No Boundaries...

As classes begin, I was surprised to see many AETAS at MQC. There are about 18 of them who are enrolled this semester. Majority of them took BS EDUCATION, and the rest are enrolled in other courses.

I had the chance to meet some of them during the orientation in our department (Education Department) and I admit that I am one of the students here in MQC who would not care about their presence at all. During the orientation each one was given the opportunity to introduce himself or herself. Many of us were laughing because they were so shy to go in front and say something about themselves. So, as we laughed at them, they laughed at themselves as well. Laughters filled the air and one of them introduced herself and she said that she wants to finish her studies so that she could improve their living. It was a very simple and common wish but it really strikes me because that is one of my dreams too. This is the very reason why we are all here in this institution.

I’ve realized that just like other students, AETAS also have their dreams to finish their studies and to improve their status in living. So this is the reason why they are studying hard, enjoying their right to education inspite the hardships, trials and challenges that they have to face. But more often than not, they are shy and they feel inferior.

As a family in this institution, we have to be sensitive to their needs, feelings, emotions and situations. The question is, how can we, the students help attend to their needs? The answer is simple...respect and accept them. Accept them for what they are and what culture they have. We must eradicate racial discrimination, we should not let them feel that we are superior and they are inferior to us. They should not feel that their race bound us apart. Let us not ignore their presence. We should at least be kind enough to wear a smile on our faces everytime we see them. That way, they will feel at ease and accepted. Respect them in all aspects of their individuality, specially their physical aspect because we are equal in the eyes of our Creator. If you want to be respected, then you must give respect that is due to them.

AETAS are in the campus for education because they believe that it would change their fate in life. Let us not pull them down by making boundaries instead, let us reach for their hands and help them attain their goals. In fact, when you know you did your part to be kind enough for them, at the end of the day, as you retire to bed, you will have this overwhelming feeling in your heart, a feeling of joy and fulfillment because you have treated them with NO BOUNDARIES.

leiyghn 13
mqc: 7-25-09