1 The Future Lawyer

I was half-interested. I went upstairs with a weakened body. The laborious discourse with the cab driver has drained my energy badly. I just finished eating my supper when suddenly I heard the news about the bombing at DLSU-Taft yesterday.

I never knew that there were severe casualties. I never thought the bombing indeed resulted to a dozen of injured individuals that have to undertake serious medical operation, like amputation?

Seriously, the news broke my heart. As I was untying my shoe and removing my socks I felt like I was being opened to a world of anarchy.

Raissa Laurel is a 2nd-year law student in San Sebastian. She is one of the three victims of DLSU-Bar Exam bombing that needed amputation or major operation brought by this uncivilized tragedy. I caught a glimpse of her frail body on a hospital bed with her father and brother in PGH. She was obviously in a bad state, she's breathing on a tube and a large portion of her body is covered in gauze. There were marks of burns and her lower body part is completely covered. The fact that her two legs were already amputated is heartbreaking.

She didn't refuse the interview. Though she was obviously weak, I can sense the eagerness from her to share her story. She responds through writing. Her reply was - 'wrong timing, wrong place, at least I'm alive, second life'. I was speechless. At that moment, as I fixed my gaze on the television, I can't help but feel for her and give her my utmost admiration.

But it wasn't her positive outlook that put me in a complete shock. It was her father's lament.

The moment her father spoke of her unfortunate situation, tears erupted in my eyes. The sorrow in her father's eye is unbearable. He is fighting his emotions, but her daughters struggle and the unfortunate tragedy made him very emotional. Her father wished she could still regain the confidence she used to have before. The enthusiasm and dedication to be a lawyer someday.

And she will. As I slowly hold back the tears flowing on the edge of my eyes, I saw her last response to Julius Babao - a phrase that put me in awe. "I am going to be a lawyer someday :) "

Mark my word. You will be one of the best defender of injustice someday, Ms. Raissa Laurel. Don't let your disability get the last straw of your strength. I am so proud of you. Your legs were severed, but your determination and passion will never be.