"Of following his example by any means,
than he be treated as an empty pride"
(A Rizal Day message)
At first, this note would say that Rizal's fine qualities continues to be an example of a man worthy of emulation. With his bravery and patriotism, Rizal seriously showed his love of country as he furthering the cause of freedom and the dignity and welfare of his countrymen.
Rizal had great aspirations for his country despite marred by his personal challenges. The experience of his family created an influence in his works "Noli me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo", that end almost serving as "bibles" to further the cause of the Filipino against oppression. And like his Insular and Peninsular predecessors who desired for radical changes, his works ignited a stronger sense of Nationalism and a revolution that even today continues to resonate.
For sure the current administration would again churn some thought that Rizal will "inspire people to meet the trying challenges of today", but not surprised that the same administration fails to fulfill the message Rizal left to his people- that of ensuring its well being with Education and Labour being valued as such, worse, to see them as tyrants forcing people to live in a life of ignorance. “Our liberty will not be secured at the sword's point... We must secure it by making ourselves worthy of it. And when the people reach that height, God will provide a weapon, the idols will be shattered, tyranny will crumble like a house of cards, and liberty will shine out like the first dawn.” (from "El Filibusterismo").
Hopefully, Rizal shouldn't be reduced to some kind of a venerated being whose message being mouthed time and again as some empty pride people watched it on TV. But instead, urging people to be follow his example by any means: of seeking truth from facts, of learning while working, of being selfless in its dedication to service as a Human and a Filipino.