The Filipino is CNN Hero

Efren “Kuya Ef” Peñaflorida gives the Filipino integrity beyond reasonable doubt. He gives justice to all those who work honestly in impossible circumstances, those who persevere to remake the fabric of our degenerating corner of this earth, both literally and figuratively. He puts shame on those who generalize that Filipinos are “beggars.”

Let us ponder on what made Kuya Ef sensational. First, he makes the opportunity for himself and does not wait that it be given. Most of us, like the unemployed, tend to point the finger at the government for their insufficiencies in life. Let us remember that the final decision and action rest on us. Ultimately, we are responsible for ourselves.

Second, Efren Peñaflorida is patient and persevering. While we all agree that the level of corruption has gone worst from worse, this should not stop us from taking the high road. We experience in daily life that when we do, people around us reciprocate in the same manner. Be kind and others will most probably be kind to you. Be patient, and most probably, you will find something worthwhile in due time. Be smart and don’t stop educating yourself, and for sure, you won’t end up disliking and being disappointed at yourself at the end of the day.

Third, our hero continues to give the fruits of honest labor. It is right to give what is due to anyone, but to give away what is due to one’s self is heroic.

I pray that all political leaders elected in 2010 will have the qualities of our hero. Then we will all call it a DAY!

(The image in this post is from cnn.com)