francinebarcena

[francinebarcena]

TO THE NEXT CHAPTER

There are unspoken feelings, ideas, and thoughts in our pretty heads that we cannot form into words that would explain what we want to express and convey. Luckily for me, I discovered writing as my tool to express myself, which helps me combine the letters in the alphabet to form a message I want to deliver. Writing becomes a habit until I reach this stage, this moment, and this phase in my life wherein I will take my writing into a battle I never thought I could survive. I'm a grade 12 graduating student; this is my last shot before I enroll in college. This may be my first time joining DSPC, but I'm willing to take a risk. 

Joining the Division Schools Press Conference is a stepping stone in my writing journey. It started when our subject teacher, Ma'am Cristy Embat, messaged me because of my answer in her exam in the essay part, wherein the topic is all about saying goodbye to someone. She said that I did well despite having an hour to finish the exam, yet I managed to formulate a piece that touched her heart. Ma'am Cristy then suddenly asked me if I would like to join journalism and be one of the representatives of our school in the upcoming DSPC in the event of feature writing in English. I was delighted at the news, so I immediately agreed and have been training since then. It was a rough road to go through, but smooth at the same time. On the event day, I was all giddy because of the overwhelming feelings I felt that day. I was excited but nervous. Seeing my co-writers from different schools made me feel like I was inside a box full of gods and goddesses because of the aura and presence they gave. I was worried, but I assured myself that it was ok; it was now or never. Later that day, as we entered our respective rooms to compete, I unexpectedly felt confident and brave, so it was not that hard for me to write my piece. I should be happy about it, but after the competition, I felt like I could not win it. I have this guts with me that whenever I feel nervous in a competition, I always win. However, when I feel too confident and not nervous at all, I always end up having no place. So I did not expect anything at all at the award ceremony, and I was right. I was not included in the qualifiers for RSPC, but fortunately, I was not disappointed in myself. Rather, I feel proud and happy that the world gave me this opportunity because it is an honor to be one of the representatives for DSPC. I am lucky enough to be trusted by our school, so whether I win or lose, I am happy.

DSPC is a stepping stone in my writing journey that I will never forget as it brings me to the next chapter of my journey. The experience was great, the people I am with are amazing, and the competition itself is fun. I may not be able to win it, but for me, I achieved something great.