The Violet Richardson Award

I was chatting with my classmate when a blue slip was handed to me. It was a call slip from the Assistant Principal for Student Affairs. I was called to go to the APSA office at recess time. My heart started pounding. I did not know why I was called to the APSA. I thought, "Was there something that I did?" I really became nervous. I was not able to concentrate that much during trig time because of the call slip. How I wished time would fly by and it would be recess already so I can get it over with.

Finally, recess arrived. There was something that we had to do first before we were dismissed so I did it hastily and asked for permission to leave. As I was walking the hallways, my mind was blank. I did not know what to expect because I did not know what will or may happen during my acquaintance with Ms. Ines.

As I reached the office, I was greatly relieved to see Bianx and Maan there. At least I knew this meeting is not only meant for me alone-- I am with someone I am close to. Bianx was the one who got the same colored slip I had. Maan only accompanied her. Bianx and I felt the anxiety gushing through our veins. Waiting for the meeting was really nerve-racking. We were supposed to take our recess first but Ms. Ines already arrived. And so it began.

I thought we were going to talk about somehting club-related since Bianx and I were called and we both belong to the same club. But one batchmate of ours joined the meeting, then comes Reg then another batchmate. Again, I felt nervous.

Ms. Ines told us that she called us because we are candidates for the Violet Richardson Award. The Violet Richardson Award recognizes and honors young women between the ages of 14 and 17 who make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts such as: fighting drugs, crime, and violence; cleaning up the environment; and working to end discrimination and poverty. Volunteer actions that benefit women or girls are of particular interest. This award is administered by local, participating Soroptimist clubs and is not available in all communities. Soroptimist headquarters does not distribute or accept applications. (http://www.soroptimistspr.org/committees/vra.html)

For a moment, I was like "Are they sure they got the right student?" I could not really understand why I was qualified for this. But then, Ms. Ines said that she consulted our club moderators about this. I still could not believe I am a part for this. I did not really know if I deserve to be given this opportunity. But then, I am thankful for the chance I am given. Perhaps, I was given this shot because they believe I can fulfill what is asked from me and maybe I have done a pretty good job in the past will do more in the future.

So now, all I have to do is create a list on the volunteer works I have engaged in. Good luck to me on that one. :))