this is the essay that i wrote for the search of the sjdcian of the year 2010. i chose to share it with you guys, for if ever you encounter and undergo same situations that i had, do remember that everything happens for a reason.

Being a student leader is a humbling but a great opportunity. It is a blessing by itself, and with everything that you have done, you are doing and that you will do-so are you. May you be enlightened. i love you guys.

Be a blessing- Serve. Inspire. Impact Lives.

“Being a student leader is a selfless job; it doesn’t give you anything in return, why bother to run?”

This is the question I faced upon deciding to run for a position again in the Student Central Board. It was a moment of realization for me. It was like my mind was telling me to stop and start reliving my simple life as a student- that I may retrieve things I had forgone; but my heart was telling me to dedicate what time and resources I have left for others. For no definite grounds, I chose to follow my heart.

After all I have been through I finally appreciated my cause for choosing to follow my heart, henceforth, I pose these two reasons: First, I opt to believe that I lead best when I serve. I sought to make a difference in the lives of my fellow students, impart positive relationships built on trust, and make them realize the value of genuine integrity and of service. These aspirations had grabbed strong hold of me and wouldn’t let me go. I knew that these would only come to happen if I would inspire others to share this vision, empower them to act and encourage their hearts to do the same. Since I was in the position to make people listen, I dreamt aloud and gradually worked my way to show them the spirit of service. Everyday has been a struggle-to be sensible, and to not disappoint. It was one tough road, I had failed many times and it hasn’t escaped the eyes of those watching, but for those people whose lives I had touched, I believe it was all worth the sacrifice; the choice to give up “self” for “others”.

Being nominated for SJDcian of the year is a great honour for me. However, I know that the grant of this recognition isn’t about me. Hence, my second cause, I professed that I’ll do things for the greater glory of God. I refused to play small-for playing small does not serve the world. Marianne Williamson quoted, “We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us …our presence automatically liberates others”. With all the opportunities and blessings that I have received for the past few years, I believe that it is only apposite that I give back all to one being whom I owe all of these. This isn’t about me, all this is about Him.

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© Marla Espiritu, 2011. All rights reserved.