TO THE SONS OF THE INDIAN LAND

I am part of the youth. I am the YOUTH. But what is the true meaning of the word
youth? Is it something which is defined by a dictionary or given by an internet source? Or is it
someone who defines himself/ herself in accordance to his own aspirations, goals, personality,
standards, family and community? Which are you?

Back then, during the time of Rizal, the Filipino youth where among the minority who
received little or no education at all. They were deprived of their rights and exploited to the
extent that they had to suffer at a very early age. They were belittled and stripped off of every
dignity that they have left. But despite of the circumstances, Rizal found hope in them. Rizal
believed that one day the youth would lead the nation to progress. He believed that with
proper education we could achieve anything. He also believed that “genius know no country”,
anyone of us could become it. That is why he wrote the poem entitled “A la Juventud Filipina”
Or “To the Filipino Youth”. He poured everything in this poem in hopes that someone would
understand or hear it. That someone could be you.

The Filipino youth of today are termed as Millennials. We have received the proper
education that we need, and we have our rights. Our dignity and honor are intact and not a
trace of suffering exists. We are now in a modern world where everything comes easy for us. It
may not seem so easy for us, but it is easier than during the time of Rizal. We have the
technology, the resources, the knowledge and the skills to affect change. We could be the
change. Now that we are enlightened, what have we done? What have we achieved so far? Are
we really the youth that brings hope to the country Are we what Rizal called as “Bella Esperanza
de la Patria Mia” or “fair hope of the fatherland”?

Putting those questions in mind and in heart, what do you think should we do? We are
still in a divided country where the people of Luzon thinks that the people of Mindanao are
dumb creatures who knows nothings, who does nothing and worse who is worth nothing.
Should these conflicts and barriers, I am referring to the sea that divides us, be the obstacle
that would finally beat us down?

Now that the elections for Sangguniang Kabataan is fast approaching, we should
exercise our right to vote. We should vote for someone who is willing to lend a helping, go
through every length to support and most importantly to affect change. Think of what would be
better for our country or our own barangay. If we can’t do big then let us start small. Hand in
hand let us take the road to progress and change. Let us prove to them that have a purpose. Let
us make our nation, our ancestors and our hero proud.