Bro-Ther-Hood

Fraternity is not good, some say it is beneficial because of the fame and honor it offers. It feels great to have circle of friends from different walks of life, but personally, when I hear the word fraternity, my nerves tremble and I feel angry when I hear somebody join in the group.I find it useless and a waste of time. I cannot understand people who want to be in, when in fact, they have their own set of friends, which I believe is the same. I get irritated and disappointed when one of my friends join in or feels interested to be in a fraternity.

Well, these are my thoughts before I met a man who has changed my perspective of the word and the concept behind it. He introduces me to his world, his beliefs and his fraternity. I am writing this article in the hope of influencing and changing the view of people on fraternity.

                                                                                        -google.com

In 1965, 8 friends composed of 1 girl and 7 boys founded the Society of Agricultural Engineering in Musuan, Bukidnon currently famously known as the “Sigma Alpha Epsilon.” This was recognised in 1966 and brought their chapter to Iloilo city in 1977.

 I had the chance to talk and get first-hand information from one of their members, Former Provincial Grand Epsilonian Joseph Leysa Lequip, a 40 year old government employee whose in his 21 years as a member of SAE. He started when he was 18 years old and still active until now. He joined because of brotherhood. He said in every fraternity, members cannot avoid having misunderstanding, family and time conflict. But, if you really dedicate yourself and love the things you do, everything will be okay.

 Fraternity is all about having a supportive family that respects one as a member According to him, there was a time when one of their members from Kalibo, Aklan had an accident and needed some financial support. As a proof of their strong bond, the group never hesitated to donate 27, 000 pesos to their member.

The group also has projects such as waiting sheds, engage in tree planting activities, bloodletting, feeding program, gift giving and help those who are victims of calamities or any disasters. They are also active in the various activities and programs in Iloilo City. They are also one with the world in promoting peace and orderliness. In addition, Manong Joseph said that most of their members are professionals and have their stable job and just like any other organizations, they have their Constitution of By Laws set of objectives, motto and goals. They are legitimate and up-to-date with their taxes in registering in Security Exchange Commission (SEC) and responsible citizens. They are a group and a community with a sense of brotherhood.

 It is but natural for us to judge others without the slightest of idea about who and what the person is going through, we are after all human beings. However, just like the famous line, “Don’t judge the book by its cover.” We cannot always make false impression on the person based on his outward appearance, rather we have to delve deeper in his mind and heart, so we will understand who he is and what he is capable of doing.