"FATHER, I HAVE A SURPRISE FOR YOU!" (anecdote)

 “FATHER, I HAVE A SURPRISE FOR YOU!”

(anecdote)

    Grade 4, I doubted myself. I have lots of insecurities because there was someone who bullied my existence; that person told me that I do not deserve the life I have, that I am a freak because of my background. I cried the moment I heard the hearsay about my story. I went home weeping, and my father noticed and asked me, "What seems to be the problem, kid?” I told him what I have gone thru, all the negative thoughts of others about me. He uttered, “I want you to be strong and prove them that you are worthy.” That day I knew in myself that I have a father who will guide and support me.

    After that moment, I feel empowered by my father. I did my absolute best in school; I joined activities that will help me to grow as a person. I also proved myself in academics. He also introduced me to leadership, he wanted me to be the SPG President in my school, and I did because of his support. Every time that I had an achievement, my father would tend to give me 20 pesos as a reward, and I kissed and hugged him as a response.

    Grade 6, I challenged myself to step up my game and ace the class. I studied so much to the point that I was able to join all the extra-curricular activities and maintained my rank as the top in class. Through ups and downs in my life, my father was always there for me to cheer me up with his encouraging words.

    Last week of sixth grade, it was the time to announce all the awardees of our batch. I did not feel good at that moment, I felt weak, and I know that something was bothering me. But my emotions went up when my adviser declared that I was the valedictorian, and I was so delighted because all my hardships paid off. I rapidly went home and eagerly went to look for my father. I screamed, "Father, I have a surprise for you!" I found it very strange that my father was not around, so I asked my older sister, and she told me, “Father is in the hospital, diagnosed with mild-stroke and diabetes.” My energy flopped, I was heartbroken, and I prayed a lot for his fast recovery.

    Graduation day, the moment I stepped on the stage and wore all the medals as a sign of my success, I feel blessed and grateful to have my father as my shield. He was my safeguard and my inspiration. I was called by the master of ceremonies for my graduation speech, as I held the microphone and deliver my speech, I was happy to thanked all my classmates and teachers for their important roles to help me build my confidence. In the last part of my talk, I stopped. I cannot help myself to cry, I was like a crying baby, I thanked my family, most especially my father who was always there beside me, but unfortunately that significant moment in my life, he was not able to attend due to his condition.

    I went home with a bunch of medals, hugged, and kissed my father. I told him, “Father, I did it, thank you!” and he uttered, “I am so proud of you son."

-sebastiancrotilsfjc