nuwanda ⚯ ͛ :
Last year, it was my first time. My very first DSPC. As the winners for Feature Writing - English were called one by one, my ego and confidence only shrunk by every surname. By the 3rd name, I lost hope. No way I could make it in the top 3. By the 4th name, my heart shattered. I knew that being a starter wouldn't lead me top 1. By the 5th name, I froze. I sprinted to my coach—not to seek comfort after loss, but to guide her to the stage. I was 1st. I was overjoyed, and I already anticipated the RSPC. It was as exciting and fun as the DSPC was. I knew I had no chances in the big leagues, but I chose to write anyways—most of my opponents were very much older than me. It was awarding day, and when the fifth spot was called, I didn't lose hope anymore. What do I lose if I never had it in the first place? But when the 4th Placer was called, I froze again. That same rush of excitement and a multitude of surprise that I felt in the DSPC. I was fourth. No way. It was my first time? I went on to be the 1st runner-up for Most Outstanding Campus Journalist in our Division the next year. And once again, I clinched 1st in the division. It was less surprising, but equally, if not more, significant than the first time. My family believed in me. My friends cheered for me. My coach taught me with every knowledge she could bestow on me. They had high hopes—maybe because I was better now. More mature, a more exquisite vernacular, and I truly grasped the technicalities in Feature Writing. But when all five names were called and all was done—I froze again. Not that feeling of triumph anymore, but of immense grief. I didn't really except to place—yet it still hurt. Maybe because I had hoped too much. But that was months ago, and it has only made me strive more. I'm competing again early January next year—with a full heart and a determined spirit. I know well to not hope much, but I'll try to be composed. Losing only made me stronger. And that heavy silence made my mind and voice louder. It was never about losing, it was about realizing and acknowledging my imperfection and cultivating the skills I already possess. But until then, I am a proud journalist and a bearer of truth.
2025-12-14 15:18:29