Significant holidays for pondering
We experience a number of holidays last month. But these holidays are not ordinary that we just regard as a chance to go somewhere, refreshing and trifling, and to re-energize from draining days. By getting the raison d’être and bottom-line of the celebration, there are holidays that require further reflection as we look at ourselves as persons for others.
August 21 and 27, for instance, Ninoy Aquino Day and National Heroes Day respectively, remind us of the unbending sacrifices and struggles of those before us. The democracy, freedom and national identity that we enjoy now are the fruits of what our heroes have done for us decades or centuries ago. We are fortunate that we are now reaping what they have fought for. We may have complaints of the kind of democracy and freedom now but at least we have not experienced shedding our blood and shouting at the top of our lungs.
It is also in August that one movie that carries a message of patriotism and love of country, Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, the sequel to Heneral Luna (2015), which followed the life of hot-tempered army leader Antonio Luna. The movie encourages Filipinos to take a moment of self-reflection and introspection. Goyo learned to sacrifice that is one important thing to know: that the idea of knowing yourself isn’t really a kind of egotism but it’s really about letting go of your own ego for the greater good. One’s narcissistic tendency would contribute to the downfall of a concerted goal.
The movie is not just about our history but it’s also of knowing and remembering who we are. Such reminder would linger in us as the movie effectively forces us to think long after the film has ended. One can think of the never-ending hows and whys. And if one can be brought to that time, how and what would be the actions and repercussions?
The fight for freedom continued by Gregorio del Pilar, our youngest recognized national hero and the fateful events that led to the historical Battle at Tirad Pass, serves as a reminder of our youth that despite the young age, one can be a compelling force to lead and fight for valuable and higher causes.
More than just rejuvenating our physical senses on holidays, it would be the right occasion for us to reflect on what matters most. It is a constant challenge for our youth especially to value things that would make them better persons. And it comes with the realization that there are those who need most of their time and help.
Looking forward, I am equally excited for the next leg of this historic series. As a huge fan of Jerrold and, just as before, I will eagerly wait to see his interpretation of Manuel Quezon’s story, the next hero in the sequel. Yes, another must-see movie for Filipinos to take pride in.
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