Patacsil, Jeffrey C.

8:30-10:00 MWF GD 715

BALS 2 23 February 2016

The Origin of my Name

On October 8, 1991, Daniel and Fe Patacsil gve their baby boy his name which means

gift of God. A name which originated from the German name “Gottfried”, then was later adapted

into Jeffery or Jeffrey by the Americans. According to the couple, they got this name in a

Reader's Digest magazine issue. They wanted their first child to be witty and intelligent, so they

browsed the magazine and searched names of scientists. They were amused with one of the

scientist's name so they gave the name Jeffrey to their baby.

According to Daniel, his late dad once told him that their last name descended from

Chinese ancestors originally it was “Pataksil” but then it evolved to “Patacsil” during the Spanish

occupation. Though their last name may give a negative connotation because of its Filipino

meaning which is “to act like a traitor”, their last name represents courage amidst adversities.

Their ancestors were accused to be traitors but in reality, they were those who stood up for what

they believed in. People rediculed them because of their ideals which may not always conform

with the majority.

While Jeffrey was growing up, he was often bullied due to his last name. Despite of his

classmates' insults, he remained proud of his last name. His last name gives him his identity and

reminds him of his roots.

 Most of his cousins and relatives with the same family name are archievers and he would

also like to follow their footsteps. His family members were his inspiration to strive hard in his

studies. Since he was raised in a family of values, he believed that it is his responsibility to do

good to others.

By sharing the values of kindness and humility, he belives that this is how he brings the

peace of God to others. He always wanted to become a role model to his younger reatives. He

always gives high regards to his family's culture and tradition. The values that were passed from

generation to another plays an essential role in his life. Even if he faces doubts and critisisms

from other people, he still manages to keep his cool because he has to be brave to stand up for

what is right. He believes that he can always overcome challenges through his family's support

and careful decision making.

Each of us are given unique names by our parents. Its up to us on how we live up to the

meaning of these names. Jeffrey continues to be an instrument of peace among others while

being faithful with his core values.