We all had some talents while growing up, or maybe not all of us. Mine was drawing; I could draw since primary school. It was something I realized I could do when others couldn’t. I remember my friends being astounded when they saw my drawings for the first time. Later, I found out my little sister draws too. We both had notebooks where we’d draw Barbie and other cartoon characters. Teachers always complained when they saw the drawings, but we loved it.

At some point, I stopped drawing, but my little sister still draws. Maybe I should go back to it, but who cares? In senior secondary school, I was confused and nervous about choosing a course path. Sciences were seen as the best, while Arts were for average students. Many expected me to choose Sciences, but I chose Arts, driven by passion and enthusiasm. We were few in the arts because many potential arts students were pressured into Sciences.

There are millions with hidden and forsaken talents. I don’t blame them, but our society does. Parents call their children useless due to their career choices. Talented people are scared to showcase their gifts because they’re denied a place in the world. I remember a friend with a powerful voice; I wonder if she still sings. I hope we don’t lose our precious gifts and talents in an ungrateful society. When passion drives you, you don’t have to force it.