His Forgotten Legacy

by: Alupihan

Throughout history in the Philippines, our very own Jose Protacio Rizal was

known to be a model son. His dedication to his works has been recognized over the

years and helped many people in different ways. It is no wonder why Rizal became one

of the well-known heroes in our country. These facts made me ask myself, why should

we be like Rizal? How should we be like him?

Rizal’s mother, Teodora Alonso, along with his three uncles: Gregorio, Jose, and

Manuel, had the greatest influence that they opened his precious eyes and heart for his

growth as an individual. What awed me is his obedience towards his parents and his

uncles. It made me realize that this behavior helped him a lot to pursue his dreams.

Alongside his love for arts and literature supported his will for expressing his thoughts

and beliefs. In light of his works, he as well inspired his compatriots that changed their

lives. Another thing that his mother taught him that I admired is being thrifty. I began to

think that this lesson is not just only in money, but in time of life. As part of this youth

generation, not wasting a single second of life should always be on our mind, for Rizal

proclaimed to his countrymen that “the youth is the hope of our nation.”

His obedience and behavior towards his valuable life shaped him as what we

described him now. Rizal is truly a hero, and that should always be remembered.