Miracles do Happen

I teach in an island. Due to the difficulties of daily transportation and the unusual
weather condition, some advises me to apply for a school transfer. Recently, I discovered
Gods purpose for sending me in this isolated barangay. I was an average student then in
college and even now as a graduate student. I am always an underdog in the class.
I work hard for my pupils because I believe that the simple thing I do for them and an
extra time I dedicate for the less privileged ones, could make a difference in their lives. It
also helps them to improve their academic standing. I was also lucky to have supportive
school principal who is behind me up in this noble deed. They are the reason of my
promotion as Master Teacher I after seven years. I also had the chance to work as childcare
teacher in Singapore. I do believe that they are Gods instruments who touched and
changed my life the way I did with my pupils.
My professional career highlighted year 2013, when Tabaco City Division endorsed
me to join the search for Ten Outstanding Teachers of Albay (TOTAL). It is an annual
competition among elementary and secondary school teachers. The first challenge given by
the Technical Working Group (TWG) was the preparation of portfolio. I was so thankful that
my school principal, Mr. Borbor, , Mrs. Aragon my colleague who took a leave of absence
and my former school principal Mr. Bordeos who welcomed us in his home so that we could
submit the required documents in due time. There were other people who gave their
support through testimonials.
Three university professors observed my class, took a picture of my classroom and
asked some questions to my pupils. Easier said than the actual scenario. You could tell how
long every second could be when you are being examined.
Two weeks after the visit, I received a congratulatory letter and at the same time an
invitation to attend the Finalists Meeting. I was happy to qualify in the final round but Im
anticipating for a more mind-blowing challenges.
During the finalists meeting, we were scheduled for a panel interview and a demo
teaching. The night before the final competition, I prayed hard and asked the Lords
guidance. I pleaded Him to speak for me if I am out of words and that He would grant me an
active mind and a peaceful heart to face the challenges of the next day. I may not be a
scholarly classroom teacher but I have an omniscient God. This was the very thought that
serves as my shield and armour against my timid other self. I was then having another
thought of not joining in the last stage of the competition.
The sunshine of the following day was a good sign. I tried to relax then whispered a
short prayer for our safe trip and we are getting ready for the one-hour drive going to
Legazpi City, the place of competition. The topic assigned to me was not one of the lessons I
tried in my class. I paused for a while and silently called upon the Lord. Soon enough, I
started writing the lesson plan and before the time runs out, I was ready with my teaching
materials. I was grateful because the pupils I dealt were smart. The lesson ran smoothly in
30 minutes then we are done. We were able to beat the time. I was not penalized for any
time extension. One challenge down, one more to go through.
In the afternoon, I faced the four members of the panel for the interview. It was
composed of a lawyer, a psychiatrist, and officers from Jaycees Club and SEAMEO
INNOTECH. The tension I felt was so intense that it dried my mouth. I closed my eyes for a
second or two and prayed for Gods intercession. When I opened my eyes I smiled and
pronounced simple greetings. They offered me a drink and the questions started to come
one after the other. In less than an hour, we all said our thanks and as soon as I was out of
the interview room I was so thankful I could almost cry that it was finally over. It was indeed
a day of tension and too much anticipation.
On October 5, 2013, I was one of the TOTAL awardees who received cash prize,
trophy, certificate and medal. I was so grateful to people who supported me and to God
Almighty. Miracles do happen.
I shared this without any intension of boasting but to serve as booster for every
reader. God gave me an unexpected gift. He may give you two or more depending on your
faith level. Level up in Gods love. Happy Christmas!

MARLOU D. BORLASA
Master Teacher I
Sagurong Elemenetary School
San Miguel Island Tabaco City