Last September 7, I had my interview with the PERAA panel of judges. This is after being nominated by the university as nominee for its Top Outstanding Member and getting into the final five of the Teaching Category A. I have been offered to join and submit the requirements since 2004 but only took this year seriously after having most of my papers prepared from past activities. Just yesterday, the call came in and I got into the final three (3). My friend/colleague in the office was also included in the non-teaching category. I am blessed and at the same time feel amazed by the opportunity given as a finalist. For all its worth, I am honored and grateful. I am also happy for my loved ones, friends, peers and colleagues who stand proud behind and beside me.
Yet, you know what? Its funny but deep inside I am not "that all" excited to be in the position. I am thankful of course. Perhaps, it is because as Mau I am not oriented towards achieving high things but only do what I can give. I still feel that I have not done the best that I could possibly offer. Hmm, I think my calling is yet to be discovered, deciphered, and translated to me. 
Have a nice day..
This link shows the previous winners in the PERAA TOPM. http://www.peraa.org/topmpage.htm
Sometimes, you are torn between different things you must do. People around you expect things to be in their order, and to have directions. As a person, you can only do enough with the time given to you. Many times, if we are face with a challenge, we procrastinate and hope it will go away knowing it will not. More often than that, you have two choices to decide. You pause and look at the two choices. One can be an obligation and the other one a pleasure for self interests. You begin to think of many reasons why you cannot do your obligation and do the other one until it hits you. You decide where you are needed the most? If we can only see the simple reasons why we are here in this world, then we will not have headaches or sickness trying to decide which direction we will take in the every day tasks we face. You are busy for a reason. Learn to value it.
