My Life's Journey

                  The year 1995 was a great start for every youth pilgrim from different parts of the world 

gathered to worship together and to celebrate the world youth day that took place from January 10-15 in Manila presided over by Pope John Paul II, exactly nine months and a week before an innocent baby girl was to be born. On the same year, month of October, day 21^st a Filipino boxer brought glory to the Philippines as he claimed the title of WBF Welterweight Champion--another triumph for Pinoys; another crown that gave hope and smiles. And while this was all happening, few hours ago at exactly one in the morning, a baby girl was heard crying in a labor room at Quirino Memorial Hospital along the city of Quezon, Project 4. A couple named 

Elisa Abenojar Fabia and Lorenzo Aventurado Bautista were rejoicing as they hold on to their baby’s embrace. An overflowing joy you can see through as these parents’ eyes glint while looking at her. By the way, I am that couples’ happiness—their first daughter. I, Lorie Mae Fabia Bautista to whom they put their love, time and effort from that moment on.
                   I am the apple of my mom and dad’s eyes for two years until I had my sister. My parents used to dress us alike, like ‘twins’. And so it became a normal scenario to be seen like that. Thankfully, God gave me a talent on dancing and mom discovered it sooner as I grow up. Mom got to be an accountant but lost the chance of taking the board exam since she met dad. My dad used to drive jeepneys where we get our source of income while mom takes good care of us.

I started going to school when I was four years old and became a medallist with an add-on ribbons ‘best in math and in writing’. Our life went very smoothly but one day our parents decided to part their own ways. Hence, we moved to my grandma’s place in the streets of Poblacion Zone 2, town of San Quntin, in Pangasinan. I continued studying at San Quintin Central Elementary School on Kinder II level. Every school year, I received an award as an honor student and was chosen as part of classroom officers. Eventually, I decided to run for the position of secretary on Supreme Student Council. On my second grade, I had the opportunity to be a mathematics contestant as a representative of our school. Back then, I was not so sure if I really am qualified, had been I given such logico-mathematical intelligence. I tried; I won. I have the gift in numbers. Towards the end of my elementary days, I was a consistent math wizard winner. By the end of my sixth grade, I made my family prouder as a first place on an interschool history competition. Whereas in writing, I was an editorial writer of our newspaper. I graduated being the first honorable mention of our class; a journalist and a student that best excel in math.

       In high school, I went to Divine Grace Montessori of Tayug. DGMHS is known for its excellence and effective foundation upon preparing and molding students as we go in college. During my first year, I had the most terrible experience travelling back and forth I almost quit since I usually vomit due to headache.
After a few months, I adopted just so well and found my place as a learner there. I have got to show and improve more on my academics. I kept up being a math contender and a science challenger as well. It was a privilege to represent my school. I could not be more proud to my Alma Mater. Then August, 2011 came. I took the UPCAT and passed. As a child, I used to dream wearing accountant attire, having my own office, serving clients and managing finances. I imagined myself studying in University of the Philippines. Suddenly, one day I woke up and my imagination came true. To be a UP student is to see a bright future ahead of me. Undecided what career I will pursue, I bet, the only option is UP or never. I took the risk—to be an ‘Iskolar ng Bayan para sa Bayan’ in Los Baños, Laguna.

        Year 2012, month of June was the most exciting yet scary beginning of my college life. I had to admit—I adjusted for so long. For the most part, I missed my family. I entered UP with the degree of BS Math. I did not expect math has to be so hard that it made me cry. Yet, I love math more than ever. I hardly walked out of my comfort zone. When I did, I was beyond happy. The freedom I never felt flows like a stream to me now. Indeed, a sign that I am part of the UP community. Every semester is a roller coaster full of fun. After three semesters, I finally got the chance to shift to BS Civil Engineering. Currently being challenged with my new course, this is where I am supposed to be from the very beginning, that I know of.

                              I treasure them the most.
My mom and four siblings to whom I get my strength from.

    Time passed by so fast. It never occurred to me I have no father looking after us. The last moment I remembered seeing him was back when I was a grade 2 student and the situation was horrible I always wanted to escape from it. Yet, my mom never showed weakness in her. She is my wonder woman, my strength and my best friend. She keeps on reminding me of
the things I should do and avoid. I was
and will always be thankful for raising me up to stand on my own. Teaching me how to be independent when she went abroad, at first I barely understand why I should be but now, it is clear to me. As for where I am and who I am now, grace is at work.

    Just this year, 23rd of February was the day I became a Christian. It was magical to receive a gift such salvation and to acknowledge Him as my Savior. Putting God in my life is the ultimate decision I ever made I would never regret and reset. Regularly, I attend a small group and youth services along with my Christian friends. I was able to join a leadership camp in our church Victory last October. The camp empowered us and we had an amazing experience as we seek and know Him. Truly, we cannot find God unless we know we need God. One thing will remain, His love never fails and His grace never ends; keeping no records of our sins. Whatever happens, I will continue walking, fighting and living for His purpose. If there is one verse in the bible loudly speaks in this season of my life that would be no other than John 1:16.

Now, I am a fine lady ready to face the world.