Being humble matters

I believe in the power of prayer. It is because this is my only weapon to fight trials and difficulties, especially to thank my victories in life.

One day, I realized that the most fundamental quest in my life is to answer “Who am I?”

I belonged to the poorest of the poor families. Though my parents reached grade three level only, I have grown in respect, obedience, understanding, patience, humility, generosity, and trust in the Lord.

I took my studies in elementary school in Argao, Cebu and concluded it in Baganga, Davao Oriental. I graduated in the secondary school at the age of 15 in Argao, Cebu, then in Holy Cross of Davao College in Davao City. I finished my Master of Arts in Theology in the same school, in 2011. I also graduated Master of Education at SPAMAST in Digos, City.

My teaching started after I got my PRC license in 2005. I was employed in HCDC, PWC, Archdiocese of Davao’s DC Herald (Digos Bureau Chief), and IIREF Vicariate School of Theology.

My experiences in these private institutions inculcated in me solid faith and values formation. But, I realized that public schools need my aptitude, skills and expertise as a teacher. Thus, I applied in the School Division Office of the Department of Education, Davao del Sur in 2009.

I appreciate DepEd for providing “Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao” subject in school. Our public schools need more teachers with expertise in handling ESP. Sadly, many times the ESP subject seems to be given less priority.

I underwent the hiring process through demonstration teaching, panel interview and English proficiency examination for four consecutive years. While waiting, I volunteered to conduct classes in Hagonoy National High School during weekends. I drive taxi in Davao City on weekdays. I facilitate retreat and recollection Friday nights.

Once I substituted a teacher in Alberto Olarte Sr. National High School in Sarangani, Davao del Sur, hoping that my teaching career be permanent, but my expectation wasn’t fulfilled. I wasn’t even remunerated for one year. But, I never lost hope.

In 2013, I was finally appointed as a permanent teacher in Gov. Nonito D. Llanos Sr. National High School in Balasiao, Kiblawan, Davao del Sur where I opened a Campus Ministry office, the only office in the entire Schools Division of Davao del Sur.

Then, there was a promotion waiting. So, I humbly waited for 45 working days for the approval of my documents from the Regional Director of the Civil Service Commission. Today, I am serving in Padada National High School.

Developing a healthy self-concept must be shown by the way a teacher talks, listens, behaves, appreciates life, and develops every student in the community.

As Saint Mother Teresa, “Let us touch the dying, the poor, the lonely, and the unwanted according to the graces we have received and let us not be ashamed to do the humble work.” Thank you Jesus. Happy Teachers Day! (Ed Sara)