To the thousands of young men and women donning caps and gowns, graduation feels like the end of a long, arduous trek. And rightly so—it is an ending. An end to sleepless nights wrestling with modules, an end to surviving on instant noodles and pure willpower, and an end to the academic rituals that have defined much of their youth.

But let me be clear: this is not the finish line. It is only a bend in the road.

Graduation is not the culmination of struggle. In many ways, it is only the gateway to a new kind of hardship—one that doesn’t come with syllabi, deadlines, or teacher’s guidance. It comes wrapped in the uncertainties of job hunting, the pressure of becoming financially independent, and the quiet doubt of whether you’re truly ready for life’s next chapter.

Yet, this next chapter is the most exhilarating one. It is here where the strength forged in college—your resilience, your values, your passions—are tested not in theory but in the furnace of reality.

The diploma does not guarantee ease. It guarantees readiness. Readiness to face a world where your character matters more than your grades. Where persistence trumps prestige. Where who you are means more than what title follows your name.

Let’s not reduce graduation to a ceremonial march across a stage. Let’s see it as a launch. Because the real measure of your education is not how high your grades climbed, but how far your compassion reaches, how deeply your integrity stands, and how bravely you respond to the world’s problems.

Because in truth, a student never truly stops struggling. And that’s a beautiful thing—because growth never stops either.

THAT gospel episode about Christ’s disciples experiencing a terrible tempest at sea while Christ was simply sleeping in one corner of the boat (cfr. Mt 8,23-27) should remind us that while we cannot help but be filled with fear and worries when all kinds of life’s troubles would assail us, we should never lose the hope that Christ will always come to our aid one way or another.

We should try to recover our hope and serenity so that we can be in a better condition to tackle the many challenges of our life. We have to train ourselves to have this kind of reaction, knowing that trials and all kinds of difficulties are unavoidable in our life. Let’s never forget what Christ once said: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Jn 16,33)

In all our affairs and situations in life, we should always go to God to ask for his help and guidance, and to trust his ways and his providence, even if the outcome of our prayers and petitions appears unanswered, if not, contradicted.

This should be the attitude to have. It’s an attitude that can only indicate our unconditional faith and love for God who is always in control of things, and at the same time can also leave us in peace and joy even at the worst of the possibilities.

Remember the Book of Ecclesiastes where it says that for everything there is a season, “a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal…” But everything is under God’s control, and even if we are capable of eternity, we just the same “cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.” (3,1ff) We just have to trust him.

We have to follow the example of the many characters in the gospel who, feeling helpless in the many predicaments they were in, earnestly rushed to Christ for some succor. They went to him unafraid and unashamed and they got what they wanted.

It may happen that we may not get what we want. And in this, we should not be too surprised or too worried. What is sure is that God always listens and gives us what is best for us.

If our request is granted, it’s because it is good for us. We should however be careful that the favor should not spoil us but should rather make us more thankful and faithful to him.
If our request is not granted, it could be because what we asked is actually not good for us. Examples of this kind of cases are aplenty, and many would later on realize how lucky they were that what they asked for was not granted.

In this life, we should just have to develop a sportsman’s attitude, since life is like a game. Yes, life is like a game, because we set out to pursue a goal, we have to follow certain rules, we are given some means, tools and instruments, we train and are primed to win and do our best, but defeats can always come, and yet, we just have to move on.

We need a sporting spirit because life’s true failure can come only when we choose not to have hope.

Impeached Vice President Sara Z. Duterte expressed her irritation on an advertisement on a television reportedly at the airport as she was on her way to visit Melbourne, Australia on June 22, 2025, said the San Juanico bridge was not a tourist spot. She asked the crowd, “Do you even know how long the San Juanico Bridge is? 2.6 kilometers. I was so irritated. How can a 2.6-kilometer bridge be considered a tourist “I was extremely irritated with one part of the ad. It said the San Juanico Bridge in Tacloban is a tourist spot,” she noted. The first statement regarding the length of the San Juanico Bridge as 2.6 kilometers is clearly a too long guess as it is more than the recorded length of 2.16 kilometers.

She then compared San Juanico Bridge to a bridge in China, which she claimed connects China to Zengcheng to Macau to Hongkong which she claimed to be 264 kilometers long, suggesting that such infrastructure deserves to be called a “modern tourist attraction. A verification on the map of bare that the said route does not show any bridge connecting the places she mentioned. One may travel to the said places first travel from mainland China to Zengcheng, likely by land, then take another transportation from Zengcheng to Macau, and finally travel from Macau to Hong Kong through the most common route between Macau and Hong Kong is by ferry. There is no such bridge along the route she mentioned, this is her second too long guess.

While there is no 264-kilometer bridge in China, she was likely referring to the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, which is a 164.8 kilometers long viaduct on the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway. It is the longest bridge in the world since its designation by Guinness World Record in 2011. For her to claim that that the bridge is 264 kilometers long appears as her third too long guess at 264 kilometers as it is when in reality it is only 164.8 kilometers.

The statements of the impeached vice president drew a strong from Tingog Partylist Representative Jude Acidre who pointed out that the bridge is “more than just a tourist attraction,” but also a vital part of the Eastern Visayas’ identity. “It’s more than just an iconic photo spot. It’s more than a ribbon of steel and concrete stretching across the San Juanico Strait,” the lawmaker said through his social media account on June 23 in retort to the impeached vice president’s statement questioning the bridge’s promotion as a tourist site. Other citizens also reacted to the impeached vice president who statements appear as mere too long guess.
comments to alellema@yahoo.com

Given today’s interconnectedness, building a global professional network is no longer optional, but crucial. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur looking to expand your business into new markets or a young professional who is seeking global career opportunities, building a strong international network can unlock unprecedented opportunities for growth and success. This article will explore strategies for effectively expanding your network across different markets and cultures.

Understanding the Nuances of Global Networking

Global networking differs significantly from domestic networking. It requires a deeper understanding of cultural nuances, communication styles, and business etiquette. What works in one country might be completely inappropriate in another. Therefore, research is crucial. Before reaching out to potential contacts in a new market, take the time to understand the local business culture. This includes researching common greetings, appropriate communication channels (email, LinkedIn, in-person meetings), and the preferred style of interaction (formal or informal).

Leveraging Online Platforms

LinkedIn and similar platforms are essential for global networking. These tools transcend geographical limitations, connecting professionals worldwide, fostering collaboration and expanding career opportunities regardless of location. Optimize your LinkedIn profile to highlight your international experience and skills, using keywords relevant to your target markets. Actively engage with content, participate in relevant groups, and join discussions to increase your visibility and build relationships.

Attending International Conferences and Events

Industry conferences and trade shows offer excellent opportunities to meet professionals from diverse backgrounds. These events provide a platform for networking, learning about new trends, and building relationships with potential collaborators and clients. When attending such events, be prepared to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange business cards, and follow up with new contacts promptly.

Utilizing Your Existing Network

Your existing network, even if primarily domestic, can be a powerful resource for expanding your reach internationally. Reach out to your contacts and inquire about their international connections. They may be able to introduce you to individuals in your target markets, providing valuable inroads into new networks.

Building Relationships Based on Mutual Respect and Trust

Building strong relationships is the cornerstone of effective networking, regardless of location. Prioritize authentic relationships built on mutual respect and trust. These strong connections, fostered through genuine interactions, are far more valuable than superficial networking. Show genuine interest in your contacts’ work and experiences, and be prepared to offer value in return. Active listening and thoughtful engagement are crucial for building lasting relationships.

Embracing Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity is paramount in global networking. Be mindful of cultural differences in communication styles, business etiquette, and social norms. Treat each individual uniquely, respecting their individuality. Avoid stereotypes and generalizations based on nationality or background; cultivate understanding through direct interaction. Show respect for diverse perspectives and be open to learning from others.

Utilizing Language Skills

While not always essential, possessing language skills relevant to your target markets can significantly enhance your networking efforts. Even basic proficiency in a foreign language can demonstrate your commitment and cultural sensitivity, making you a more attractive contact.

Maintaining Consistent Engagement

Building a global network is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Maintain consistent engagement with your contacts, even if you haven’t had recent interactions. Nurture your network. Stay connected by sharing relevant content, engaging in online discussions, and periodically checking in with your contacts to maintain strong, mutually beneficial relationships.

Measuring Your Success

Track your networking efforts and measure your success. Keep a record of your contacts, interactions, and the outcomes of your networking activities. This will help you identify what strategies are working best and refine your approach over time.

Conclusion

Building a global network requires effort, but the rewards are substantial. Overcoming geographical barriers opens doors to diverse perspectives, collaborations, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. By leveraging online platforms, attending international events, utilizing your existing network, and embracing cultural sensitivity, you can build a strong global network that opens doors to new opportunities and accelerates your professional growth. Remember that building genuine relationships based on mutual respect and trust is the key to long-term success in global networking. Active participation and progress monitoring are key to successful global networking. Regularly engage with your network, track your interactions and achievements, and adapt your strategy as needed to optimize your efforts and reach your international goals.
————–
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!