"Keeping the flames of Patriotism burning."
A Rizal Day Message
This note sends greetings to the folk this celebration of Rizal Day.
As any other "National Holiday" would say that Rizal's life should be idealised by many because of his patriotism, what more his courage, talent, and the willingness to sacrifice in pursuit of a greater goal such as for country and people.
And like any other person, Rizal himself was a visionary, a man of immense courage and intellect who believed in the power of knowledge to ignite change. People may've known him for his written works "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo", of his "Letter to the Women of Malolos" to that of his contributions durinh his exile in Dapitan. His yearn for reforms to his recognition of the need for revolution has taught every walk of life an unwavering love of country, his fervent desire for freedom, and his commitment to justice that even in this continuing past those truly concerned should continue to inculcate.
The current order, as in the past will only be talked out of the country and its people through threat and coercion. That by pretending they're for democracy and human rights, including that of praising Rizal and other heroes obviously these are empty words as opposed to the unjust truths such as silencing those who oppose their self-centered interests.
This note need not to be longer. But like Rizal and other heroes and martyrs of the past and present would say that it becomes a duty for a patriot to keep the flames of nationalism burning in everyone's hearts and minds. Quite agreeable that his legacy shouldn't be just limit to his written works being studied, but also heed the call for action- and that includes facing the risk and pain that one has to endure in pursuit of a belief in a society that's just, and by enduring will draw an immense strength that would counter those who oppress.