I still have to meet a person who does not aspire to have a better life and future. Everyday, we see people trooping and forming a beeline at lotto outlets, hoping to win the jackpot which will instantly make a big difference in their lives. There are thousands qucing to join game shows and talent competitions that offer grand prizes and chances to achieve fame and fortune overnight! “Hope springs eternal” it is said, {mosimage} especially among us Filipinos who believes in luck. In a way, this attitude contributes to our being resilient, able to laugh even in times of crisis and misfortune, allowing us to ride over difficult times.  Hoping alone though, will not cause dreams to become real. This has to be coupled with hard work and the drive to succeed, with tons of prayers! It is lamentable however, to see some wasting time in unproductive activities. Instead of lifting themselves and their families from the clutches of poverty, they push themselves deeper into the mire of failure and despair; blaming about everyone, except themselves. They easily give up, not realizing that opportunities that come may have slipped by the backdoor, simply because they failed to seize the chance as they were simply “busy doing nothing”.  In life’s game, winners keep themselves busy by making themselves better each time, to make a difference. To him there are no menial jobs, only menial attitudes. He is aware that success does not come easy and it comes with a price: hard work and determination. In Filipino, it is “Sipag at Tiyaga” to Make a Difference.   I am confident, that with the training and education earned at Lyceum of Subic Bay, you are now armed with skills, knowledge and the right attitude, that would Make the Difference. I urge all Lyceans therefore, particularly the members of the 2011 Graduating Class, to seize the moment, a window of opportunity opens. Be prepared, perceptive and persistent, because sometimes the opportunity comes in the form of misfortune and you give up that easily. Use the temporary defeat instead, to fire you more, to achieve the dream that eluded you for a time. How many battles have been won by losers who did not give up trying? It is because they persisted with passion, without which life could have been empty. Face your fears to help you grow in strength, courage and confidence. Believe in yourself and capitalize on your strengths, but be open to correct your weaknesses. Most of all, be humble and do not put on line your integrity for any material wealth! These are the armors that will enable you to ride over the challenges that may come on the way to the realization of your dreams and ambitions!

My congratulations to all of you! Continue to Make a Difference!