WHO IS YOUR PRESENT DAY HERO? (Entry 4)

Hero (n.) - A person, typically a man, who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.

Present Day Heroes (pronoun) - He, She, You, Me, They, Few, Many, Everybody, and I?

Heroes are not made. Heroes are born. Born out of circumstances and rise to the occasion when they feel that they are needed and are in belief of what they can offer to this world. It has been said many times that heroes reflect the values of a given culture or generation. But, let us first see and understand the Filipino culture of today.

Filipinos are very happy, fun and loving people. In our society, we value our close ties with our family and friends. On a bigger picture, we love our motherland - the Philippines - because it is our home and how can we call it a home without the people who dwell in it? For many, Manny Pacquiao is considered as a hero. This explains why whenever he has a fight there's no traffic; it's as if everyone's just home watching his game. While we, Pinoys, take pride in his glory. 

Today, what do we consider as a hero?

In the past up until the present, Jose Rizal and Ninoy Aquino are two of the most legendary heroes. If you come to think of it, they both have something in common. They both died for our country. But does one really have to die in order to be called as such? Heroes like Efren Peñaflorida, Tony Meloto, and Gang Badoy have emerged. One thing they all have in common? They have invested in the youth. Yes, these people focused on educating and training the youth because they believe that the future of our country lies in their hands. I can say that I am very privileged to be part of this subgroup because this only means that I, too, can be a hero someday. That it is not too late to contribute something to my country. It is about time for a paradigm shift - the Filipinos are worth living for! Everything we do, must be directed towards the betterment of the Philippines. We have to work for the common good. With the little sacrifices that we can offer, and in putting others before ourselves, I believe this can make a hero in us.