We just can’t have it all at once

Whenever people asked me why I opted for Journalism as my course, I often gave them a smile and said, “Well, it just happened.” In fact, back in high school, I was totally clueless of what course should I take. All my best friends were certain to try Nursing since it’s the easiest passage abroad. Yes, that would earn me lots of money. However, I knew that I wouldn’t be able to realize my full potential if I jumped into that bandwagon. So, where would I be now? I asked.

Still clueless of what would I do with my life, I decided to take Business Administration instead. During my stint as a BA student, I got a chance to examine what I wanted and which skills of mine I enjoyed using the most. Since I don’t memorize, and I can’t do math, I realized that BA was not the right course for me. The learning process circled around the four corners of our room. I didn’t like it. I got bored at it. Everything was just a routine.

I have lots of ideas that I wanted to put into writing. I desired to be heard. Though, it took me a while before I realized all these, still I didn’t have regrets.

I willingly shifted to Journalism in second semester of 2005. Much to my dismay, some of my manipulative relatives didn’t approve my decision. Some of them even commented that Journalism was a low-key profession and that it would get me nowhere. “What made you so sure that you’re going to work in the media when you graduate? A lot of communication students usually end up in call centers and you know that. Competition would be tough for you my dear. You’re not a Lasalista unlike your cousin Wilma.” These words, they hit me where it hurts. Yes, maybe they’re right. COMPETITION WOULD BE HARD, and I wouldn’t be rich through writing. But I just don’t care. It’s time for me to do what I wanted so shut up and back off. (Wooh, I wish I said that).

Just a thought, is finding a career, doing what your heart’s desire and earning money have to be mutually exclusive? Does it really have to be that way? I mean, a person can have the most wonderful job in the world, a good reputation, and heaps of salary to possess a luxurious life, but still lives unhappily. On the contrary, he can be perfectly happy doing what he wants, but his salary is still not enough to support a family.

I don’t know what will happen to me when I graduate. I might start as a freelance writer, a production assistant in a television network, an English tutor, a “tambay” for months because of a job mismatch, or perhaps end up in a call center in order to get sufficient income. No matter what happens, wherever life takes me, I’ll make sure that I will never stop learning, and I will never forget the ideals that have been instilled in me as a would-be Journalist. Besides, I still believe that I can have it all. I just can’t have it all at once. Oprah is that you? Haha.

Under the Blooming Tree

Sakura Tree

Let me just share to you something before I proceed to our topic. Back in high school, I had a classmate who was very fanatical of Japanese culture. Her name was April. April was so infatuated to it that she would actually prefer to sing “Kimigayo” (Japan’s national anthem) than “Lupang Hinirang” during flag ceremony.

I didn’t like her at first for she was so loud and mean, but we eventually became friends. I think it’s inevitable because we were also seatmates. Being a passionate “feeling Japanese girl” that she was, April was fond of discussing Animès, Mangas, Japanese artists, pop stars, and everything about Japan with me. Our conversation revolved around it so I was amazed about how she described Japan which according to her, was rich and indeed beautiful.

April used to sing Dimensions of Love, a soundtrack from the hit animè “Tenchi Muyo.” I think it was originally sung by Kuroda Kayoko. This song was about a girl who was patiently waiting for her one true love on springtime – a season, when Sakura trees (Cherry Blossoms) bloom.

When the cherry blossom starts to bloom
Meet me here in my lonely room
We’ll find a passion filled fantasy
And this time you will stay with me

When our class decided to choose date sketch as our topic for midterm, I was actually worried that I might not be able to write anything since I haven’t found him. I mean, being a certified member of NBSB (No Boyfriend since Birth), I honestly don’t have an idea of how a romantic date was like. I’m not really a mushy person, and you know that.

“Your name is Girlie, but you’re acting like a dude.” This comment, which I’ve heard from people, hundreds of times now, can perfectly explain why I considered this activity as a challenge. And yes, now is the time for me to unleash my romantic side. Oh, come on.

After chewing on a bone on what my dream date would be like, I’ve finally decided where to go (Much thanks to April). So, if I were to date someone, I would probably take him to Yoshinoyama (Mount Yoshino) in Yoshino Town, Japan, which is famous for “Hanami” (Cherry Blossom Viewing).

Yoshinoyama

Besides an estimated 30,000 Sakura trees, the area also offers a rich history and several temples and shrines. Cherry trees can be found all along the slope of the mountain, but the upper area is most appropriate for a rest or a picnic under the blooming trees.  So, If I were there with him, I would love to have a stroll in the park and set a picnic after. For me it would be great for we would have time to know each other better. We would just talk about stuffs,  eat great food, laugh, and goof around. You know,  I really want this date to happen. Since I haven’t met him,this date remains a dream. If this would become a reality, I might as well sing “Dimensions of Love” with my  special someone, under the cherry trees full of pink blossoms.

Soon, with the start of spring
We’ll know our hearts are changing
Leave the hurt behind
I’ll be true and kind
Be the best you’ll ever find