:: Absolute Insanity ::

Love for one’s country is indeed a very much requirement that every single Filipino, as young as a child, even from different races should have. But the thing is, can we still find nationalistic Filipinos today? Yes but rarely and that’s a big deal! Being nationalistic seems a very crucial act today especially to the youth. Even I, myself, can say that I do many things that oppose and contradict on what we call “nationalism.” Take for example are the things that we bought from the market. It’s no wonder and it can’t be denied that we Filipinos yearn for imported products and even reject our very own. We even shout “Wow! Imported… Let’s prioritize this!” the worse is when we say “Made in Philippines? I demand for an imported, branded one!” What an undeniable truth…

We are just making an impediment and barrier to the progress, industrialization and countryside development. One more thing is that we no longer lend free service for our nation, it must have payment. We enjoy life neglecting our responsibilities in our environment. Throwing garbage anywhere is common. It is an aggravation to our present situation, isn’t it? Where are the realizations that our past heroes who endured pain and fought till death taught us? Do their accomplishments and sacrifices still have worth & essence? Maybe yes but is deteriorating in no time. We seldom participate in the programs raised by the government for national purposes. On and on we go, destroying the government, demanding the president to step down instead supporting hand in hand for economic growth and development. We want a better Philippines and a better life, but think about it, we are the ones who ruined and messed it.

But beside the dark side of ours, lies the brilliant one. Nationalism is shown in many ways. The OFWs work hard not just for their families but also for their beloved Philippines. They are the ambassadors of a real Filipino with real hearts for their country. They represent and uphold Filipinos as hardworking, hospitable, and trustworthy. They also strengthen the peso value and boost economic progress. In fact they can be treated as heroes of our age. There are also youths of today that are very aggressive to unfold, nurture, and make use of their talents they posses and compete with other countries, with excellence in different fields garnering awards and pride to our country. We also have the patriotic, the armed forces, ready to defend the nation at all cost, wrestling with bullets and missiles, risking their lives. There are many things about nationalism and it’s splendid to say that they illuminate our dark sides.

But the question is, “do we really love and care for Philippines?” well, ours is the answer. All we need to do is make wise decisions and hope for a better country!

Trivia: This was an essay I made on my History 1 Class at the University of the Immaculate Conception