It's All Because of HIM [Valedictory Address]

Author's Note:

I believe I have served my purpose... And that is, to declare God's faithfulness to me. I pray that the people who heard my speech will be inspired to seek the Lord! Didn't mean to make you cry...

About two years ago, I gave up my heart’s desire of delivering this valedictory speech. With numerous competitive STI students within the region, I expected less to be chosen to speak before you. Nevertheless, conquering every obstacle, I must say, at this very moment, my utmost dream is coming true. This is not about fame and honor. Instead, I have one goal of declaring a very important message.

My puzzle-like life has required much faith in God. The rollercoaster adventure of leaving Quezon City for San Pablo, Laguna and going back to Quezon City five years after was intricately designed by Him. I would have graduated as high school valedictorian if only I did not transfer to another school. The honor might have paved my way to enter a prominent university. Indeed, King Solomon is right when he said, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) Studying at STI was His will.

Looking back, realities have opened my eyes about my family’s poverty since I was a kid. Nan’dyang tumira kami sa tabi ng riles ng tren; naglako ng sweetcorn, ng hamburger, ng ice cream stick at ng kung anu-ano pa; mangutang at tanggihang pautangin; at sa bawat araw ay problema kung saan kukuha ng kakainin. Walang regular na hanapbuhay si Papa, madalas at hanggang ngayon, karpintero siya. My parents have been so willing to give up their comfort just to provide for me and my brother. And this includes good education. Tulad ng sinasabi ng iba pang mga magulang, paulit-ulit ko ring narinig mula sa kanila yung, “Mag-aral kayo nang mabuti. ‘yan lang ang maipapamana namin sa inyo.” All of these triggered me to aim high and to excel in everything that I do.

Inspired with various small businesses that my family ventured into, I decided to pursue Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. But I had to avail a scholarship to get into college. And that is the opportunity STI has provided me. By God’s grace, I passed the scholarship exam.

My four years of journey at STI were never easy. I had to maintain high grades to keep my scholarship. Gaya ninyo, fellow graduates, nadanas ko ring maglamay para sa feasibility studies, mag-review just a few hours before the exam, at matensyon sa sabay-sabay na deadlines at activities. The knowledge and the experiences I have gained from this institution have prepared me for the real world. Sa STI, nahasa ang aking isip at pang-unawa. Sa STI ko natutunang magbalanse ng oras at maging responsableng tao. Indeed, STI has become an instrument in shaping my personality. I am proud to be an STIer!

Now, I can say, I was never alone throughout my journey. I have been blessed with loving people who did not grow tired of supporting me: my parents who through hard work, patience, and determination have sustained my needs and loved me unconditionally; my brother and sister-in-law who have kept believing in what I can do; my relatives who extended financial help so I can finish my studies; our professors who imparted their lives and knowledge to us, students; the people behind the STI’s scholarship program; my church mates and the Belayers who have acted as my prayer warriors; my special someone who inspired me and is keeping me more inspired each day; and, the BA801E of STI College Novaliches who has been with me through thick and thin for four years now.

In all of these, I praise the Lord. Who and where I am today is all because of Him. It is in His grace that I was given the privilege to finish this college race. It is the faithfulness of Him that has set me in this place in spite of my doubts and worries. It is by God’s strength and love that my trials were transformed into this triumph. Likewise, my fellow graduates, you are also rejoicing in the same victory because God has willed you to be. My high regard is with our parents or guardians who have become instruments of God’s provision.

Our school’s tagline says: Aim high with STI! Nagsisimula pawala lamang tayo sa ating tunay na lakbayin. Strive for excellence! Keep the faith!

It is the Lord’s will that this became possible. And to Jesus Christ, who is able to give us hope and good future as we keep on trusting Him, be all the glory, honor, and thanksgiving.

Congratulations and Good day!