We just finished the 4th session of Digital Marketing Class at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business. There were many reasons that made tonight’s class special. All 13 of us (12 professionals taking the MBA + me) found a pre-agreed #NorthStar in cyberspace to make a difficult but otherwise productive connection.
Two students called in from North America (California and Canada). At least 2 connected from Sta. Rosa and Cebu. The rest were in different corners of the world. At least 3 missed social events: a company Christmas party, a department gathering, a friend’s birthday. Yes, what made it special is that it was the peak of Christmas activity and yet we all chose to be in the class. There were so many excuses not to hold the class tonight, and the fact that we still did made it extraordinary.
Of course there were the usual technical difficulties brought about by internet connections. It was the One Big Fight we encounter every session. And yes it affected the quality and quantity of the discussions. But what made it special was the resilience of the Atenean spirit!
We experienced it a couple of times on this Friday the 15th – when each one of us understood and supported each other through the difficult moments knowing that we will get that same support and understanding when it was our time of need.
Through the digital connection that allowed us to be together even when we were separated by physical space, what shined through was the power of the greatest of human values – love.
One last thing. It was often said that love is the best medicine. To which somebody asked, what if love alone was not enough? The best reply? Increase the dose.
And since this is Christmas…
