REACHING A HELPING HAND

If we’re all caught in a challenging world, where does the impulse to help others come from?
By: Jaysan L. Dela Cruz-Añon

Sunlight was descending through the rainforest of Binicalan, San Luis - a distant
part of Agusan del Sur. Some of us were newbies in the area loaded with goods for the
folks of the area with mud covering the wheels of our motorcycles and boots. We looked
dazed, tried to make out who were occupying the small village away from cities. The
village was quiet, but the loud cries of wishes for education was deafening. Even the
jaw dropping scenery was not able to hide the darkness felt by these unreached gens.
The site was too much to talk of. Surpassing rough terrains was an achievement
ordeal. They symbolized a progress toward a goal- to help the people in the community.
There were several ALS learners waiting for the team, and some were already in the
middle of the course to help carry the kits that once carried by the “habal-habal”
motorcycle.
The team was led by ACCORD, a non-government organization, and DepEd-
ALS personnel. As we arrived in the area, smiles from the folks served as their welcome
gesture. As we unpacked our goods for the community pantry, they cannot sustain the
excitement they felt, and it can be seen through their innocent eyes. A short program
preceded the activity, with a short message from our PSDI, Betcheba E. Prochina, and
our DALSC, Cerila S. Collantes. While Mahagsay ha Binagkusan jingle was played,
folks movements captured the essence of music. As the lyrics goes “Ali na, magpalista
na!. Mahagsay ha Binugkusan ku Paglistahanay. Ali na, kauban ang Alternative
Learning System kita magtinabangay” They danced with joy while having their lines for
Pinakamahagsay nga listahanay.
Looking at these folks, I came to ask myself “If we’re all caught in a challenging
world, where does the impulse to help others come from?” For me, it’s in dedication to
help others. It’s through our hearts where that impulse came from. It is when our
profession turns into passion.