From high school onwards, my family and I moved from one house to another as we struggled financially. We helped support our family by selling ice candy, and when I was in high school, I also sold adobong mani to earn extra money for my personal needs. We had to work hard and make the most of what we had. These experiences taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. I promised myself that I would continue working hard so that I could improve our family's situation and provide a better life for myself and my loved ones.
Looking back, I can say that I have fulfilled the goals I set for myself. I was able to build a house, buy a car, and transfer my father's remains to a private cemetery. I was also able to take my children to the United Kingdom. These accomplishments mean a great deal to me because they represent how far I have come from the hardships we experienced growing up.
As the saying goes, “Kung may tiyaga, may nilaga.” Through hard work, determination, and perseverance, I was able to overcome the challenges of my past and provide a better life for myself and my family.