MetaphorScribe

MetaphorScribe

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Author. Advocate. Anchor. I write to remember, to re-root, and to rise. My stories bloom from grief, humor, and cultural memory.

MJ Leonardo-Gambulao is an indigenous creative writer, process documenter, independent researcher and a consultant to multidisciplinary studies from the Benguet Kankanaey ethnolonguistic group in the Cordillera, Philippines. MJ is the author of The 25 Centavo Change: A Tale of Loss and Values Gained, an invitation to face life's realities, reflect upon them, and dig up the minted metaphorical wisd

28/04/2026

Trainer’s Journal: Accepting the “Wan” Challenge

Today I chose to be the first “wan” to present—not with polished slides or rehearsed modules, but with something deeply personal. Vulnerability is my challenge this time, a departure from the safe, perfectionist side I’ve often leaned on.

I honor my beginnings—the questions, the doubts, the whispers of “why didn’t she take the sure 8–5 job?” I honor the detours, the risks, the choices that seemed impractical but carried me here.

This journey is not about perfection. It is about remembering the person I forgot when loss and life got in the way. It is about calming the storm within—allowing my modulated voice to crack, to tremble, to carry truth.

It may sound centered on me, but this is where I am: focusing inward, so that I can grow outward. This is my pathway to becoming—not just a trainer, but a voice that resonates beyond borders.

13/02/2026

Fully Known, Deeply Loved: A Self-Worth Workshop 💖
A safe space to rediscover your value and embrace who you truly are.✨

Join us tomorrow, February 13, 2026; 1 PM onwards and be reminded that you are worthy just as you are.

Photos from MetaphorScribe's post 10/10/2025

Registered. Rooted. Ready to Rise.


I’m now officially registered with the National Book Development Board (NBDB) as an Author/Writer, Editor, and Designer—a recognition of the stories I’ve shaped, refined, and designed to honor healing, heritage, and hope.

This includes my previous work, “The 25 Centavo Change: A Tale of Loss and Values Gained,” and my latest offering, “Anchor: Find Your Stillness in the Storm of Grief.”

Two works born from pain, transformed into purpose.

Two stories that speak of quiet dignity, everyday symbols, and the courage to heal.

🔹 Author/Writer – For creating original works that contribute to Philippine literature, education, and cultural identity.

🔹 Editor – For refining manuscripts with clarity, coherence, and heart.

🔹 Designer – For crafting visual layouts that elevate the reading experience and reflect the soul of each story.

This NBDB registration is more than a credential—it’s a commitment to ethical publishing, cultural pride, and legacy-building through ink and intention.

Thank you to everyone who believes in the power of story. Let’s keep anchoring hope—even in the smallest change.

Photos from MetaphorScribe's post 04/03/2025

The sunrise behind me is a reminder of the past, a beautiful memory, but one I can't change. The vast ocean before me represents the future, full of possibilities, but unknown.

But right here, in this moment, as the sun paints the sky and the ocean reflects its light, I am truly alive. This is the present, a gift, a chance to embrace the beauty around me and make choices that shape my future.

The past has taught me, and the future is waiting, but it's in this present moment that I choose to live.

28/01/2025

I thank God for the courage to navigate the maze of my mind. The gift of pain, though challenging, has undeniably strengthened me each day. This journey of self-rediscovery has been profoundly rewarding.

Listening to the speeches delivered at Toastmasters, I've come to realize I'm not alone. This is the right place, with the right people, at the right time. It's a profound sense of belonging and support that adds another layer to this journey of self-rediscovery.

In my latest Toastmasters journal, I'm filled with gratitude for simply trying. For stepping outside my comfort zone, grabbing that microphone, and letting my voice—and my mind—be heard. It was a powerful experience.

For too long, I felt imprisoned by the expectations of others, confined by their standards. But the pain I've endured, the lessons I've learned—these are now my strength, my story to share. I've found my voice, and I'm no longer silenced.

This experience has taught me the importance of perseverance and self-expression, and the power of community.

Don't let fear or the expectations of others silence your voice. Find your own microphone, your own platform, and share your message with the world. Your story matters. Your voice matters. Let it be heard. And remember, you are not alone on this journey.

14/09/2024

In shadows cast by bonds so tight,
You stand for others, ready to fight.
With open heart and steadfast hand,
You lift them up, you help them stand.

But as the tides of time will show,
Not all will share the love you sow.
For when you stumble, when you fall,
Some may not answer your silent call.

A lesson learned, both sharp and clear,
Choose your circle, hold them dear.
For trust is gold, but rare to find,
In hearts that echo, kindred minds.

So guard your spirit, tread with care,
Not every soul is meant to share.
In loyalty's dance, be wise, be true,
For the strongest bond begins with you.

Embrace your worth, stand tall and proud,
In the quiet moments, speak aloud.
Though family may falter, friends may stray,
In your own strength, you'll find your way.

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Kibuñgan
Benguet