One needs to LEAVE this country and LIVE elsewhere to realize just how much we love it. Never in my whole life did hearing “Lupang Hinirang” stir me to tears than when I was away. I have lived in the U.S. and over the years had the chance to visit several Asian and European cities. Still, I opt to stay here precisely because despite everything negative we see in this country, the positives far outweigh them.
Sure, there have been many, many times when I felt hopeless seeing the political tragedies, moral decay and corruption happening all around — but always, after giving it a few days and really thinking about it, I reaffirm my love for this country.
So as Independence Day approaches, I pray that in His Divine Time, this country will be renewed spiritually and economically. I also call on our youth NOT to give up and turn their backs on our native land. There are so many of us who can collectively and individually do good for this nation.
(Thanks to Anton of Our Awesome Planet for the flag.)
Jane, this is a very enlightening and inspiring piece. I’m spreading your word around…. 🙂
@Rhodora – am sure you feel the same way I do. Thanks! 🙂
What a really nice message. Actually today I received a forwarded link to the OAP for Anton’s post on Proud Pinoy. So this thought is now doing the rounds in the net.
Yes, I want to believe and keep believing the Pinas is not a lost cause. Our government & its cronies stink but our People have the heart & soul really worth saving.
@auee – I totally agree with you!
Amen!
The continuous exodus of our people from our country saddens me. But with very poor economic conditions, we can’t really blame them.
I am trying to instill nationalism in my kids too, just as someone in my college years inspired me to love the Philippines. Let’s start with our kids today, so that our hopes for a better Philippines will be realized someday (hopefully in their lifetime).
@imom – way to go! Let’s hope our kids do not totally give up on this country.
Great post! Lovely picture!
Yes, there will always be no other place like home for me. Thanks for the inspiration 🙂
@harmonia – thank you 🙂
@Cathy – You are my inspiration too. You have translated your love, not just for Migi, but for our country, into tangible and meaningful projects for the least fortunate. This is your legacy.
I responded to your comment on my blog, btw!
when i hear someone say those things, like how you say them, my hope is rekindled! there has been so much politicking, so much evil, so much negatives, so many poor people, so much sufferings, that sometimes, one loses hope.
hope springs eternal, or so they say, we can only do our share, beginning with our selves and families, in making our country a better place to live in.
mabuhay ang filipino!
Nice piece sis. I have rejected several offers abroad. My kids love it here despite the conditions. My 10 yr. old boy says; this is my country and I will never leave it. So despite the hardships, we’re still here slugging it out. There’s no place like home.
a very inspiring post jane 🙂 and a salute to you for choosing to live here even though you have the option to live in a first world country.
@Harmonia – ditto!
@SexyMom – Yes, change starts from within all of us and eventually will radiate outwards. There is hope for this country.
@Schumey – Saludo ako sa iyo, bro. What you did was not easy (at least in the eyes of many who are raring to jump at the chances you had). Your 10-year old is the hope of this nation.
@Cess – Thanks, Cess. Living abroad can be a true eye-opener.