By: Frances Elaine S. Araga Fourth Year –Pythagoras

Shaping an Exceptional Annean Identity
Yes, we are all Anneans here, but before anything else, let me ask each one of you a simple question. As an Annean, how far do you know yourself? This inquisition has left many people on a crucial case. However, we have this concept called exceptional identity which can help us visualize ourselves more. Too often we tell ourselves we aren’t smart enough or attractive enough or talented enough to pursue our dreams. We buy into what other people say about us, or we put restrictions on ourselves. The confusion lies in here. How can we, as an Annean, make our contribution? How can we shape our exceptional identity to be a productive citizen of our own country?
As we live each day of our lives and through influence of Ste. Anne, we develop a greater emotional, physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being. We also make positive life choices and been a productive members of our community. Through her we taught to work all together in a Christ-centered environment through sharing catholic values, beliefs, personal strength, talents and many gifts to others. We work hard for each of our own responsibilities. Most of us believe that every one of us has a mission that makes us want to influence the world for the better. We’re like missionaries, volunteers, writers and artist. We all help spread the messages of God even if in these days that there are people who are confused of what the message of God actually is. It is important that we Anneans are giving priorities in making our faith come alive. We should think of a new ways to continue the positive journey of our lives for all the people.
All that was said are describing some of our exceptional Identities not only as an Annean but also good citizens of our country. But there is one more thing that we should know... In shaping an exceptional Annean identity we would most likely talk about leadership or being a role model. I remember when I first enter this school, when my perspective was only to make new friends and to study. But later on I’ve learned that being an Annean, I should have the ability to serve my fellow schoolmates. This institution has molded in me the notable characteristics of a person in service. As a part of the Student council I was able to know and understand the facts of life.
Our nation has been failed by many people whom we put into the public office because they are slaves of their own greediness and selfishness. Serving for them is comparable to abuse, lying, cheating, stealing, and exploitation. How can I, as an Annean, be an embodiment of this lofty idea? How can I shape my own identity to be a contributing member of the society in this present time, so that I can help in the reconstruction of this messy life towards a better future, a better life for my generation and those that will come after me? I need not to be an elected official to do my part. I can be an ordinary, law abiding student and yet do what my school requires of me. However, before I can think of what I can do for my school, I must learn how to train my sight in the here and now. I am a proud student of this school. And I am aware of the limitations that my present location in life places on me.
Shaping an exceptional identity is one of the important tasks of a good role model. You can’t inspire people to rise above themselves and reach higher level if you yourself are stuck in the muck of vice and avarice. Everyone should work as one. This is what we all want. To work each day to plant hope and grow happiness, not only for ourselves, but for others too. The work that we may do may be simple, modest or may seem insignificant at first, but it is powerful and long lasting in its impact. We will be able to make difference and change lives.
As God’s children, we are all beautiful and precious, worth more than all the diamonds in the world. You and I are perfectly suited to be who we are meant to be. Even still, it should always be our goal to become an even better person by shaping our own exceptional identity and stretch our boundaries by dreaming big. Adjustments are necessary along the way because life isn’t always rosy, but it is always worth living. I’m here to tell you that no matter what you are and no matter what your assets may be, as long as you’re breathing and as long as you have your own identity, you have a contribution to make. I cannot put a hand on your shoulder to reassure you, but I can speak from the heart. To wish for change will change nothing. To make the decision to take action right now will change everything! On and on, I can go. But the bottom line in this enterprise is that, we can have a contribution to make in the future if we start shaping our exceptional identities today!
With that, we may all have a lively week ahead of us. Thank you and God bless.