Directions: Answer the following questions in paragraph form.

1. Why do we need to be self-aware and in what way it can help you?

We need to recognize our own external and internal existence because you are the
only one who deeply knows and understand yourself better than anyone can. As we obtain
different qualities or traits, we tend to be consciously aware of our thoughts, behavior, and
attitudes we possess. Being self-aware makes us to beyond the distinct definition of our
identity. As we started to notice the factors which defines who we are, we should accept
ourselves as an inevitable part of a human being. Change is constant and awareness is the
greatest agent for change.

Being self-aware can help us to accept who really are we, and conquer the odds
and challenges that we had been through with the use of our continuous improvement, the
new thing that we learn every day, and our personal growth as well. When we are finally
aware of who we are, we can direct ourselves to the things which matters to us indeed.
According to Aristotle, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” If you are
confidently aware of yourself, then you have the capability to commit yourself and become
a better version of who you are. Through self-awareness, we will be able to empower
people and conquer circumstances which can shape our lives unto the best that we can.

2. Do you think values are taught? Or caught? Why do you say so?
In my own perspective, values are not taught but caught. We are able to catch different
values from witnessing how everyone is conducting them rather than being taught from lessons at
home and school. We are the ones who practice those values instead of being told to do so. The
direct application of the values that people see created an impact to their lives and it is their
choice if they will execute those as well. Our environment plays a vital role upon catching those
values and what are those main factors according to my own perspective listed below are as
follows:

First, at home, our family had the greatest impact upon developing our values which we
acquire. Whatever happens at home has the capability to shape one’s person and practices. For an
example, when the family members are always fighting with each other, it created a huge impact
on the child and will possess those values as well. Second, at school, students usually learn more
from what they can see rather than just providing knowledge. For an example, some students were
influenced more with what are the activities conducted by their classmates rather than applying
the values written in their notes. Third, the society, the values of people were affected with what
were executed by the people around them. For an example, what the environment accepts as right,
people also considered it as right even though sometimes it is literally wrong. Lastly, the media,
as media provided an influence with creating an influence that may copy or catch by the viewers.
Such example is when a person watches a certain movie, he may copy and portray what are the
values and practices which he watched from watching it.

Good values are easier caught than taught. We may differ from each other because we
came from different backgrounds, but what important is the values that we caught can shape us to
become better individuals of the future. Keep in mind that defining what do we value and acting
upon those caught values will bring clarity and direction to our life. Honoring those values can
help us to become better versions of ourselves and confidently conducting right values in life.

3. What are your concept of Filipino values?

 In my own perspective, the concept of Filipino values tends to emphasize the traits and
characteristics which stimulates the well-being of a Filipino; hence the Filipino values according
to my concept highlights the characteristics that are written below:

First and foremost is Faith and Religiosity, our relationship with God is vital among our
fellow Filipinos and my life as well. Life may knock me down a million times and I learned on
how to stand up and say, bring it on because I have Jesus by my side. He is always here for us, all
we have to do is to accept Him in our hearts and let everything happen according to His will,
After all, I am His child, one of His masterpiece, and His creation, that is why I strengthen my
faith and religiosity in the light of honoring Him as my God and my Savior. Second, I believe in
Bukas-loobnapagtanggap or Hospitality, for Filipinos are well-known upon the said characteristic.
As a Filipino, I tend to show a friendly and generous reception to the visitors and guests of our
home without expecting anything in return. Third, Bayanihan or Team Spirit, is also a well-
known trait of Filipinos. We tend to cooperate and give a hand to our fellow Filipinos so the work
will be easily finished. Fourth, Pakikisama, no matter how hard it is to cope with different
person’s attitude, it is still important to treat everyone with respect and get along with them in
order to avoid arguments or fights. Fifth, Utang naLoob or Reciprocity/ Debt of Gratitude, during
the worst downfall of my life, I was able to rise up again with the help of the people around me,
and I hope that one day I will be able to pay back their efforts and sacrifices they made for me. It
is not because I have to, but because I want to give something back in return to express my
deepest appreciation and gratitude for everything that they did for me. Sixth, Gulong ng Palad, I
believe that life is full of ups and downs and those challenges made us Filipinos stronger and
better. Upon conquering and solving a problem, we learn from our mistakes and make those as
steppingstones that may help us in the future. I believe that we are not always be located at the
lowest, but someday we will experience to be at the top, face challenges and the cycle repeats.
Lastly is Tadhana, I believe that everything happens for a reason, and what is meant to happen
will always find a way. I also believe that destiny relies on our hardwork and choices, thus we are
the one whose creating our own destiny. Just keep in mind that you still have to believe in
yourself, your dreams, and your strength, as they will take you to where you are destined to be.