Why stay?

I have been a GK worker in DLSU for almost two years now. Contrary to popular belief, it does not pay that much. Actually, what I get is just enough to get me through. As they all say, it's take home pay that won't take you home. I've been getting some stick for it, as a result. You see, being the only one in the community in this family makes it a struggle. Not to mention that having cousins who spend their salaries to travel everywhere causes a rift between me and everyone else here once in a while. 

It would be a lie if I've said that I had never considered leaving for another job that pays well. It has actually crossed my mind several times. Also, considering the fact that I almost got into one of the top corporations in the country makes things difficult. People know that you're capable of earning thrice as much as you're earning now. But why settle for something like GK?

1. It is a calling. When God calls you,as much as you can, do not second-guess. He has a purpose for having you do things or make unpopular choices. He has set a mission for us when we were being conceived. It is also His way of saying, just do as I tell you and everything will be okay. 
2. God gives you things that you never thought you'd get. I suppose that for the most part of my service, I was lucky enough to get either free or discounted trips elsewhere. Not to mention that He gave me people who became the instruments as to why I've even reached the places I've been to. Over the last year, I've went to Cebu, Zamboanga, Baguio, and this year, I'll be going to Palawan! And mind you, I barely had to spend my own money to take those trips. Aside from that, I got a full scholarship for my masters degree! (and that's why some of titas are cool with my job now. haha!) He has also blessed me with friends who are truly for keeps. He has brought people into my life who could share the joy in doing His work! And for that alone, I'm thankful!
3. I now have the courage to speak about the beauty of His work. I used to think that this work was for nuts. I mean, who would give a lot of things up for something like this? I've witnessed the beauty of being a Filipino through Gawad Kalinga at the time when I was not really seeing it as a blessing. But more than that, He helped me enhance my talent in writing so that I could share my experiences to you. :) 
4. It has helped me appreciate what I have. True, I may not be rich. Actually, we're just making ends meet. And it does become difficult. But when I think about it, I have more than what others have. I have a support group, the best education that money could buy, books to teach me lessons, enough money to spend on leisure, a family who's always willing to accept me for my misgivings. Everything is a blessing. (Kulang nalang, someone whom I can truly share it with for the rest of my life. Haha! But I believe that in God's perfect time, it will happen! And yes, I'm praying for that.)
5. I've got my whole life ahead of me. I could always earn more later, but right now, I want to do something crazy while I'm young. People regret not being able to do the kind of things I do when they were younger. I do not want to say that, sayang I missed a chance at rebuilding the country by the time I'm 36! In 2024, I want to say, I was part of this movement which helped the country rise from being 3rd world to 1st!

There are so many other reasons I could list down, but I suppose, these are the most important. :)

Till the next GK adventure! :)