The Philippine Bar examination comes once every year. I found this year's time of bar exams special, because it was my first time to actually participate in Bar operations. Thanks to the opportunity that was given to me by my law school. As a first year student of Law, this experience bolstered my morale, and boosted my eagerness to succeed.
DAY I
It was a sunny Saturday. A perfect day to feel the heat, and brush off the negativity. My first day participating in the Bar Operations. I, with my law schoolmates, waited outside the Law Building for the Bar examinees to come out. We were quiet at first, but as soon as the examinees started to walk out of the building, we cheered and shouted our hearts out. With energy so strong, it gave me goosebumps. Several signboards were flashed, saying “Good luck”. I waved my personal signboard with a caricature, which I drew, saying “You are meant to be a lawyer! FIGHT!” And as I saw the examinees walk into the bus, I watched them with respect and gladness thinking that they are the ones who made it in law school. I saw their faces and told myself that these are the warriors who did not give up. Their eyes are set on a bigger goal, and they know that the battle is not yet over. And so, as the bus took off, with my spirit filled, I smiled and whispered to myself “fight.”
DAY II
It was another sunny Saturday. We had the chance to serve the bar candidates who were staying in the school-sponsored hotel. I found joy in simple acts such as preparing the mini backpacks of the Bar candidates, knowing that it will be of help to the examinees. I enjoyed delivering their ordered foods door to door in their hotel rooms with my classmates. And as I saw them open their doors, it inspired me to see their friendly faces. Despite the intensifying aura which the bar exam brought, they still found strength to show their smiles, and said thank you. This show of gratitude made me understand that they appreciated the simple help that we were offering. Because of that, carrying the gallons of water did not burden me at all, knowing that it was for the bar exam takers who were already carrying so much heavier weight-- the heavy burden of doubt and fear.
DAY III
One Sunday, after our make up class in a major subject, my classmates and I went to UST where the bar exam was being held this year. As I sat on the back seat of the car, I had the opportunity to observe my classmates who were sitting at the passenger seat right in front of me. Someone was sleeping, maybe sleepless and tired, some were discussing law related subjects, some were just staring at the window, as I sat there silently in the middle of Espana's traffic and busy street, I realized that I still have to walk a very long road before I become a lawyer. Suddenly, while waiting for the red light to turn green, the famous quote popped in my mind, “I'm not saying it is going to be easy. I'm saying it is going to be worth it.”
When we arrived at the destination, we were instructed by the student leaders to head to our respective areas. I volunteered in holding the banner of my school. In the street of Padre Noval, the name of my school was proudly waved and raised high. It became clearer to me that someday, if God allows, it will be my turn to represent my law school. And hopefully, my school will also be proud of me, as we are proud of our bar candidates.
Contrary to the opinion that the bar takers don't really need groups giving them support, assistance, and services because they prefer to be left alone to focus on their review, or to relax, I strongly believe otherwise. They need the support and service of others, even if they don't actually say it. One smile from someone can save another from the darkness of fear. One pat on the back can be a source of strength to go on and fight. Simple words of encouragement can make the doubtful a believer. Simple acts of support can make a person feel that there are people behind them who are believing in them, and reminding them that they are not alone in their battles in life. And so if there is a chance to make people feel better, to make them stronger, or to help them lift their heads up, then we must always grab that opportunity.
In the Bar Operations, I believe that our simple acts of support and help gave a positive impact, no matter how small or big, to the bar takers. And I can surely say that I would do it again, without thinking twice, next year. And when the time comes for me to represent my law school, I would be glad and thankful to accept help from others. It would be so sweet seeing my fellow aspiring lawyers chanting and cheering “FIGHT!” Because I strongly believe that the power of helping and supporting each other is like fuel added to the fire to keep it burning strongly, and blazing brightly, casting away the shadows of doubt and fear.
