GOD'S GIFT OF CREATIVITY
By Bing Hipolito
I am grateful to God that I am able to make good use of my gifts, enjoy my work, earn my living, and also be of service to others especially to the deaf community.
It was last September 25, 2004 when Sir Jun Celada inspired us to participate and assist in an Art Workshop called SOUND OF STROKES for the Hearing Impaired and Mute Children held at ISSI Auditorium, University of the Philippines , Diliman, Quezon City . It was a project by the UP Special Education Council in cooperation with Art Play Children's Creative Center and Deaf Links. RIDE provided the Sign Language Interpreters. The event was very successful.
At first, I was hesitant to volunteer for the reason that I am a neophyte in this field. But with my enthusiasm as my greatest asset, I joined the challenge to get more exposure and enhance my skills in sign language interpreting. I missed the times when I used to teach Art Classes at Batino Elementary School a decade ago. I believe that if there is something God wants us to do and accomplish, He will surely equip us with knowledge and skills to perform the assigned task.
I was paired with Emelie Gentalian, a seasoned and experienced sign language interpreter. She has great charisma with the kids. I enjoyed watching Emelie making “kulit” with them. I have also seen God's creativity with these special children while they were doing their drawings. I was moved by their desire and love for art as they did their finest work of Art. Looking back when I was a kid like them, It was the same feeling I had felt when I was girl who loved to draw not knowing that God has given me a great gift in Art. These experiences mad my life very colorful and exciting.
I am proud to say that we from RIDE, care deeply about what we do regardless of how talented or skilled we may be. Our pleasure is never complete as when our work touches other people. I would like to commend Sir Jun for his undying support and dedication to help us boost our confidence and continue moving forward to become competent Sign Language Interpreters.