worth as a person of value and choose the kind of person we always wanted to be. In everything that we do, it should always be done with passion, with courage, and ultimately with love. A person who will serve this country with purpose, excellence, and integrity.

Love, Jullea

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