Personal Statement
I am a Bicoy, Dathan Bicoy. To be a Bicoy is not a choice; it is a given. My life has been one filled with examples of Bicoy wisdom, Bicoy capabilities, and Bicoy strength. Our family relies on Hope, Faith, and Love and demonstrates these values annually at our reunion. A phrase of wisdom that I will always remember is, “It takes a lifetime to build a reputation but only a moment to destroy it.” In our rural Molokai community, actions speak louder than words. I try to always find ways to build my reputation in a positive way. I have helped elders cross the street; I work hard to respect others and simply say hello when I see them; and I try my best to do as my family expects of me. I am reminded that many eyes are watching, so it is important to try and stay out of trouble.
Living “Bicoy” requires me to be able to spearfish, hunt, surf, build things, be mechanically inclined, and do things the “right” way with hard work. My Papa Bicoy told me many times, “Don’t work hard, work smart.” He meant for me to choose the correct tool for the job or find creative ways to problem solve issues as they arise. In my fulfilling family expectations, I have learned to provide for myself and family by spearfishing and hunting. A Bicoy will not starve and will find ways to survive with style. Of course, surfing is just simply fun in the ocean! My family and I spent years of building and hard work on our house which taught me a variety of hands-on skills and being comfortable with a long list of tools and methods which sparked my interest in Engineering.
Strength is something that has been bred into our family. Physical strength, mental strength, and spiritual strength are shared by generations of Bicoys. My Great Grandfather was one of the first Filipinos on the island of Molokai. He physically worked hard to raise a family of 12 children, most graduating from college. Educational success is expected and something I work diligently at. Physically, our family is blessed in athletics, most being involved in more than one sport. This part comes easy for me, thank goodness. Mentally, I have been told that I can accomplish anything with hard work and perseverance. I have seen this with my grandparents, parents, and siblings.
Bicoys accomplish great things and tend to do it humbly their way. I always felt that my Papa Bicoy could do anything; he seemed larger than life. I have seen my parents work together to change careers when necessary, to bond together in fighting cancer, to be consistent in their belief that God is their strength. Spiritual strength comes from the love of our Faith. I know that God is the center of my life and I know that He gives me the power I need to be the best human being I can be. I have seen this strength many times in my family and strive to depend upon my Faith in all I do. It is not always easy, especially when peer pressure sets in. I know He is there beside me always. Something that ties it all together for me is a plaque that hangs on our wall at home and that I have read my entire life:
--BICOY--
“You got it from your Father, it was all he had to give.
So it’s yours to use and cherish, for as long as you may live.
If you lose the watch he gave you, it can always be replaced,
But a black mark on your name, son, can never be erased.
It was clean the day you took it, and a worthy name to bear.
When he got it from his father, there was not dishonor there.
So make sure you guard it wisely, after all is said and done.
You’ll be glad the name is spotless, when you give it to your son.”
-Anonymous
