Ricky Lee's "Sampung Tulong sa Pagsusulat"

My Ricky Lee books. Two of them are signed, the rest are waiting to be

In "Now Showing: Masterclass," guest master Ricky Lee shared anecdotes from his childhood (spent in Daet, Camarines Norte,) his beginnings as a writer, background on political activism, and a snapshot of 'making it' in the industry as hundreds of students, fans, and creatives crowded the cinema for 3 hours of learning and inspiration.

Among his noteworthy lessons is the "Sampung Tulong sa Pagsusulat" for aspiring and practicing writers:

1. Tanggalin mo ang nakaharang na screen (social media, internet, other forms of media)
2. Find solitude (dahil ang ingay na ng mundo ngayon)
3. Magbasa ka (dahil walang manunulat na hindi nagbabasa)
4. Patayin mo ang sarili mo ('wag pagsalitain ang personality sa iyong mga karakter. Mawala ka bilang tao sa istorya mo)
5. Tanggapin mo ang kahon (rules, conventions,) saka mo banggain.
- While freedom is good, constraint is also helpful
6. Magkaroon ka ng ritwal. Si Ricky Lee, hindi nagsusulat 'pag nasa mood. Nagsusulat siya para mapunta sa mood
7. Keep a journal para masulatan ng mga ideya
8. Magpatulong ka sa mga kaibigan at hingin ang kanilang opinyon
9. Umalis ka sa comfort zone mo, at
10. Magsulat ka para magbuo

One of the reasons why I admire sir Ricky is because of his principle, "Habang natututo ako, gusto ko ibinabahagi ko rin 'yun sa iba." This, coming from a celebrated screenwriter/author/playwright who has probably earned and received most awards that befit a living legend.

His humility and undying openness for learning and collaboration makes him a standout in a close-knit literary industry. He makes himself approachable* and he'll make you feel like he sincerely wants to know and help you.

Case in point: In 2011, I asked him for a special autograph because I wanted to be a writer. Despite enduring hours of book signing and picture taking, he took a moment to write these words:

"Dear Ross, never give up on your desire to write. Just write as yourself, from your heart, not wanting to be like others but just your unique self!"

Tell me if you think it's wrong to adore this man! :)

*Before the show ended he told the audience we can ask for his cellphone number and exchange notes. Ikaw na lang talaga ang mahihiya.