Documentarist: Life Is A Mission And Not A Career

"Not until we find the reason why we serve, our life has no substance"

It’s been two decade when we were finally able to set up a Class Reunion for Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, BSED Batch ’96. It’s a day full of throwbacks and memories and non-stop story telling about failures and successes in life. At first, I wasn’t able to catch up and get into the core of the discussions as most of them are actively on the field of teaching. I was the only one who works in the local government setting, the one with just a short stint in teaching. As I listened to their individual life stories and struggles both personal and work related, I couldn’t help but wonder and ask myself: What if I pursued teaching as my career? Could I become one of them? Maybe become a Master Teacher, or a School Principal perhaps? Or just an ordinary, boring and nerdy classroom teacher who wears thick eyeglasses and below-the-knee, pencil-cut skirt uniform. I can’t picture myself wearing that fashion style! Hehehe I’m a jeans and shirt kind of person. I’m just thankful that I was able to get myself out of the old school concept that if you’re a teacher you should be in school! Maybe this principle is not applicable to all, especially to a goal-driven woman like me who doesn’t want a very routinely kind of work. I don’t think I have enough patience now in dealing with secondary students and their angst! We might possibly clash in some aspect. The type of student discipline nowadays is a big challenge to all practicing teachers. I admit that I have short tolerance for students’ behaviors and whims because I grew up in a family environment where eye-to-eye contact with my parents is enough to compose myself and behave. However, I honestly admire all my batch mates. Hat off to them, as they’re able to balance career and family life. I just hope that it is still not too late for me to realize the value and true essence of being a woman. So hold me God.

How about you, have you known already the purpose of your existence? Then what is your life’s mission?