I am now facing a new world – a world being modernized, reconstructed, and changed

yet I assure you that the blood of my ancestors still runs through my veins. On the long run, I
agree that this generation is somehow proud of being "Pinoy" however their nationalism had
been gone. Gone are the days when Filipinos admire the locals. Gone are the good old days when
the youth cherish their products. This! Historical period is truly affecting the individuals. But
wait, can you attest how different people nowadays are? Are you one of those Filipinos that are
still appreciative of their own?

Years ago, when I always sit near the windows and watch my neighborhood, I could
see kids playing Filipino games such as tumbang preso, luksong tinik, patintero, Chinese garter
and so much more with smiles plastered on their faces. Even though how envious I was of the
thing called fun they had, at least they had lived the Filipino's way. Nowadays, what do kids do?
From cell phones to laptops, Xbox to iPods and Androids to IOS, the system of technology is
slowly eating their senses that made them sit all day facing the computer and electronic gadgets
where Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media apps are a must.

Our culture is the one to be blamed for. Besides, poverty, corruption, abuse of human
rights were just inputs for the weakening of our country. Did you see how technology is
changing the young adults? It has made the youth more greedy, lazy and ignorant. Teens became
out of control; they go beyond the limits; they walk into the wrong path for the sake of pleasure
and popularity. In fact, their morals are slowly decaying. Yes, I have witnessed this myself but
ladies and gentlemen, thank God for not leading me to temptation.

As a Filipino myself, I heard a lot of rumors. So, have you ever heard about the old
ones saying that the young today is much different from way back then? Do you have any food
for thought why they think we are not like who they are? Well obviously, we are born into a
unique generation, and we should prove to the youth of recent past that what they conclude, and
the judge is wrong; enlighten them that we are not only good in abrasive ways, but we do have
intelligence, abilities, and skills which are better than the yesteryears. One must then remember
that each trial we tackle molds us to be ready to face the bygones. We should aim high and strive
for the improvement because no matter what happens, the future lies in our hands. Because life's
essence is not always about complying. It is about how our spirit is burning with all our wills and
efforts.

Our national heroes sacrificed their blood for nothing. Just as tyranny, maltreat and
colonization had been defeated. That's why we must not fail the hard works of our victors and
resolve the broken roads to raise again the pride of our nation. Now is the time to stop the
improper habits and replace it with proper ones as to always accept the differences of
individuals. Face to face, heart to heart and soul to soul, we, the Filipino youth of today, are the
backbone of this land I call, Philippines.
The Filipino Youth of Today by Ellaiza Mae T. Gravanza