Had it not been for the miraculous morning of prayer and my hand landing on “Roman 12:4”, I would not be able to exhibit the bravery of Samson and willingly submit my filled candidacy form. Wondering where such an action would take me, I revisited all the desperate and foreign scribbles I jotted down on my notebook as I underwent discernment; there written in heavy black ink were the words “MAKE CHANGE”.
The phrase “make change” simply leads an unsure individual astray. What was it I had to do? Was it to completely change the trajectory of how the council were? There lies atop my head the answer; I simply had to see the beauty in every flaw existing. As cliche as that might sound, acknowledging that there are flaws to be addressed should always be your first line of defense. Ironically enough however, as I was already an officer prior to my candidacy, admitting that there were flaws meant admitting that we had our own shortcomings. But there should be a constant reminder that as a leader, we assume the title because we crave for the perfection of all that we deem to be out of place. So long as you continue to embrace the fiery sensation of wanting to create change, you remain— deep within you— a leader.
As I held this mindset close to my chest, I am certain I wanted to rekindle the shine in all that comprises the Assumption community. I am passionate to lead because a flaw that anguishes my heart is the inability of most students to see the glory of what it meant to be a bearer of the Red Plaid and Navy Skirt. Such faults however resulted from the unfortunate pandemic that had hit us all deeply— one which we never foresaw. Thus, to set aflame the spark that had dimmed through time, I make it my utmost priority to adhere to what we need most in these unprecedented times: A companion. I will make it my mission to accompany and listen to those whose sole wish is to reside in an institution built around a safer space. This will encompass all that is necessary: a safe space for mental health, for creativity, and for opinion. We cannot build a community of passion and leadership if we do not put priority on reinventing ourselves to fit the mold we are given.
By doing so, we will become Assumptionistas whose regained lips speak of service and compassion amidst adversity.
Gwyneth Lanuza
Assumption Student Council President SY 2021-2022