To me, one of life’s greatest pleasures is freedom or when we choose to be with our own private thoughts. Humanity advances because of freedom. Igor Sikorsky was right when he said: “The work of the individual still remains the spark that moves mankind ahead.” And so I relished having my own freedom to aspire for that which would give me great pleasure or fulfillment.

Conventional wisdom will tell us, success is the attainment of one’s goal. It is a condition when you get for yourself things you have been wanting to own – tangibles or status symbols. But the sermons we listened all our lives tell us that success is not the end but the means to realize that which will give real meaning to our existence – the inclination and capacity to serve the cause of humanity in whatever degree we are capable of doing.

In my book, success is not the acquisition or possession of material things but the internalization of life’s intangibles like the virtues of self-respect, compassion, humility, justice and a whole lot more. While they do not literally provide food on our table, they make our hearts expand with unique fulfillment.

When I passed the 2006 bar exams in 2007, I entertained the notion that I succeeded in life. To get this, I had to deal with difficulties, voluminous reading and a life of limited means. I had to forego certain luxuries and live a life of sacrifice. But always, the sermon, “BE GOOD, BE TRUE” kept ringing in my ears.

Six years after I became a lawyer came the opportunity to make my ultimate dream come true. To apply to become a judge was a struggle for me, considering the numerous qualifications, the rigorous interview and screening by a Council composed of justices, senator, congressman and other members and of course, the chances of getting appointed. In the process, I had to face several challenges. The justice who interviewed me did not even want me for MTC Bucay because I was born and raised here. Normally, the so-called shortlist from which the President would pick his choice consists only of 3 nominees. In the case of MTC-Bucay, the list was but a long one because we were 7 nominees on the list. I told myself, “I have no chance, but God, you are my backer.” With my faith in God, molded and strengthened by having been educated in a Catholic institution such as Fatima and with the unending support of my family, I was blessed to have been appointed. Wearing the robe may be a tough job, but with God’s guidance, I will gladly continue to serve and administer justice in my very own town.

More or less, I look at success that way. More or less, I look at success that way. Thank you Fatima. Thank you my fellow Fatimites!