Completo: An Eye-Opening Journey

photo from MichaelDSellers.com



Without a doubt, Rizal marked notable memories in the Philippines that make the Filipinos praise his greatness. Jose Rizal isn't just a typical Filipino, for all his compatriots, he's one of the heroes that serve the country. His life story is one of a kind and inspiring. Rizal is an aspiring figure unhesitant to sacrifice himself for his family and his nation and bestowed his valuable talents to the redemption and welfare of his land and people. It's considerably disheartening that I'm one of the students oblivious of all his high-minded works, especially the event that propelled his desired reform. Sadly, my high school alma mater only focuses on Rizal's two well-known works, namely Noli Me Tangere and El Filibustero and their hidden symbolism. The impacts these works had for the improvement of the treatments to the Filipinos. Some of his least-known works were not discussed, the reason why I'm amazed by how Rizal's life and works were taught at the University. It made me admire him more, not as a hero, but as a fellow Filipino.
Reading his works shows his struggles and desires for the betterment of the Filipinos, which can be relevant in today's time. It was great how we can relate their generation to us, which explicates the creativity impressed on his works. In each work, his intelligence stands out. Rizal didn't just occupy his heroic position easily because he earned for it. He proved that he's worthy of being one.  Rizal can move away from the country and live a prosperous life, but he didn't, even if he grows in a well-off family. His dedication is clearly showing, and that's admirable. Rizal bequeaths his works to inspire his compatriots. His life isn't just his writer's side, it's more than of that, which can spark everyone's curiosity once learned. Rizal's life isn't as easy as today. He witnessed more of what he must not and lived from it. We're lucky to live in this era without any wars and struggles to live free. It is also notable that through his literary works, he proved that pen is mightier than a sword. Rizal was able to influence the Filipinos, through his intelligence, for their rights and attain justice that is rightfully for them.  There are many lessons to get pondered from his life through his inspiring quotes. Learning Rizal's life and works are indispensable and a must for the Filipinos because they can learn from it.
For one semester, I was able to know Rizal more. I'm aware that it isn't enough to know him at all, but through his works, I understand him thoroughly. My PI10 experience has been all good and fun. You don't just read all the reading materials, you get to see yourself being on the same page as Rizal, communicating through his work. Sir Arellano became more specific about discussing relevant facts about him. He proceeds on all essential points yet still gives a strong impression.
Overall, Rizal's life is a beacon for every Filipino like me to have a reason to strive more and be passionate about the country. Loving the country is not all about words, saying you do, it's about showing your love and be enthusiastic about it. As a part of the youth he hopes for, I will make use of my role to fulfill my accountability for the improvement of my beloved country.


THANK YOU, SIR ARELLANO! 

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