What can we learn from Pacman’s victory?

SENATOR Manny Pacquiao, won against Argentinian boxer Lucas Matthysse via a seventh-round technical knockout. Malacañang, thru Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque Jr. called the win a “tremendous feat”, and from this “tremendous feat”, we can learn something.

Before I continue, let me just be clear, I am no boxing expert nor am I an expert on Pacquiao’s career. I won’t make references to the senator’s boxing past. I will just focus on what has been written about his latest victory and what we can all learn from it.

This victory by Pacquiao is his first knockdown victory in the past nine (9) years. Which means 2009 was the last time he won a boxing contest in such fashion. Scoring a knockout victory in boxing brings about an immense feeling of victory for boxing fans. Nothing translates to a win in boxing better than a knockout. Why? It’s convincing. Not like fights won by decision, which can be at times controversial.

Let us now look at some circumstances. Pacquiao is at mid-life. He is 1 year under 40years old. Most professional careers end mid- way 30 years of age. His knockout drought spanning almost 10 years has made non-believers of some analyst and diehard fans.

Imagine the feeling you had the last time you were let down by circumstance, your boss, coworker, friend or even family member. Most would giveup, look for another job, not talk to our friends or run away from home.

Pacquio, did not give up. Despite his age and what people say about him, he pressed on. Eventually, his perseverance has earned him this “tremendous feat”

So what can we learn? “Okay, we get it, ‘ don’t give up’.” you may say. But it is not just it. Pacquiao did not give up, true, but in order for him to achieve the “tremendous feat”, he had to train. He had to have the discipline. He had to prepare. He had to study his opponent. He had to be in the moment. He had to setup his punches in order to get those knockout punches through.

Students can take inspiration from Pacquiao. They just have to be disciplined enough, study well and be sure to be in the moment (be in class, be in school). While this may not guarantee a championship belt, these practices will ensure that the student will have the right attitude as he or she continues in life. Pursue the dreams that they have set for themselves. The pursuit of dreams is an act, not just a thought.

Not giving up is one thing. Learning to give up is another. But that is for another time.