Today we commemorate the life of Andres Bonifacio, the Father of the Philippine Revolution.
On November 30, 1863, Andres Bonifacio was born to a simple family that lived in Tondo, Manila. His parents died at an early age which forced him to quit his studies to focus on taking care of his brothers and sisters. Though he wasn’t given the opportunity to receive proper education, he learned to read and write by himself. Among the books he read were novels by Jose Rizal, books about the lives of presidents, Les Miserables, and books about the French Revolution. This enlightened him and sparked in him the spirit of rebellion which eventually led to the birth of Katipunan.
The organization rapidly spread in many parts of the Philippines and has enlightened many Filipinos to fight for the motherland. Andres Bonifacio was not only a Katipunero who fought against the country’s oppressors but also a leader who had a vision for change. Even though he did not receive proper education, he was far from being uneducated as he persevered to teach himself and was eager to learn more knowledge. Today, we commemorate him as the Father of the Philippine Revolution for showing such bravery and has inspired many Filipinos in the country’s dark times and still continue to inspire us today.
Andres Bonifacio reminds us to find the hero in you. Just like most of us, he was not born into a privileged family nor had the superhuman strength which we believe what a hero is composed of. He was just mere human, like each and everyone of us. He made the most of what he had and used to help others.
In this day of age, there might not necessarily be war but injustices, abuse, and many inhumane acts that happen in our society. As human as we are, there might be instances where we feel that we are hopeless and we can’t do anything to change society. But Andres Bonifacio reminds all of us that anyone can be a hero. It just takes the right moment, or just even a spark within you to ignite the flame of revolution.
In our own little ways, we can fight against injustice and move towards a better society. If we feel that our schoolmate is being treated unfairly, stand up for them and call out the person who is doing so. If our co-worker is being harassed through words, stop the person who is harassing him or her. And if we feel that there is definitely something wrong with how people in authority runs the nation, always speak your mind and fight for our society. A revolution does not necessarily involve a gun or a sword, it only takes the passion or a drive on what you are fighting for and acting on it.
In each and everyone of us, there is a spirit of Andres Bonifacio who has a vision and passion in changing society.
We just need to find it within us.
