25/11/2024
"The Cadet's Journey"
Gabriel Fernandez was an ordinary senior high school student in Manila. Living in the bustling heart of the Philippines, he navigated the daily chaos of jeepney rides, pop quizzes, and dreams bigger than his small barangay. But Gabriel wasn’t content with just getting good grades or preparing for college—he yearned for something more profound, something that would give his life a deeper sense of purpose.
His inspiration came from his grandfather, Lolo Pedro, a retired soldier who often shared stories of bravery, camaraderie, and sacrifice. Lolo Pedro would sit by their bamboo window, his medals glinting faintly in the afternoon light, as he recounted tales of battles fought in Mindanao. Gabriel grew up admiring his lolo, and he aspired to be like him: strong, disciplined, and devoted to serving his country.
One day, during a school assembly, a representative from the Reserved Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) visited their campus. The officer spoke passionately about leadership, patriotism, and the opportunities to make a difference in the community through service. As the officer's words echoed in the auditorium, Gabriel felt a spark ignite within him.
After the assembly, Gabriel approached his friends about joining ROTC, but their responses were mixed.
“ROTC? It’s just extra work and stress,” his best friend Anton shrugged.
“Yeah, who wants to wake up early every weekend for drills?” chimed in Bea, another classmate.
Gabriel hesitated. The training would indeed demand time, energy, and commitment—things he already juggled with academics and family responsibilities. Yet, deep down, he felt this was the path he wanted to take.
That evening, he brought it up during dinner. His parents exchanged cautious glances.
“Anak, are you sure about this?” his mother asked, concern evident in her voice. “It’s not just a hobby—it’s a serious commitment.”
“I know, Ma,” Gabriel replied earnestly. “I want to challenge myself and learn leadership skills. Besides, Lolo always said we should give back to our country.”
Lolo Pedro, who had been silently listening, finally spoke. “Gabriel, the path of service is not easy, but it’s rewarding. If you choose this, do it with all your heart.”
Encouraged by his lolo’s words, Gabriel enrolled in the ROTC program the following week. The first few months were grueling. The drills were tough, the early mornings were brutal, and the discipline required was unlike anything he had experienced. Yet, he pushed through, fueled by his desire to honor his grandfather and make a difference.
Over time, Gabriel began to thrive. He developed resilience, learned teamwork, and discovered leadership qualities he never knew he had. He took pride in the camaraderie he built with his fellow cadets, who came from diverse backgrounds but shared the same goal: to serve and protect.
One day, during a community outreach project organized by the ROTC, Gabriel found himself leading a team of cadets in distributing relief goods to typhoon victims. As he saw the gratitude in the eyes of those they helped, he realized the true impact of his choice.
Gabriel’s journey in ROTC wasn’t just about drills or marching under the scorching sun—it was about becoming part of something greater than himself. It taught him the value of discipline, service, and love for his country.
Years later, as Gabriel stood in his officer’s uniform, saluting his Lolo Pedro at a family gathering, his grandfather smiled with pride. “You’ve done well, apo. You’ve become the man I always knew you could be.”
In that moment, Gabriel knew he had found his purpose, and he was ready to take on whatever challenges the future held.
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Photo Courtesy: Kim Villanueza
