Graduation morning
For lessons learned and habits formed
For knowledge gained and yet to be earned
For people met and friends made
For second chances and priorities re-weighed
For UP KaPiTas, my organization-slash-family
For the department I’ll always identify myself with: Philosophy
For professors who are in love with what they do
And for those outstanding people who helped me get through
For challenges accepted which added to this college life color
For principles made firm as I’ve been exposed to rigor
For inevitable contemplations that gave experience depth
For things I don’t yet have words for, I’ll have this University to thank
For my family, although not too happy, with my not graduating with honors
I may not show it but you’re always part of my every decision
Finally, for the One who made all these a possibility
This day, as with all other days, is for Your glory.
Yearbook write-up by Pao
“Mia”, I replied.
The members of UP Kapitas have just asked me, then a tense, wide-eyed applicant, whom of my co-apps I didn’t really get along with. I told them that it was this weird, scrawny little girl, with the goofy glasses, and a reputation for having quite an attitude. And with that answer, it was the beginning of a great friendship that lasted for the entirety of my college years, and up till now. Lots of people are scared or intimidated by her; but really, I don’t get it. Yes, she’s not your typical girl. She doesn’t really care about all things cute, pink and fluffy, and prefers to retreat to the sanctuary of her iPod and headphones when surrounded by people she really doesn’t know — that, or she really just doesn’t want to talk to you. But once you get the opportunity to break down that wall, Mia’s just great.
I’ll show you how.
She loves food like she’s been starving for three months. Give her some rice and some sinigang, and you’re good to go. If you’re out of luck, a trip to the stand that serves Milo should suffice. Here comes the rather tricky part. You’ve got to think. Talk to her about random stuff; tell her one of your stories, and then she’ll tell you what she thinks of it. If you’re lucky, then she’ll begin to tell you one of hers. She likes thinkers — admires them, actually. Debate with her about anything and everything. Present her an argument that goes against and contrary to her beliefs, and support it with rational, well-founded arguments. She’ll hate you for a moment, but she’ll admire you for your ability to be cognitive, positivistic, and basically to be such a smart-ass.
And then, you’re in.
You’ll find that she likes Kinder Bueno, and that she sings along to Dashboard Confessional and Paramore, while trying not to cry. You’ll find that she’ll keep your secrets, and that she’ll trust you with hers. You’ll find out that she can give the best damn advice on any of your problems, even if you’re just sweating the small stuff, or you’re going through some really tough times. You’ll find out that she really can’t hold her alcohol all that well. You’ll find out that she can keep your head on straight, and that she’ll never let you become too emotional about anything, or anyone, because it’s her mantra to think. You’ll find out that she’ll be there when you need someone to talk to, or if you’re just hungry and want to try out this new resto nearby. You’ll find out how great, and I mean this in the most honest way possible, how one of a kind she is as a person, and that you’re glad you endeavored to break her wall down.
Even if she’s not going to law school [yet] — yes, I’m still bitter about it — I wish her all the best as she sets out in the real world after four great college years.
Mia, I’ll be in the law library, reading and highlighting my cases and commentaries, if you ever need to talk, or just want to go out and eat at that new Chinese resto that serves unlimited rice.
— Paolo Magno
What about me do you not know? Was seriously surprised at how lengthy and detailed this write-up turned out. Was even more surprised at how long this frendship has been (and will be!). I never really thought about it. For the longest time, I have been viewing us as two people who have the power to blackmail each other but don’t because we’re awesome like that. Hahahaha! On a serious note… Wait. I don’t want a serious note. =)) I propose we remain the chillest buddies until we get sick of our favorite bands and get tired of pigging out.
And, oh. For taking the time to write this despite your hectic Malcolm-boy’s-schedule, and for everything else, thanks man..=)
You said that you could let it go, and I wouldn’t catch you hung up on somebody that you used to know.
Sino kayang walang magawa nung panahong yun..=))
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