Patrick V.

Arcellana May 5, 2017

CLED 102 Reflection Paper 3

Last few days at the Ateneo

These past few weeks are what I consider to be my final moments here in the Ateneo Law School.
Not only law school, but eventually my last days as an Atenean student. Since I started studying in Ateneo
19 years ago, I soon came to realize that all the learnings and experiences entailed to Jesuit education are
things that I will carry on in the real world. I would never forget how the simple AMDG written on every
test paper from grade school to college would eventually be one of my guiding principles throughout my
life and in everything that I do. “For the greater glory of God” is one of the few things that I would always
share to others through my deeds. As the ALS Choir president, I always strive to give my best in every
performance and service that we conduct. Of course, not all situations are perfect but it is in those trying
times and difficult situations where truly, the idea of AMDG truly shines. In every singing opportunity that
we do, we always try to sing as correct as possible and project as much as we can even when there is a
lack of people. Never have we faltered and shied away from singing or serving even though we are only 3
people. It is in these predicaments where everything just boils down to doing it for God.
But this doesn’t just start from the performances or services. AMDG really starts from the time
we study and learn songs; from the moments where we see the pieces and try to disassemble and learn
it part by part. It starts from the patience that each officer and teacher puts in to help the new members
digest and absorb the song either through repetition or by assistance and guidance. AMDG is recognizing
that patience shows effort and determination, and this determination and effort translates to trust. Trust
going both ways; from the learners to the teachers that they will be guided all the way, and from the
teachers to the students; wherein they trust that the students would give it their best to perform and
serve.
It is in these moments that the gift of family is created within this organization. By exerting effort
and determination from each and every member of the choir, and such is converted into trust. This trust
is then made to face with difficulties, adversities, hardships. These then give birth to a bond stronger than
ever. At that point, we can truly feel that the words “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” truly lives and operates
within us.