What of unity?

What is Unity?


The state or quality of being one; singleness; the state or quality of being in accord; harmony.


This is what Uncle Webster has to say to define the exasperatingly worn out word –unity. True, it is a tremendously important factor in a society but, much to my dismay, most people do not absorb its essence transcendentally, and I used to be one of them.

My perception regarding this virtue is very superficial. I do not even render much attention to it. In a group, either they get along with me or not, I don’t give a thought about it. At least, that’s what I used to say.

October 7, 2006. Room 5008. 9:00AM. We were told to attend this personality development seminar as a requirement in our Psychology 1 class. It was supposed to begin at 7:00AM but it didn’t due to campus maintenance. Anyway, as my mind drifts in mid-air as to where this event may lead, I tried to convince myself to summon just a little enthusiasm about it, simply because of the fact that this topic, err, unity do not arouse any interest in me, totally.

After 20 nerve wracking minutes of what seemed like endless tarrying, the program finally began. The venue was the usual classroom we hold our everyday class in. No air conditioning. No comfy chairs. Nothing special. Just any other ordinary seminar orientation about just any other ordinary topic. This is what was spinning in my brain , at least before a group of Psychology majors introduced themselves to us as the activity’s facilitators. I have never seen them before, I thought. They weren’t one of those familiar faces in the college offices, or who they also call as the student assistants. It was just another ordinary humid morning, and yet, much to my surprise, the facilitators exuded a very high intensity of enthusiasm. This wouldn’t be as boring as I thought it would be, I guess after all.

Kuya Mark, one of the facilitators shone brighter than the rest after he rendered a very heartfelt rendition of the song “Lead me Lord”. Surely, if it wasn’t a doxology, I would have applauded soundly. His voice was brilliant, not just his singing, but also his speaking voice. His speaking sounded very familiar. I’m pretty sure I’ve heard it before, probably from one of my favorite radio stations. Interesting. There are also other facilitators I have known during the seminar. Some of whom I remember are ate Rabbi, ate Michelle, ate Joan, and the rest, I only recall by their faces.

First, the lecturers have discussed to us the meaning and importance of unity and cooperation. And every now and then, they would ask from the students their own point of view regarding the discussion. That part of the program was a bit dragging, but very informative anyway. It was just a summary of their agenda.

Next, we had a little amusing game called “Big Fat Phonies”. It was a dancing game, actually, and it turned out to be fun. There were a series of fun games that followed, and it was just as hilarious as the first one. Not to mention it being so meaningful with its moral lessons discussed after every game. It was very fulfilling.

What I consider the most exciting game I have played, probably in my entire life was that “eel relay” game. It was very mortifying, but challenging at the same time. It has taught us a very valuable lesson, not only about unity, but also in our personality as a whole.

The program has finally come to an end, and of course, it’s time for recognition and awarding ceremonies. Our group being the winner of most of the games is something that I admit I am very proud of, especially when our group bagged the “Over-all Champion” award, plus, my personal gift from the guest speaker (“A Gift Certificate from Starbuck’s Coffee” cool!)

It was a very fulfilling and fun experience to be cherished. Also, the facilitators deserve high regards for it. Kudos to them! That seminar, truly, has altered my superficial perception regarding the essential virtue called “Unity”. I have learned that it shouldn’t be taken shallowly. Rather, we should realize its true essence, and its significance in our lives, not only in school, not only today, but for the future. The program ended at 5:30PM.