April 14, 2025 — a day that will forever hold a special place in my heart. My Recognition Day. After months of studying, challenges, and personal growth, this moment finally arrived, wrapping up my Grade 11 journey in a way I never expected. By the way, it's me again, @rufajane.
Recognition Day, for me, is more than just walking on stage and receiving a certificate. It’s a celebration of late nights, tears, small wins, and silent prayers.
Taylor Swift once said in her song:
"From sprinkler splashes to fireplace ashes
I gave my blood, sweat, and tears for this".
And honestly, we can all relate to that. This school year wasn’t easy for most of us. Maybe because the curriculum felt a bit rushed and the number of school days was tight. Still, despite the adjustments and stress, we made it.
The ceremony was held at San Remigio Complex, not far from our home. Since we have our own service, we arrived early. The event started at exactly 7:30 AM. The venue was filled with proud families, clapping hands, and a sense of accomplishment. There were also flowers being sold everywhere.
From the crowd, I can see my proud family. They are happy and that makes me happy too. Because the truth is, my accomplishment was their accomplishment as well. I wouldn’t have made it this far without them, especially my parents. They work tirelessly to provide for our needs, and my effort is nothing compared to theirs.
With HIGH Honors
Not long after, my name was called. I felt proud and happy walking to the stage to receive my certificate. As I look through my certificate, I see not just a paper, but resilience as well. I doubted myself more times than I can count. There were moments I thought I wasn’t strong enough. But here I was, standing with fellow achievers, being recognized not just for grades or for achievements, but for persistence.
Grade 11 was no easy. There were personal battles I had to face quietly. Burnouts, pressure, and days when giving up felt easier. There was also a time when I got extremely sick for almost two weeks. I stayed in bed, constantly vomiting, and my parents grew very worried. Because of this, I wasn't able to take the final exam (4th quarter) and it made me so anxious. I was extremely weak at that time that I need to be hospitalized. It was late found out that I have mental fatigue and severe ulcers.
But I kept going. I held onto the dreams that fuel me, to grow, to succeed, to one day step into the world of law and justice... or perhaps into the world of education and public speaking. Every quiz, every paper, every silent breakdown led to this beautiful recognition.
And I wasn’t alone.
My family stood with me, clapping their hands. Their pride filled my heart more than any medal ever could. I saw my mom’s teary eyes and my siblings’ proud smiles and that’s when I knew that this wasn’t just my win. It was ours.
I am also grateful to my classmate who offered their personal congratulations to me, reminding me of how much support I’ve had, even when I felt alone. Their kind words were a reminder that hard work never goes unnoticed.
These are some of the touchy congratulations I receive from my classmates and friends:
🍁 From my classmate, Shawn — the genius and math wizard in our class:
By the way... Tomorrow is the recognition for academic achievements. Although hidden behind closed doors, your hard work surely paid off. Congratulations 👏👏👏..... Even if a million cannot peer through the veil, there will inevitably be one to do so. Don't discourage yourself and just do your best 💪 — Shawn Michael Sinangote
🍁 From my friend/classmate Shray (@saixieh):
Hello Ruffa!
Congratulations!!
Thank you for letting me hear your thought sometimes! For also sharing me your talent! That one time talk made us this close hehe. We've been close lately hehe. I hope you are doing fine. Please do take care of yourself ❤️❤️ I got you this (she's referring to the hand-made flower she made) kay wala, sweet baya ko (because I'm sweet). May we still be friends dear, walay mausab ah. I'm all ears to your rants and more. God bless! — Shray Debremie Palad
🍁 From my friend Sherelyn (not my classmate):
Your hardwork and effort was all worth it. Congratulations, my lawyer. — Sherelyn
There were plenty more messages but I got tired of typing haha, so I’ll just say this: deep in my heart, I truly appreciate each and every one of them.
This day taught me that success isn’t always loud or perfect. Sometimes, it’s quiet, slow, and built from within. But when it arrives, it’s powerful. If I could describe this moment in one word, it would be "worthwhile." Because everything — every struggle, every sacrifice — was all worth it.
Looking ahead to Grade 12, I know the road won’t be easy. But this recognition gave me strength. It reminded me of what I’m capable of. I’m not chasing perfection but I’m chasing growth, purpose, and progress.
To my future self: Never forget how far you’ve come. You earned this.
That would be all for this blog. Thank you and have a nice day everyone!
