Tattered Notebooks
When I was young, I found a notebook inside my brother's school bag. Although it was tattered, it
was a treasure to me. It contained notes, scribbles, and memories. Reading each page filled me with
excitement, so I shared this delight with my elementary classmates.
Thinking back, it taught me my passion for learning and sharing knowledge, so I sought ways to
shape this passion.
I strived for academic excellence. I found joy in the thought that the theorems and postulates that I
studied are made up of collections of tattered notebooks and crumpled drafts, organized and simplified in
one textbook to give enlightenment to young minds. However, learning also includes harsh truth, difficult
situations, and respective responsibilities. Many people may have turned their faces away, but I did not,
instead, I used it as a fuel for me to study more to find solutions to common problems that people may
encounter.
I shared my knowledge with others through writing. I joined the journalism club and became a
feature writer. We published campus articles, sharing updates with our fellow schoolmates about school
events, inspiring messages, and relevant topics. I also joined the journalism competition. Last year, I
attained first place in the science and technology writing category in division levels and moved to the
regional levels. However, I was eliminated in the regional levels. It was a fun experience as I was given the
chance to explore my capability to express my thoughts through writing.
I practiced leadership during my years in junior high school. I became a class president for two
academic years and joined the SSLG (Supreme Student Learners Government) for one academic year as a
grade level representative. We organized events and designed programs for the purpose of giving the
students equal opportunities in learning, encouraging them to enjoy the process of learning the subjects
offered in schools, and letting them have a fun and memorable school year. However, it was not easy.
Leaders can be subject to hatred, hurtful words, and oppositions. But choosing kindness over every other
course of action was my most beautiful response to them.
I intensified my spirituality through serving at our community church. I played the keyboard every
Sunday service and sang every melody of the worship songs. I learned to be hospitable to people of every
kind, became a role model for the youths, and taught the children of God’s love. However, I still sin in front
of God, I admit that I am not worthy of His favor. But through serving at church, I learned to have long
patience, love for the people, and love for God.
Going through a decade, these experiences have transformed me. They shaped my passion for
learning and imparting knowledge. I may no longer read the tattered notebooks anymore, but I am still
striving to make each chapter of my life memorable as I thread my path to college and adult life.
Although I am not perfect, I wish to be someone else's notebook. I wish to be discovered and
treasured despite the way I am tattered.