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DPA (Straight from the Camp) Unleashed
A year ago, I've seen my first article entitled “Life After May 10” on print in a May 25-27 issue of this paper. Though I resumed writing another article only few months later, I still consider that article as my first step in letting the public know of the things that stuck in my head. It was a dare to submit that article. And, I never imagine that it turned out better than I expected. Miracles are unexpected. And, today, I have the reason to celebrate. This is my first anniversary with the TNT!!! Now, I understand that the said “post-election” article did not only mean of my perspective of the possible impact of election results to people's lives; but, it also signaled the beginning of my career as a writer. Yes, I now consider myself not only as a student, an employee, a husband, etc… but also as a writer. Having 20 articles (with this one as the 21 st ) on print, I can fairly call myself as such. And, I don't need anyone for a confirmation with it. Writing my perspectives on particular issue did not cross my mind before. Though I maintained a diary of my reflections on the Gospels when I was in college, I did not buy the idea of getting my compositions published in newspapers. I didn't have the nerve to place myself in the hot seat of critics and criticisms. Not until I got acquainted with people who saw and had given me a doze of courage with their sincere encouragement to unleash a writer in me. A total of 21 articles, including this present one, in a year may be too little an achievement for a writer, so to speak. Truly, that number is too insignificant. It is not the number of articles I wrote that counts but how writing these articles made in me. And, this is what I have discovered after re-reading all those. As I plunged my mind in recollection of the past 365 days, one of the significant scenarios that made me proud of myself were those times I was composing my articles. The first five articles I wrote had given me real hard mental blows. It was really extremely difficult the first time. Composing the first line was a turmoil. Making it longer enough was devastating. And, if I had a way to start the theme with, I was also lost in making a conclusion. It still holds true as I was writing the rest of my articles. Even this one you read at the moment is no exception with the mind blowing experience I always have in crafting my ideas with concrete words. These experiences almost made me think that I couldn't really make it. But, unexpectedly, I did. Victoriously!!! The rest of the articles came a bit easy though. I finished writing most them shortly before the deadline. Except for a two or three articles that failed to beat the clock. So, they were rather published on Tuesday instead of my preferred Friday edition. Why Friday, you may ask. It started when I received text messages from readers who asked all the “why's” if I got no articles on a Friday issue. Yes, my contact number printed at the end of my article does become a thermometer how my piece provokes, irritates, and drives the fury out of my readers. Being a neophyte in this field, I haughtily received compliments as much as I humbly endured mouth-lashing reactions from readers. And, I don't see a difference. All that I know is that text messages and letters of any nature regarding my published articles were and will be my joys while I bravely invade the camp to give you deeply provoking analysis of anything behind the scene! ***** My thanks to all the texters, readers, and friends who supported me the past year. I wont name in particular kay basi malipatan ko ang iban kag magsunggod. ***** For comments and suggestions, e-mail me at rogatepnp@yahoo.com or text 09193161190. |
