History is replete with evidence about how nations are built.
The world’s civilization did not come about from man’s desire to institutionalize himself but to survive man’s inhumanity to man; from the ashes and ruins of war, from the avalanche and acquisition of knowledge that revolutionized the market of ideas and the evolution of culture, all these became integral to the development of a nation.
Our beloved country is no exception.
After going through nearly 400 years of repressive Spanish colonization that enslaved the people, the Philippines attempted to bring about a new way of life under the cloaked tutelage of imperialist America. Then, the Filipinos again had to struggle and repel the invading hordes of Japanese marauders that eventually taught us the true meaning of unity and independence.
Today, as the Duterte government navigates its way through the maze of unhealthy polemics and political swords-play, Filipinos from all walks of life begin to witness the unfolding of a new era.
It is not too difficult to understand why the nation is currently undergoing painful and rigorous changes. The inertia that preceded the incumbent administration’s objective to implement system and mindset change has, to a certain degree, negatively affected the people’s consciousness.
As a French proverb said: “You can’t make an omelet without breaking eggs.”
There are sacrifices we need to make.
Our national leaders – without exception – must show sterling examples of good and clean living. Filipinos like to emulate what people in authority usually do which greatly influences the lifestyle and culture evolving today.
Corruption has been a perplexing issue since way, way back. It has imbedded itself in the moral tissues of our nation where our people are now trying to wiggle themselves out of its degenerating effects. It is now the single most important concern of every government in the face of the earth.
Because of this, a leadership vacuum consequently arose. Pseudo-politicians have emerged, masqueraded and presented themselves as the country’s next leaders which is now blindsiding the people and the electorate.
What a tragedy.
But to our consolation, we say: “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
America did not achieve its superpower status in one fell swoop.
Japan prospered economically despite two A-bombs that were dropped in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
China for centuries hid under bamboo curtains while going through a mass-based revolution. Its’ leaders grappled with sensitive concerns to cultivate the Chinese peoples’ own brand of nationalism after driving away the Kuomintang. When it opened its doors to the West, China was a proud nation ready to battle and meet the challenges of the times.
South Korea likewise.
And then here comes Vietnam. Torn asunder by a long, violent and bloody civil war, the Vietnamese are surging ahead of us many respects of our national life.
Where have we fallen short?
The answer – (or answers) – lies in our people.
Filipinos are resistant to change.
Like a mango tree that was planted on a recline, Filipinos have become inured to that reclined position and don’t want to straighten up.
Filipinos continue to elect many unqualified politicians because they sell their rights to votes. They claim it is poverty that drives them to do so.
Filipinos have willingly accepted their lowly mendicant status because the government is itself inducing them to accept dole-outs.
Thus, when the delivery of basic social services become short, people moan and join the parliament of the streets oblivious that they are being used as instruments to de-stabilize the duly-constituted authority.
A nation un-disciplined as we are cannot escape from material poverty because we are possessed of a corrupt mindset.
A nation divided as we are cannot stand as one because we are not supportive of positive reforms. We do not have a sense of time and urgency.
To conclude, an English monk wrote: “If history records good things of good men, the thoughtful hearer is encouraged to imitate what is good.” (Email your feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) Prov. 16.7: “When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.” GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
