Astillo, Mia G.

02/14/23
BSE-SCIENCE A2022
GE 9
Prof. Glenn Ford Tolentino

REFLECTION

Jose Rizal's life was a genuinely inspirational one. Not simply a typical Filipino story,
but one of an extremely gifted and clever Filipino who is willing to commit his entire life to his
family and country in exchange for freedom and peace. Since I was in elementary school
and till today, I have studied Jose Rizal's life and writings and that made me aware of who
Rizal actually was. Even if it may not be entirely about him, what I have studied and
understood allows me to affirm to myself, to other people, and even to those who are not
Filipino that he merits the notoriety and respect he currently enjoys. The events of him being
a national hero molded him to what God purposefully did to him, making his life genuinely
remarkable and colorful.

As a man who grew up in a religious family, and upon seeing his mother and sisters
practice these virtues, Rizal came to respect true displays of piety and devotion. In a way, he
himself wants to beseech the parents of the youth today to awaken and influence their
children to believe in God who does not impede and allow suffering to happen, guide them in
the right path showcasing the love and honor to the country, specifically, because the
parents plays the major role on character of his/her children, just like Donya Teodora Alonso,
mother of Dr. Jose Rizal, who had been his teacher and major influence of Rizal growing up
that molds him as a multifaceted intellectual and a political activist. Moreover, when he said
in one of his writings that “the youth is the hope of our future”, he wants to implore his strong
belief in the strength and potential of the younger generations around the globe. This remark
also serves as a powerful inspiration for us youths to participate and contribute for the
betterment of our world. As for the reason, we youth are essential members of our society
because they possess the mental fortitude to encounter and eventually overcome challenges
and hardships in life.

In conclusion, the article written by Dr. Ambeth Ocampo, our national hero reminds all
the citizen of this country, most likely, the parents to be the light and driving force of the
youth by starting to build the character of their child within their homes, supporting them to
achieve their goals and strengthening their minds. With that, we can secure a far better
future for the next generation and our country, just like how Dr. Jose Rizal predicted it back
then.