“Jose: Hero of All Heroes”

            Oh, god! I’m no expert at this. Alright here we go (pardon me!). Growing up, I’ve been hearing stories about this man, who, according to history, fought for our freedom from the Spaniards. I’ve been hearing very nice things about him. That he didn’t use violence instead, he used his knowledge and other abilities in order to make the Philippines free. Probably, everyone does now Rizal; he’s a living in us. But as I learn more about him, I was amazed by his different achievements and his perseverance in order for him to reach his goals.

            He’s indeed a good man, with a very patriotic heart. But I’ am not a fan. Yes, he was probably, considered as our national hero but, come on, he also, has flaws. People tend to overrate and look him up so much that they forget he is also just a human being like us. Some even look him up as a god, like really? Rizal being a god? Hell no! He is no god, but, not to bash him, it’s just that, it’s too much. Nothing against him, though. People just tend to praise him so much. What about our other national heroes? They may even have done greater things, right? Alright, I’m losing my temper now. Kidding!

            However, as I took Rizal subject, which is mandated by the law that it is a prerequisite to graduate in college (lol, I had no choice), I knew him better. A lot of things were introduced to me about his life. That he spent his life living his personal and patriotic aims. I was fascinated though, with how he lived his life and how he went through different things. Well, now I can say, I’m impressed (but again, he is no god. Please!). But, I do appreciate him. The fact that he willingly sacrificed his life for his goal was a very big thing. I guess, not all of us could do that. He’s still a very good example of a hero (but not a deity, again), especially to the youth. Rizal is Rizal; nothing on earth could change that anymore. Thanks to him!

            So, yeah; I feel fortunate that I was able to take this subject and know more about the “hero of all heroes.” I enjoyed (annoyed, sometimes) listening to his stories and I guess, I can say, that I got inspired by him, though, especially by how he persevered and how determined he was in achieving his missions. I guess, I could use that inspiration for me to reach my aspirations in life, too. Rizal lived a beautiful life, he was given the chance to explore things that an ordinary person could not probably can, and good for him, he spent that opportunity to live a very sensible and influential life. Filipinos are fortunate that someone like him was born and fought for what he love; the liberty of the country. (Buti pa yun, pinaglaban nya…) Kidding!! But then again, I’m not a fan, okay? lol Aye aye aye aye!!! Long live, bes!!

- Arvin Paul C. Compio, BSN, NU-301