Growing up

Table of Contents 1. What’s in a Name

14. Telling Tales

2. Personal Alphabet

15. Unfinished sentences

3. Likes/Dislikes List

16. Personal Symbol

4. Sensory Experience

17. Map of Life

5. Metamorphical Definitions

18. Synectics

6. A Quality Personality

19. A Day in the Life

7. Color Your World

20. These Words Belong to Me

8. Room sweet Room

21. In other Words

9. Personal Metaphors

22. Flash back

10. Extended Metephors

22. Rememerance of things Present

12. Symbolic recipe

23. As Time goes Bye-Bye

13. The Ultimate all Purpose excuse

24. My Own List of Lists

1

What’s in a Name?

Growing up, I had always knew what my name meant. I remember the first time I heard about how I was named. It’s a pretty interesting story, but in order to tell it, I have to start from the beginning.

My mother was born and raised on the island of Pulusuk. At that time, it was very rare for a teenager to leave their home for the purpose of furthering their education. For some reason, my mother wanted to do just that, but she did not have the funds to just get up and go. She literally had to work for it. She ended up getting a scholarship, and when she finally had enough money, she had decided to come to Guam, much to her parent's disapproval. With the help of her uncle, and a few others, her opportunity came.

She finally came to Guam when she was 19 years old. She started classes at the University of Guam, and mind you, she had very few relatives on Guam, but she had no way of contacting them. During her first semester, she stayed in the Dorms, but during her second semester, she was no longer able to stay in the dorms. One her friends

2

A- Adventuresome B -Boundless C-Carefree D- Determined E- Enchanting D- Daring E- Educated F- Fascinating G- Genuine H- Humble I-Incredible J- Jovial K- Kind-hearted L- Loyal M- Mature N- Neat O-Obedient P-Polite Q- Quiet R- Realistic S-Spontaneous T-Tactful U- Unique V- Vigilant W- Wishful X- Xeric Y- Youthful Z- Zany

Personal Alphabet

3

Likes and Dislikes

Likes

Dislikes

1.

Books

1.

Ham

1.

Music

1.

Green

1.

Dancing

1.

1.

Hot Cheetos 1.

1.

Brownies

1.

1.

Alone time

1.

Beans People

Uptight

Playing video games Snakes Stressful tasks

1.

Hanging out 1. with friends people

1.

Adventurou 1. s car rides

1.

Ignorant The color

pink Spontaneou 1.

Homework

Midnight

1.

Math

Hiking

1.

Good

1.

s Activities 1. swims 1.

1.

Surprises

Disrespectf ul behavior Being Tickled

4

Sensory Experience Beaches Stepping out of the car, the first thing I feel is the heat of the hot sun, satisfyingly warming the back of my neck. At the same time, I can feel the cool wind caressing my face, and blowing my hair in all sorts of directions. The sound of the waves crashing and the laughter of the joyous individuals fill my ears, and instantly beckons a feeling of happiness and content. Triggered from the juicy smell of amazing barbeque, my stomach starts to grumble.

5

Metaphorical Definitions 1. Confidence is that bold new haircut.

2. Wisdom is my Mother.

3. Weakness is a Brownie Sundae.

4. Luxury is a set of new books.

5. Horror is a Pop Quiz.

6. Surprise is leftover Pizza.

7. Fascination is a Dinosaur.

8. Happiness is a warm meal.

9. Freedom is a car.

10. Friendship is a Cat.

6

A Quality Personality Loneliness Loneliness always finds herself surrounded by many familiar faces. Faces with whom she knew growing up, and with whom she encountered in this journey called life. Everybody knows her, but not everybody embraces her. You can always find her though because she coexists with all the loving and caring people. She likes to sneak up on them when they least expect it. She feeds off of their wearisome hearts.

7

Color your World

8

Room Sweet Room My room is my personal oasis. It is a place of replenishment in times of drought. It serves as my refuge when things go wrong. I find sweet comfort between the sheets and it’s a place to unwind and relax. From the soft glow of my night lamp to the harsh rays of sunlight that light up my room, it is an all too familiar environment. Small knick knacks such as mismatched earrings, a book opened to the last page I read, and random pictures are scattered upon my wooden desk.

My bed is decorated simply by a patterned comforter with streaks of a soft grey, and a few pillows here and there. It may be simple, but this is the most majestic aspect of my room. The walls are a plain white, but they are anything but.

As you scan my walls, you would notice a few things. A To-Do list, a calendar, a wall clock and some more pictures. Still, in its simple nature, it is my oasis.

9

Personal Metaphors 1.Animal- Butterfly 2.Car- Jeep Cherokee 3.Article of clothing- Denim Overalls 4.Day of the week-Saturday 5.Food- Rice 6.Color- Dark Blue 7.Movie- Moana 8.. Fragrance- Warm Vanilla 9.Type of Building- Pyramid 10. Plant – Aloe Vera Plant 11. Musical Instrument- Flute 12. Geometric Shape- Triangle 13. Piece of Furniture- Bar Stool 14. Song- We are the World 15. Season of the Year- Summer 16. Television Character- Word Girl 17. Cartoon Character- Lizzie McGuire 18. Appliance- Refrigerator 19. Natural Phenomenon- Flood 20. Word- Savage

10

Extended Metaphors Butterfly I chose a butterfly because when I was younger, I was always shy, timid and insecure. After my 17 th birthday however, I was finally breaking out of that cocoon. I am not as shy anymore and I am more comfortable with my physical, and mental attributes.

Saturday I would be Saturday simply because it is a day when you can finally take a breather from the hard week. That’s the kind of person I am. Sometimes, I need times where I just have to be by myself and reel myself in.

Pyramid I would say that I am a pyramid because these types of structures have a strong base. As an individual, I was raised upon standards that I think would help me stay rooted in life.

Aloe Vera This plant represents who I am because of its healing properties. Everyone who is close to me knows that they can come to me whenever they need my help. I try my best to motivate people when they feel out of it, and it makes me happy when they are happy as well.

Refrigerator I would be a refrigerator because this is where all the food is stored. I have a tremendous love for food, so this appliance fits me.

11

Symbolic Recipe 2 cups of Perseverance 1 Tbsp. of Courage 1 1\2 Quart of Knowledge

12

The Ultimate All Purpose Excuse

Dear Mrs. Griffin, I know you discourage walking into class this late, but let me fill you in on what happened.

So this morning, as I was getting into my car to head to school, the strangest thing happened. I have no idea as to what I did but when I shifted the gear to drive, my car ended up levitating off the ground. For some odd reason, I was not able to control it. It was almost like the car had a mind of its own. I tried to escape, but I just couldn’t, so I just let it be.

Anyways, the car ended up taking me all the way to Japan. There, I had to fight the best Samurais in order to go on to my next destination. After a good but fair fight, I had won. Relieved, I thought I was going home, but the next thing I knew, I was in India. There, I had to perform in a Holi Festival, but guess what? I had no set routine, so I had to take time to learn something completely new. After a few hours, I competed the task. At last, I was on my way home, or so I thought. There was a thunderstorm in the area, so we had to make an emergency stop in Australia.

Still in routine, I had to help the aboriginals make a great speech about the rights of getting their land back. It was then I remembered that I had to get back home so I could attend your English Class! With freshly found motivation, I honed in on all the skills you have taught us in class. I ended up making a five page essay which touched the hearts of many people. They were so amazed at my writing skills that they wanted me to hurry back so I could learn more in your class.

When my car was finally grounded, it was then that I had a vision of the person who made my adventure possible. It was my past self, trying to look out for the future me. She told me that sometimes, I needed some kind of out of the ordinary adventure to help me stay motivated in school. So here I am, currently walking into you class at a very unbecoming time. Despite that, I am ready to learn! So, will you please excuse my tardiness?

13

Telling Tells

Everybody has gone through the tooth gap phase as a child.

Well I did too, and here’s a story about that time. It was at a church potluck and there I was, munching on an apple. One of my front tooth was loose, but that didn’t stop me from eating my apple. Every time, I bit into the fruit, I would casually feel for my tooth and it had been there all those times. I thought to myself, “It won’t come out because if it did, it would have already fallen out.” So I continued eating until the apple was all gone. This time, when I did feel for my tooth, it was gone! In a panic, I spit out the remaining apple in my mouth and started looking for my tooth.

On the verge of tears, I told my mom that I swallowed my tooth.

My evil sister overheard this and she lied to me that I had to get surgery now. This made me cry even more because I was so scared. Long story short, I ended up finding my tooth in the core of the apple. How that happened, I do not know. I’m just thankful that I did not have to get surgery.

14

Unfinished Sentences

1. I usually worry about whether or not I will be successful in the future, as an adult.

2. I feel angry when I see teenagers disrespecting adults or any other person in authority.

3. I’m moody when I do not get enough sleep or food.

4. I’m happiest when I am telling funny stories with people who make my life meaningful.

5. I feel confident right after I finish running or working out.

6. I feel frustrated when it seems like I can’t meet certain deadlines.

7. I feel depressed when it seems like everything I do just doesn’t seem good enough.

8. I am comfortable when I am snuggled up with a good book on a rainy day.

9. I feel nervous right before I do the Army Physical Fitness Test.

10. I feel sentimental when I am listening to old songs.

15

Personal Symbol One object that I hold dearly to my heart is my journal. On first sight, one might say it is just a simple composition notebook. To me however, it is a symbolic object. It means the world to me because when I do write, I spill my whole heart on the pages. Each page has an emotional attachment to it. Whether it be happiness, sadness, excitement, guilt, or just pure love. Each entry varies between days when I am at my absolute lowest, and when I feel like I’m on top of the world.

My journal symbolizes who I am as an individual. This is important because it allows me to realize my true character, which is the person I become when my whole world seems to be crumbling at my feet. This reminds me of all the life struggles I have overcome, and it helps me to remember that whatever hardships may come my way, I can overcome.

16

Map of Life

17

Mysterious Place The most mysterious place I have been is a jungle right by Two Lovers Point. It was a warm night, and a friend and I had been feeling adventurous. We discovered the dirt road by accident, and decided to find out where it ends. When it finally came to a clearing, we got out of the car. That was not the end though. There was a trail leading farther into the jungle, so again, we decided to find out where it ended. As we were walking through the woods, both of us were on our toes. Jumping at every small rustle that we heard. As we were walking the trail, every hair on the back of my neck was standing up. The cold wind would blow once in a while and it have us a very eerie feel.

18

Synectics 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

What is wiser a pen or a pencil?

A pencil is wiser because it has the ability to go back and correct its mistakes. Being wise is only mastered through experience, which also includes lessons learned from mistakes.

Which is easier to forgive? A Street or a sidewalk?

A street because it has seen many accidents. Through them, the street has learned compassion and empathy.

Which is smarter, a clock or a calendar?

A clock is smarter because all it needs are batteries and a set up. After this, it does its job on its own. A calendar however, needs someone to mark the days as done, and to change to the next month.

Which is more fearful, new or old?

New is more fearful because it is the unknown. We do know what it has and we tend to fear

unfamiliarity. Old is known

and certain, so there is nothing to fear.

Which is like a legend? A mirror or glass?

The mirror is more like a legend because it sees a reflection only during present times, but once the person walks away, it sees none, which makes it a legend. Glass on the other hand is transparent so it sees nothing.

Which is more useful, a friend or an enemy?

I believe an enemy is more useful because they make you want to prove them wrong, which in turn can motivate you.

Which is braver? An hour or year?

A year is braver because it endures all the bad for a longer time.

8.

Which is like a promise? Mathematics or Science?

Science is more like a promise because it involves theories that can be proven wrong, and sometimes, promises can be

broken.

Which has less charm? An autograph or a signature?

A signature has less charm because it is usually used during serious matters.

10. Which has more pride? An entrance or an exit?

An entrance has more pride because it has never seen a turned back.

9.

19

A Day in the Life It was 3 a.m. on an early summer morning. Layla had been anticipating this day for the past month. This was the day she was finally shipping off for basic training. With this realization, she shot out of bed and got into the shower. She was quick to be ready. As she got out of her room, she saw that her mom was already waiting for her. She said her last goodbyes, and was out the door. On her way out, she could not help but realize that she was leaving the comfort of her home, only to experience something completely unknown to her.

At about 4 a.m., Layla had finally arrived at the airport. As she was waiting for her time to be up, she looked around and took in all the familiar faces. In a few hours, she will be surrounded by people she has never met before. It was a bittersweet feeling. She was nervous and somewhat scared, but she would not let it be known. The time came closer, so she started saying her last goodbyes. As she hugged her mother one last time, she remembered exactly why she was doing this in the first place. With a newfound motivation, she made up her mind. Layla squared her shoulders, put on a brave like stature and got into the line. She was going to overcome the obstacles, no matter what it took.

20

These Words Belong to Me 1. Petrichor: The pleasant earthy smell after rain.

There is always something great that follows gloomy times.

2. Epiphany: A sudden revelation Clarity is something we need every once in a while.

3. Harbinger: Messenger with news of the future.

I am the type of person who needs a little encouragement from time to time.

4. Oblivion: The state of being unaware of what is going on around you.

I focus more eon myself, rather than worrying about the opinion of others.

5. Sunset: The decent of the sun below the horizon.

I am in love with the pure beauty of natural light.

6. Empathy The action of understanding.

That great feeling when you find someone who understands you.

7. Family: A group of people with common ancestry.

These people are my whole world.

8. Suspense: Mental uncertainty.

I find myself uncertain of what the future holds, and that is completely okay.

9. Love: Strong affection for someone or something.

Without it, the world would be a lifeless place.

10. God: Being, perfect in power, wisdom, and goodness who is worshipped as creator of the world.

Without him, nothing is impossible.

21

In Other Words

Rock bottom became the solid foundation upon which I built my life. ~J.K Rowlings If you get tired, learn to rest, not quite. ~ Banksy One of the keys to happiness is bad memories.

-Rita Mae Brown Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the

other person to

die.

-Buddha Feel the fear and do it anyways - Susan Jeffers If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. ~Maya Angelou Stop feeling sorry for yourself and you will be happy. ~Stephan Fry There is no friend as loyal as a book ~Ernest Hemmingway The problem with people is that they’re only human. ~Hobbes

Praise the bridge that carried you over ~

Flashback The day I would relive would be the day my Dad had a stroke. On this day, instead of assuming that he just wanted to be left alone for a while, I should have tried my best to open the door. I should have expected the worst, and jumped into the window so I can open the door.

Maybe if I did what my instincts first told me, he would not be in the current situation he is in now. This would be completely different today. My dad would still be working, and my mother would not have to quit her job. I would not be so 22

worried about making sure that I do not ask for too much. Had I gone with the doubts I had, my dad would still be able to talk, walk, shower himself, and so much more.

Instead of waiting for so long to call the ambulance, I would have forced my brother to call earlier! We should not have assumed that he was drunk, but we should have been smart enough to notice that he was not doing too well. I’m so very sorry Dad! If I could go back to this day just to fix everything, I would

23

Remembrance of Things Present Who I am now: On this particular day, you are a senior trying to make it through the last week of school. You are working hard to make ends meet and you most likely will. You are strong hearted and you never give up without trying. You are kind and loving.

What I enjoy and value: Today, you enjoy the simple things. Eating out with your friends, even though it is just the dollar menu. Why? Because you value them with a whole lot of heart. You enjoy spending time with my parents because they are at the upmost value in your life. You enjoy being in the National Guard because this is your future career.

What I do with my time: Time is of the upmost essence of senior year. If I am not spending it doing work, I am at home staying with my dad and met nephews and nieces. If I am not there, I am most likely working out with my recruiters, or finishing up some last minute paperwork. On the weekends, I usually got to the beach or run 5Ks. If not, then I am just at home sleeping.

Specifics I want to remember: I want to remember all the people who made it possible for me to be in the position I am today. My JROTC instructor 1SG Salas for pushing me to never fear the unknown. Major Q for giving me an example of what it means to never give up, and SFC Iglesias for reminding me that there is always room for improvement. I want to remember my best friends, and all the great memories we had together. Last but not least, I want to remember the struggles that I overcame since the beginning of the school year.

24

As Time Goes Bye-Bye 1. Learn how to play the guitar. ~ The sound of the guitar is just so soothing, and it would be nice to learn how to play.

2. Making it a habit to run. ~ Since this will be a major factor in my career, I might as well make it a lifestyle.

3. Bungee jumping ~ I am at that prime age where I can be a loose spirit.

4. Visit my island home. ~ I have never been to the island where my parents grew up but I do want to go to have a little taste of their past.

5. Ride the sling shot in Tumon. ~ I have lived on Guam my whole life, and I have yet to ride this.

6. Improve my dancing skills. ~ I like to dance, but I am not too sure if it is any good.

7. Take my parents out. ~ I am finally at the age where I earn some money for myself. I want to take my parents out to show them just how much they have pushed me to become successful.

25

My Own List of Lists People who have influenced me 1. Loreta Ham 2. Yigal and Rosie 3. 1SG Salas 4. Ayessa Fuentes 5. Drill Sergeant Williamson 6. Moana Yangetimai

4. No sugar 5. Running out of tissue 6. Nothing to eat Things I would like to learn how to do 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Places that make me happy 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Church Chattime Beach Movie Theater Church Footlocker

Things that have moved me 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Things in people which I like 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Humor Uniqueness Motivation Respectfulness Loyalty Personality

Church Teachings Life lessons Hard situations Disappointment Failure Accomplishments

Ideas that Intrigue me 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Things in people which I dislike 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Play the piano Manage money Speak another language Paint Singing Play football

Cockiness Liars Gossip Disrespect Quitters Harmful habits

Thoughts of animals Mechanics of the human body Surgeries Inner workings of an engine Aliens Marianas Trench

My Personal Favorites 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Things that worry me 1. Parents health 2. Future 3. School work

26

Apple products Jordan’s James Patterson World History Imagine Dragons Coconut Milk Tea

Cheer Yourself Up

              

Watch the sunset Blast music and just let loose Write in my journal while drinking tea Lay in bed and just daydream Listening to the waves crash Post throwback pictures on Instagram Rearrange and clean my room Watch funny Vines Take a long shower Learn a new mainstream dance Watch Mr. Kate Makeovers Go to a lookout with some friends EAT,EAT and EAT Go for a long slow run Delete old pictures, apps, and songs from my IPhone

27

Metamorphosis

I used to be fearful, but now I feel it and do it anyways.

I used to love shrimp, but now I am allergic to it.

I used to look at things in one perspective, now I look at it from different viewpoints.

I used to believe in revenge, but now I just succeed.

I used to enjoy having the house to myself, but now an empty home saddens me.

I used to take advantage of getting sleep now that is all I need.

I used to swallow my gum as a child, now I fear it is still present in my system.

I used to hate going to the doctor, but now I see the good in doing it.

I used to doubt myself but now, I know that I am capable of going beyond my limits.

28

Picture This

29

Look Who I Look Up To

Rosa Parks I look up to this woman because she started a whole reform movement. She was not fazed by the dangers that her actions would bring her. She not only stood up for herself, but for her whole race as well. As a person with a different cultural background, I definitely admire her strength.

Tiffany Haddish I look up to this actor and comedian because despite her rough past, she still manages to make people around her laugh. She grew up in foster care, and had to endure many obstacles. Even though she had a rough past, she did not let it alter the way her future would turn out. She is also a head strong women. She literally built her career from the ground up. I admire her strength and Vigilance.

30

Remembering the Child

31

One Medium Suitcase

If I were leaving my home forever, and could only use one medium suitcase, I would bring only the things that are most important to me. One would be a family picture. This would serve as a memory of all the happy times we spent together. The next thing I would pack is my parents’ favorite cologne or perfume. I do not know if this only happens to me, but when I am down, and I smell something familiar, it brings me comfort. My next item would be my Mom’s favorite cookbook. When I miss home, I could always count on Mom’s dishes to fix that problem. My journal would have to be something included in that suite case as well. Writing had always been my go to. If I had no one to talk about life with, my journal is always there. This is all I would bring in my medium suite case.

32

The Perfect Present

The prefect present for me would have to be clarity. I have this theory where if you know what you want, things would be easier. It is like that one goal that you try to reach throughout your whole life. With clarity, you would not stray off on a different path. It would be like a one way road to what you really want. No one can tell you otherwise if you have clarity. You will not be so unsure of what you have to do, because you already know what you want. So yes, clarity would be the perfect gift.

33

Memorable Event

The most memorable event that I attended would be the Joint- Services JTOTC Military Ball. This was a memorable event because this was the first time we decided to invite all the other branches instead of just the army branches. The fact that the George Washington Warrior Battalion hosted it, made it all the more better. I had a direct role inputting this together. My group and I worked hard to find sponsors for this event. WE put in a lot of time and effort in making sure this event would pull through.

In the end, our hard work was paid off. Everyone kept complimenting us on how organized and memorable this event was. It was the best night of my life to be quite honest!

34

How To

Be Productive

1. Set Goals Setting at least one small goal per day can lead to an entire productive week. Use simple, realistic, and measurable goals.

2. Use a Planner Planners keep all you tasks organized and it serves as a visual reminder. Use vibrant colors to draw attention to important tasks.

3. Take Breaks Do not overwhelm yourself. Allow your brain to recharge and focus. Remember, slow is fast and fast is smooth.

4. Change the environment It is easy to get distracted with a lot of clutter around you. For example, you’re doing your work then your phone dings. You are going to want to check what it was. Next thing you know, you’re on YouTube watching world star Vines.

5. Use the Five second rule.

When you are laying down on your bed and you remember that you have work to do, you have a hard time convincing yourself to get up. First, think of all the bad things that can happen if you don’t do it. Then think to yourself 5, 4,3,2,1 GO! Make sure to count backwards because if you do 1, 2,3,4,5, you’re going to end up counting all the other numbers.

Always Say Never 1. Never watch UNSANE ever again!

This movie was a complete waste of time and money. It was a poor quality movie and half the time, I was cringing at how bad their acting skills were.

2. Never dine in at Everyday Chinese Restraunt.

35

Our server that day was very rude. When she brought out the dishes, they were not even washed properly. When we pointed this out, she gave us an attitude. Of course they said goodbye to our money.

3. Never buy anything online.

If it isn’t a trusted site, don’t do it. You’ll get ripped off.

4. Never do the Spicy noodle challenge again!

When I did the challenge, my whole face was burning up. After this, I had a stomach ache, and the other thing that accompanies it.

36

Are You Hungry My favorite dish is Pepper Pork. This dish is usually cooked by my cousin, Moana Yangitemai, who acts like a mom and sister all in one. With this dish, the main ingredients are the Mamasita oyster sauce and the different colors of bell peppers. The sauce gives it the sweet and tangy taste. The peppers brings the dish to life by giving it a pop of color and an extra zing.

First, she cuts the steak into short strips. Then she dices the peppers into small cubes. When she cooks the steak, she does so until it reaches a light crown color. After this, she adds the oyster sauce and she lets the steak cook in the sauce for a few minutes. After this, it’s time to add the bell peppers. After adding a bit more seasoning, it’s finally ready!

37

Where I am from I am from old books, from family heirlooms and an old banjo. I am from the many belts used as disciplinary tools.

I am from the taro plants outside my house, the ripe papayas, sugarcanes and lemai trees.

I am from the old Laundromat, from the broken fence behind Mr. Allen’s house.

I am from the pickled mangoes that Emeren use to make, from Aunty Telly’s early morning laugh sessions and Uncle Bill’s hilarious dance moves.

I am from my Mom’s scary phrase of “If I come home to a messy house, you are going to get it!”

I am from pounded breadfruit and Fish soup with coconut milk.

I am from China Cabinets and old bookshelves.

38

Deck of 52 Outside Activities 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

Beach Activities

Slip n Slide Hide and seek Hopscotch Jump rope Pool party Water gun war Balloon Fight Splash you’re it Bubble party Miniature gulf Hula-hoops Rock in the middle Kickball Soccer Volleyball Football Frisbee

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Shark Attack Over under Sand castle Beach race Fast swimmers Ship Wreck Swimming Tanning Snorkeling Jet skis Parasailing Dolphin watching.

Banana Boat 13. Divin 14.

15.

Things to buy

39

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

Ice cream Corn dog Clothes Floater Snow comes Popsicles Sunscreen Umbrellas Slippers Snorkels Shovels Water guns Sun glasses Hats Beach Towels Beach Mats Beach chairs Pool noodles

The Examined Life

Best Things  Kind  Motivating  Creative  Helpful  Organized  Trustful  Honest  Loving  Family Oriented  Friendly  Strong hearted

Faults          

40

Can’t say no Gullible Trusting too fast Indecisive Opinionated Fearful Worrying too much Doubtful Procrastinator Scared of the unknown

Annual Report One Year Ago, I was an average teenager. Worrying only about how my grades are going, and wondering what I am going to do over the weekend. I was not allowed to go out because I did not have the money or the means of transport. I had to wait for my parents to get paid if I wanted to buy new things, and I always depended on them for everything. I was hesitant to go to the mall by myself and was scared to enjoy things without someone by my side. This was who I was one year ago.

Now I am still a teenager, but not just your average kind. I joined the Military so now I am more, mature than I was a year ago. Basic training changed my views of right and wrong. A few family situation matured me and forced me to be able to do everything by myself. Paying phone bills, car bills and even power or water, it’s the only way I could help my sickly parents. I learned that not everything comes as easily as you want it to be and that is an advantage that I have. I am more mature.

Ekphrasis

Visually Speaking

Lessons I learned after it was Too Late

There are many things that go on in life, but sometimes you could have changed it but you can’t because it’s too late now. Let me tell you some of my experiences. One thing that I learned a little too late was to never leave your important documents in the car. One time, I had left my birth certificate and passport in my brother’s car. The bad thing was, it somehow got stolen and I had to go through the trouble of making new ones. Another one is forgiving those who hurt you. One of my cousins and I got into a huge argument one time, and I was too prideful to be the first one to say sorry, but I was too late because she had moved off island. Last but not least, never eat something that you know you are allergic to. This may sound weird but I am allergic to shrimp. I used to love shrimp but one time, I ate it and found out that I was allergic to it. This one day, my family had shrimp for dinner, and I was getting tempted. Smelling the delicious aroma, I quickly snatched one up and ate it! To say the least, I ended up with an itchy tongue and swollen lips.

The Door When I walk out that door, I want…

To hang out with my friends. Since English is my last class of the day, we should all go to McDonalds for the dollar menu. Hold on, let me text them! (A few moments layer.) YESSS!! They’re down for it. After eating, we are going to the beach for some quality time because I know how stressed they are feeling. This is exactly what I am doing when I walk out this door!

When I walk out that door, I don’t want…

To get caught up in any kind of trouble. If I see a fight, walk away from it. If I small something, I will not look for where it is coming from. My main goal is to get home so that is what I shall do!

Advice to the Young

1. Appreciate your parents 2. Never take advantage of having enough time 3. Learn to be content with what you have 4. Befriend who you want 5. Don’t be afraid to try out for that one sport 6. Do not doubt your capabilities 7. Stay motivated 8. Never Give up 9. Do not lose focus on what you want 10. Learn to set goals 11. Do not be afraid to just LIVE 12. It is okay to suck at things 13. Opinions of others do not matter 14. Tell you sibling you love them 15. Never be afraid to be YOURSELF!

Who am I?

I am a friend, a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand. a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a cousin and much more. an aspiring dancer, singer musician and entertainer. a student, classmate, and peer.

I am a soldier, a comrade, a member of a team. responsible, accountable, and respectful. a motivator, a leader, my brother’s keeper. an example.

I am a coffee drinker, ice eater, pizza lover a swimmer, a volleyball player, a beach bum a spectator, a customer, a client.

Rewarding Experiences 1. Basic Training ~ This was rewarding because not many people make it through it, but I did!

2. Becoming a first time aunt. ~The first time for everything is always a rewarding experience.

3. Promoting to high school ~You only achieve this once in your lifetime.

4. Becoming a member of the Unarmed Team ~I gained lifelong friends who can call my family.

6. Volunteering at a homeless shelter ~Seeing the pure thankfulness in their eyes is a reward in itself.

7. Attending the Cancer care ball ~I knew by looking at the attendees, just what a fighter looks like.

8. Attending JCLC ~I gained leadership skills 9. Becoming a part of the main JROTC Staff ~ I gained a lot of knowledge.

10. Visiting my Dad’s island ~I had the opportunities to meet family members.

Valuable Lessons 1. Don’t do things just to fit in. ~You were born one in a million.

2. Underestimating things will get you nowhere ~You never know until you try.

3. If the shoe does not fit, do not wear it ~Stop assuming things.

4. Fear can be taken as an advantage ~Use it to strengthen yourself.

5. Never forget about yourself ~Your opinions matter 6. Be kind, no matter what happens ~ You do not want to regret things.

7. Learn from your mistakes ~It will only help you get better 8. Invest time on yourself ~You can’t better yourself if you don’t take time to evaluate yourself.

9. Forgive easily ~ The time spent being bitter can be used in other areas.

10. be grateful ~Not everyone can enjoy the things you can.

Futures

In my romantic future, I would be 28 with a successful life. I live in Italy, and I have three beautiful children. I have a doctor’s degree in Criminal Justice and I met my husband in the Police force. We live in a beautiful Greek style home with a huge backyard. Life is great.

Realistically, I still live on Guam and I am still in the National Guard. I can’t complain about life. It’s hard, but I still manage to make ends meet. I am not married but I gained a child through adoption. I still have time to spend time with my friends and family. Life is simple.

Based off of the first two paragraphs, the differences are easily made out. In my romantic life, everything is picture perfect. In reality however, there are a few bumps in the road, but I still live a good life.