HOPE OF THE FATHERLAND

‘Youth are the hope of the Fatherland.’

A remarkable and famous saying from Dr. Jose Rizal. It is stated in his poem, “To the Filipino Youth”. How could be the youth be a hope, if he doesn’t have education? Youth are really in trouble nowadays. Many hindrances are around them. People see them as a hope, but they couldn’t provide good education, morals, virtues and perfect model for them.

Education plays a very important role for us. We can earn a lot of virtues around it. It can enhance our personality, character, self- confidence and especially our future. The only treasure that no one would bother to steal and more precious diamonds, gems, and jewels.

Whenever I see children in the street, selling sampaguita, rags, and cigarette. My heart breaks into pieces. These children should be holding a pencil and paper not that stuff. They should be at school, enhancing their knowledge and talents. My imagination of having successful country fades away.

Corruption is typical in the Philippines. It’s a problem since then. Higher officials corrupt the taxes we pay. They don’t give what are really intended for the people. They just think of themselves, not bothering to see the people they’re serving. Illegal drugs were not stopped because these corrupt officials protect it. (Nice beings, a corrupt and a protector of illegal drugs, in one? Whew,. Where can we find that, only in the Philippines? Hahaha!) They use their power and position. These drugs corrupt the mind of the youth, they’re the usual victim. And these youth were also rejected by their family and the society.

Poverty is the biggest hindrance for the youth to get a good education.

How could be a youth be the hope of Fatherland? With these increasing hindrance for him to achieve his goals. Rizal may be right and wrong at the same time with this saying. Right, if the youth can manage and enhance his talents, he can use it to improve his lifestyle and living. Wrong, for all the challenges we encounter now, that ourselves make.

As time come, we can find someone who can solve our problems and who is responsible enough to manage the country. Twenty years from now, I may be that perfect person who can fight all the hindrances we’re encountering and improve the state of our country. As of now let me just get my books, read and study. Study harder if possible and let myself be aware of the happenings in the country. Next year, ELECTION 2010 lets vote truthfully and never let them buy your vote. Choose your official with all your heart and mind.

Sarzaba, Joyce Ann D.