How Losing My ID Taught Me Unexpected Life Lessons

I lost my ID yesterday and was worried that the school security guard wouldn't let me in. Luckily, the guard was friendly and allowed me to enter with my library card and enrollment confirmation. Looking back, I realize I wasn't careful with it—I had already worn it but took it off and placed it in my shallow pocket. Unknowingly, it slipped away somewhere.

I had that ID for almost three years and never washed the lanyard even once. Yet, in just one day, I lost it.

I've developed a mindset to let go of things, believing that they're not truly mine—I just borrowed them, even though the school gave it to me freely. I understand that things are temporary. Honestly, if it had been my Jelly 2e, I would have probably gone wild. But since it was given for free, I don't feel as attached, unless there’s sentimental value involved. Despite everything, I'm in a good mood.

Yesterday, I began the process of getting a new ID. I requested an affidavit of loss from the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and then went to the Public Attorney's Office to get it signed. I experienced how crazy the process just to get my id reissued.

Now, let's see what’s next.

Tope, one of my neighbors, assisted me with the ID reissuance process, and it went smoothly. I paid for the expensive lanyard and ID case. Tope told me I could have approached him to get it for free, but since I had already paid, I was still grateful for his help. All the assistance he provided was more than enough. Now, I will be saying goodbye to my first ID, with its new replacement that has updated information, like the new school president. Anyway, what's done is done.

While waiting for my new ID to be printed, I had a short conversation with some former students, who I assume were CS students as well. One of them asked me about my thesis and mentioned that our thesis seemed easy compared to theirs. He shared that during their time, they were required to develop full-stack programs, which was a rigorous task. I pointed out the differences in the panel’s vision over time and what worked for them won't be applicatble to us.

He then suggested I work in Cebu rather than in Iloilo because, even if you code hard, the salary here is still low—or perhaps I should work abroad. I understood his sentiments, as technology development in the Philippines has not yet fully flourished.

Reflecting on my experience today—the friendly security guard, my helpful college hero Tope, the nice student assistants, and the former CS students sharing their knowledge—I feel grateful.

This day has given me another reason to be kind to others.