August 2, 2005

• I was really put in my place this weekend. It was amazing to be among such strong individuals, but oh what a wrecking yard it was for my esteem and self-worth.

  
  

  I was a counselor for the Filipino American Youth Leadership Conference, which this year was held at McClellan Business Park. Because of circumstances surrounding the recruitment of counselors, I really didn't know what to expect from the group. They came out fierce though. The participants really connected with them, a skill that I feel I lack. Whether it was because of their dynamic personality, their sense of humor, or their abundance of empathy, all the other counselors were definitely favorites of the participants. For some it is more obvious than others. Glenda is lovable and empathetic, not to mention all-empowering. Her partner, Alan, Krystle's "Spoken Word God," entertained and amazed with his productions and raw energy. Then Robski, the always clever, always entertaining, communications major from Sac State, who is an improv king in his own right and his partner, Rebecca, were the self-proclaimed second strongest counselor pair. Rouel, aka Buddha, and Jermel brought their affable and personable auras to the mix as well as the every energetic Arcy and her experienced partner in empowerment, Ivan. My partner as well, Jen, is such a creative friendly force that one cannot help but enjoy her company.

  
  

  Then there was me. I felt like I was lacking energy this weekend. A case of shyness came over me. There were such strong personalities among the counselors and the presenters, they overshadowed any charm or skills I could ever possess. At least, it felt that way. My only hope is that Jen and I were able to connect with at least one participant. Alan mentioned that all we have to show is that we care. I hope that message came across.

  
  

  Do other people find it hard to motivate themselves to do something when it doesn't feel appreciated? How does Stella get her groove back?

  
  

  I got a nice little gift at work today. A penguin. I guess I talked about "March of the Penguins" so much that someone cared to notice. Cool stuff, if I do say so myself. I plan to pay it forward, especially since I don't know who got the penguin for me. It's the little things that keep you happy.

  • 1:56 pm
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