-Nicol Ildefonso

*Marites Custodio*

"Rice" unveiled a stark reality; a society where rich becomes richer and poor becomes poorer. Thus, Estrella's narrative has left an idelible mark in my heart, fueling a desire to make a positive impact.

Now, "Rice" has become the reason why I continue to extend a helping hand to those who are in need. This single literary piece which I read has inspired me to become a better person each day. And, I know that in my modest efforts and little ways, I can be of help to others, and so much so, inspire others to be the same.

She said, “In our struggles in life, there may be things that we can’t survive, there may be things that we cannot hardly overcome but you have to keep your lesson from Santiago’s life. You may be beaten with the sufferings that you’re going to experience in life, with the troubles that you’re going to carry on your shoulders but… you have to know that your spirit as human beings will never be defeated.”

-Gwen Agbuya

-Cyrielle Dawn

- Marvin David Angelo J. Bullagay

Jeanette Molato

This poem teaches me to let go of any unrealized dreams. Most of the time, our childhood or first dreams are subjected to change for we are still not open to the realities of life that may affect our decision making. If we have any unrealized dreams, it is sometimes best to let go of it in order to focus on what is ahead of us.

_ancheta

This is actually my report. For me, I find this literary piece as powerful enough to influence us how we should treat each other with kindness because we don't know maybe they are going through something.

I learned from this poem how crucial the simple things are to my happiness and to nurturing memories. It also made me realize that everything can be important to us, no matter how small it is.

-Mary Grace Diaz

It was a love story, but the main characters didn't make it until the end. They both go through different obstacles in life. By that, I would love to share my insights and what I have learned through a poem.

Wrong Gun

-Tammy

The poison that scattered in my head and in my heart,

In recent days will always be a part.

My Penguin, how would you handle me?

I can't easily set those things to be free.

You promised to never break your promise,

But actions you've done destroy it's premise.

How can I move on on those things?

When pass feels like repeating and it hurts like yellowjackets stings.

The feeling of being shooted with pale bullet,

In darkness i still feel and see your silhouette.

You put and triggered the wrong gun in my head

But I know my shield won't let me found dead.

Life isn't just about happiness, there are things that are not meant for us, but if we hold on until the end by making those what we have experienced as a foundation, at least we still have that gist of joy and success.

One of my principles in life is to seize the day, also known as carpe diem. Just like this poem, I believe that I should not imprison myself in my past - those things that caused my heartbreaks. Despite of not so good things that happened, I am still here, standing still and ready to conquer the trials of life. Sometimes life will hit me hard but I should still rediscover the beauty of life. There are many beautiful reasons to live.  I should move forward and welcome kinder things. Take time to slow down, to breathe. No matter how hard it is, life must go on. We should live everyday as if it is our last.

-Alpha Jirah M. Bugarin

-Girleah

-Hannah Patrice

-Princess Garcia

-Mary Belle

- (Gab) Trisha Bernadette

It means to keep something in one place and enclose it, often to control it. This idea of being trapped and controlled is something that Pilar can relate to in her own life. She feels as though she is stuck between a rock and a hard place - if she chooses to marry Mr. Perfecto, she'll be stuck in a loveless and unhappy marriage, but if she doesn't, she'll be stuck in the kitchen taking care of her father. Pilar's life is a constant struggle, limited by the people around her and the conservative culture of her society.

But this story isn't just about Pilar and her struggles - it's about the countless women throughout history who have fought for our rights and freedoms. Reading about Pilar's life has inspired me to be braver and more ambitious with my own choices. We are lucky enough to live in a time when we can be anything we want to be, and that's all thanks to the women who paved the way for us. Let's honor their legacy by living our lives to the fullest!

-Rizza S. Alilay