Before diving into this week’s main topic, let me just say this: I don’t know if it is only this near-sighted Ibaloy writer who finds it a bit strange to learn that some organizations are led by a “president or chairperson for life”. I could be wrong but this “title” sounds quite undemocratic although our type of democracy is oftentimes described by some quarters as elitist or even “demo-crazy”. I have nothing against these organizations, of course. Let’s make this clear, please.
Anyway, does having a “for life” in a position mean that among the millions of Filipinos in our beautiful archipelago of delicious coconuts and smiling carabaos, only a select few have the qualifications, intelligence, skill and whatever else to hold a “for life” position? My beef is just on why there are “for life” positions or titles in the first place. That’s the beauty of freedom and democracy, I guess.
Anyway, there must be something about a new year that engenders the feeling of new hope to people. It may be safe to say that we, Filipinos, are generally hopeful and look at the proverbial glass of water as half full instead of half empty. This may be considered as a weakness to some, and strength to others. I tend to agree with those who believe in the latter (strength), most of the time, at least.
It must be our Catholic or Christian faith where we are exhorted to never lose hope no matter how dire our situation is. As we love to say, “habang may buhay, may pag-asa”.
Thus, all or the vast majority of Filipinos believe that the new year ushers in better opportunities and that their lives will get better. However, we must be reminded that whether or not our lives get better, depends in a great deal on our own actions.
We can pray or wish all we want for a better life for ourselves and our loved ones but if we do nothing about it, then nothing happens and our lives remain the same or could even get worse. Was it Albert Einstein who defined insanity as doing the same thing and expecting a different outcome or result? Happy New Year! May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ continue to bless and keep us all safe.
May 7, 2024
