Growing up in a poor family altered my perception of the world. Growing up as a young kid, I realized the value of money not as a means of gratification but as something that we always had to stretch just to make ends meet. My parents endured hard labour, sometimes having sideline jobs just to put food on the table, to make my cousin happy, and to put a roof over our heads. Even with hard work, there were instances where we had to make hard sacrifices. There were moments I'll never forget, like declining school field trips because we couldn't afford the fee, wearing the same shoes for two years even though they were worn out, or "na pakpak" and we had to put shoe glue on for it to work, eating the same beef noodles or rice with salt repeatedly because it was all we could afford.
I used to feel embarrassed and even angry sometimes, not because of my family, but because of the situation. It felt unfair, especially when I compared my life to those who had more. But between the struggles, I discovered something powerful: Resilience.
My parents, despite their exhaustion, never gave up. They remained hopeful and taught us to do the same. They reminded me constantly that education was the key to a better future. That advice became my driving force, and I began to see school not just as a responsibility but as an opportunity. I poured myself into my studies despite being called "pating or sipat". I was determined to succeed. When I entered high school, my parents enrolled me into a private school, and my allowance was only for transportation fare, with 10 pesos remaining for me to buy snacks. But it hit me, I started to find ways to help lighten the burden and also afford my wants.
When I was in grade 9, I started to have a part-time job. I had about 3 sideline jobs by then. My first job was a babysitter or "tig bantay bata" where I had to work on Saturdays and Sundays for 350 per day somewhere in Camella Homes. My second job was being a "labandera", but only for 250 every Friday afternoon, since we ended at 2:50 on Friday, I would go directly to that house and start doing my job. My last job when I was in grade 9 was as a maid. I cleaned, washed the clothes and everything I was told to do, ranging 1500-2000php for every month. By grade 10, I experienced having 2 jobs, being a maid and being a waitress in a bar where it also had walkers or "nagbaligya sa lawas". When I’m working in this "bar," I get catcalled a lot and sometimes I get harassed, but I'm used to this experience.
These experiences not only helped me financially but have also taught me the value of hard work, discipline, time management, and perseverance. I learned to prioritize needs over wants and never take anything for granted.
What I realized was how much personal growth came from financial difficulty. It taught me empathy. I don't judge others by what they had or didn't have because I understood what it was like to be like them, having less than more. I also had a deep appreciation for small victories, being recognized as the kindest person, getting high grades, or even saving a little money, felt like an achievement. Eventually, our situation began to improve. With the help of my classmates, friends, cousins, and determination, I was able to continue my education and help my sister with hers. The struggle wasn't easy, and it didn't disappear overnight, but we endured it all.
Ultimately, we stayed together as a family, supporting one another every step of the way. I realized that overcoming financial struggle taught me that life's obstacles don't define you, but it's really about how you respond to them. I carry with me not only the lessons learned but the pride of knowing I came through stronger. Today, I remained humble and motivated, knowing my past is not a weakness, but a foundation of strength. And with that strength, I hope to one day give back to others facing the same battles I once experienced.
.png "\"MY JOURNEY OF FINANCIAL STRUGGLE\" BY MONCEDA, HILLARY JANE C.")
