Dear readers, let me recount to you my unique and unforgettable experience at the recent cleanup drive at Bacolod City College - an initiative to welcome the forthcoming semester. It was one of those fulfilling events that I was fortunate to take part in.
This photo was posted on Facebook.
As the saying goes, Cleanliness is next to Godliness, it’s essential to understand that it’s not solely about religion. In the realm of academics, we interpret it as Cleanliness is next to Knowledge. As we all swept, mopped, wiped, and decluttered the classrooms, library, corridors, and grounds of Bacolod City College, it wasn't merely dust and debris we were removing, but also paving way for incoming ideas and knowledge.
As the day dawned, the radiant sunlight sparkled over the humble structure of our beloved college, signaling a perfect day for our mission. We met in front of the main gate, brooms, mops, buckets and various other cleaning equipment in tow, anticipation written all over our faces. With gloves fitted on, and excitement bubbling within, we kickstarted our mission.
I remember watching in fascination as students and faculty members from all departments congregated to aid the cleanliness drive. The atmosphere buzzed with determination and camaraderie; everyone wanted to leave no stone unturned in making the campus welcoming for the fresh and returning scholars.
We were split into smaller groups, each with a dedicated zone. My group was entrusted with the responsibility of tidying up the gardens. Sweat trickled down our faces as we pruned branches, picked up litter, and dug around plants to maintain their aesthetics.
In between this diligent work, there were breaks filled with chatter, shared stories, laughter, and new friendships. Moments that still linger on my mind include sipping cold drinks, tasting some of Bacolod’s finest 'Bacolod Inasal,' and laughing heartily over shared stories of previous semesters.
Watching the principal picking up stray papers and faculty members swapping their regular duties for mops and buckets inspired us greatly. Their active involvement reasserted the message - the task was not solely for janitors but for each member who was part of the institution.
One might wonder what joy can come out of the rigors of clearing and tidying up? The answer lies in the end result. To witness the gleaming halls, litter-free classrooms, neatly trimmed gardens and most importantly, the collective smile and pride that lit up everyone’s face when they surveyed our pristine campus. It was like breathing life back into our home away from home, which has bestowed upon us a sea of knowledge, opportunities, friendships and experiences. The pride of contribution and unity amongst all participants left us elated.
And then the highlight - The entire college assembled to form a human chain for the final task: trash transfer from various points to the disposal truck. This image of unity, working hand-in-hand, remains etched in my heart and defines our College's spirit. We might be from different streams or backgrounds, but we stood together as one Bacolod City College family.
As we wrapped up the day, we left not only with a clean college campus but also with a renewed spirit of teamwork and sense of responsibility towards our environment.
Dear upcoming semester, Bacolod City College is ready.
This photo was posted on Facebook.
And to all readers, remember: cleanliness is next to godliness. If we contribute a bit towards it, we contribute towards our future and the world. I believe the next cleanup won't be far behind and, dear reader, we would be pleased if you could join us in this noble mission.