Yesterday, the Filipinos were united once again, not for another EDSA Revolution, but for former president Cory Aquino who finally succumbed to colon cancer. I was fascinated to see hundreds of thousands of people on the streets waiting for the funeral procession to pass. Here is a final gesture of love and respect to someone who served the country well and who in her humility, compassion, grace and piety, has built a fine example of what a leader should be.
Accompanied by the national mourning for the loss of a beloved mother are innumerable accounts of the former president's admirable character. From Conrado de Quiros' memory of Cory's visits to his mother's wake, to Ambeth Ocampo's securing of a signed photo from the president, to the coup leaders who tried to unseat the seemingly incapable housewife but who came to acknowledge her as the legitimate head of state, one cannot help but feel a sense of admiration for this humble woman, who turned to God in turbulent times, and found strength in her weakness.
Despite the continuous rain showers, people were adamant and refused to leave their posts, wishing only to be present at the funeral of a beloved leader. This, for me, is an answer to those to threaten democracy, as Cory has come to symbolize that power and freedom of the people, an answer to the blatant thirst for power by an evil dwarfish creature with a big mole on her face.
A while ago, we discuss this in class. A classmate says that people believe that Cory's death is a clear omen of what is to come, that is, the death of democracy. I didn't have the chance to retort that democracy does not die. As long as Cory's memories live in the hearts of Filipinos, as long as we unite and with one heart seek an end to the problems of the country, surely, we shall prevail. Who says Cory died? She didn't. She just transceneded the physical realm but she is still with us, as long as we want her to be.
Surely, she is not only the epitome of democracy, but also an excellent example of someone who lives his/ her faith. I lament that although the Philippines is a catholic country, it is one of the most corrupt, not to mention, indifferent to Mother Nature. Hypocrisy was not in Cory's vocabulary. Let us emulate her character.
With this important event in our history, I can only say, "Arise, Filipinos, awaken from your deep and ignorant slumber, and strive for the betterment of the Mother Country!"
I wonder what GMA's death funeral would be like?
for Miracle's network
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