VIRIDITAS2: SOUL GREENING
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
I come from a long line of teachers. From a young age, I already knew that I wanted to teach. My mom and my grandmother are teachers. And, even though I was not the best student, I discovered that if I really applied myself to my work I could succeed in school. It was because a few teachers really gave me the attention that I needed to succeed, that I knew I wanted to do the same for other kids.
My parents worked very hard to put my sister and I through Catholic schools from preschool through college. Education began at St. Ann’s School in Kaneohe. Mom was my music teacher. Later, she became my principal. After graduation from St. Ann’s I went to Sacred Hearts Academy. Now, I am nearing completion of my bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Chaminade University. Elementary education is very crucial to an individual’s growth. Children spend so much time in school. I want to be a good teacher to help the next generation.
One of the biggest challenges I face is when people ask, “What field are you studying?” When I mention education, they ask, “Why?” There is a stigma going around about going into education. Of course, it is not the highest paying job. But in my opinion, it is the most rewarding ultimately. To be able to encourage young minds, and to teach around faith is so important. I am who I am because I was able to learn in a faith-based environment.
Of my faith life, I am not the perfect Catholic. I do not think I will ever be. But Sundays are great days. I go to church at St. Ann’s and I teach fourth and fifth graders in the religious education program. These children make it real to me that I will be able to do this every day and not only on Sundays after I graduate. To have conversations with them solely about religion and not other subjects is wonderful. It is amazing how engaged they are and uninhibited to ask questions.
Regarding prayer, I have tried different apps, Bible study books and other things in media or that are marketed, to help me in my prayer. Sometimes, I think, “Hey, maybe this will do it for me.” But, honestly, I find myself praying in the weirdest times or places.
For example, when I get really irritated or frustrated, I’ll just start talking. Most of the time when I’m praying I’m not formally sitting or kneeling down saying any kind of prayers. It is mostly conversation. For example. “Jesus, let me get through this day. Let me get through this situation. I know it is going to be fine.” And most of the time it is me talking, trying to repeat that I trust whatever God’s plan is.
Before my kids leave class on Sunday, I always remind them, “Don’t forget to talk to Jesus.” My kids sometimes respond, “Uh, I’m not going to have a great week.” “No, you can have a great week,” I reply. “Just remember to talk to Jesus.”
If you know of a person’s story you would like to recommend, please email Sister Malia Dominica at mwong2@chaminade.edu.
