WORDS come easy when I am in dire need of them.
But at this moment, words elude me.
***
I do not know exactly how many words per minute I can type in fast speed, or if I am lost in long cogitation, staring blankly at the monitor and hardly touching the keyboard.
Words are a friend to a struggling campus writer and would-be journalist like me. I have learned how to befriend them and even look for them in the most unlikely places.
Words help me to articulate and to make permanent my innermost thoughts and ideals.
Words are my instrument to inform and to reform. They are my weapons in dealing with all kinds of people and in handling all sorts of situation.
Words are kind enough to fill my almost empty mind as I finish a full-length article way past the deadline or a Journalism class requirement to be submitted in less than 30 minutes.
And with words, I am ending these adventurous discoveries and bittersweet experiences that have molded my principles and improved my craft.
But words are not enough.
***
Words of gratitude.
My two years’ stay in the Varsitarian were the best and the worst of times of my Thomasian life. I thanked the people who became my hard-earned and forever friends.
I will never forget the occasional tensions, nerve-wracking arguments, and endless bashing sessions with you all.
Most important of all, we have stuck together in searching and standing for the truth.
Do not worry, we will all be successful in our careers for I have asked blessings from our staunch ally and great idol.
To the University officials and other personalities whom we often hounded when we needed statements and opinions on the latest University issue, even if they were out of town or on their most deserved break, thank you for bearing with us. It was just all work, nothing else.
To my advisers, thank you for teaching us the essence of being in the Varsitarian.
I did learn well in the publications, most especially on how to be budget-conscious, and cleanliness observant. I also discovered the anthropologist in me as I learned to decipher Sumerian code-like editing marks in proofs during overnights when we struggled to put the issue to bed.
To the friends I am leaving in the Varsitarian, we are not leaving you alone. It is just that we need space and time. Always keep in touch.
***
To my family, sorry if at times I always misunderstood your care and concern, but I always listened well and put to heart all your love for me. However, I could not promise that I would be home early or if I would be coming home at all after a day’s (and night’s) work. Just give me a duplicate key so that I wouuld not disturb your sound sleep.
Thank you to those who influenced my character, developed my (so-called) talent, and served as my inspiration amid the troubles and difficulties I encountered and surpassed. You would still be my inspiration as I stepped out of the University and find the door of opportunities toward a more fruitful life.
***
Words never fail me, but in moments like this, words elude me. Like the time when I was at the magnificent tower of the grand UST Main Building. I was wordless in describing the beautiful landscapes and distant horizons before my very eyes.
Indeed, words are not enough. But if woven together in the best way possible, then everything will be understood.
I hope I am able to say it all.
