“Kapag may mga uban na po akong tulad ng sa inyo at ginugunita ang nakaraan at makita kong gumawa ako alang-alang sa sarili lamang, hindi ginhawa ang magagawa't nararapat gawin ukol sa bayang nagbigay sa akin ng lahat, ukol sa mga mamamayang tumutulong sa aking mabuhay, kapag nagkagayon po, magiging tinik sa akin ang bawat uban, at sa halip na ikaliwalhati ko'y dapat kong ikahiya.”
Explore This Quote Further
Modern Relevance
In this quote from Jose Rizal, he emphasizes the importance of not just living for oneself, but also for the betterment of the community and nation that have supported and nurtured us. This sentiment is still relevant today, as it reminds us to be mindful of our actions and contributions to society.
Quote Analysis
In this quote by Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, he expresses his belief that when he sees others, like himself, who honor the past and prioritize personal gain over the welfare of the nation and its people, he feels uncomfortable. Rizal emphasizes the importance of giving back to the country that has given him everything and to the people who have helped him in his life. He suggests that if he were to act selfishly, it would be a disgrace and a burden to him, rather than a cause for celebration. Rizal's words serve as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with privilege and the importance of serving one's community and country above oneself.
Example of Usage
In his writings, Jose Rizal emphasizes the importance of selflessness and gratitude towards one's country and the people who have helped shape one's life. This quote serves as a reminder that living solely for oneself without considering the well-being of others and the nation is a source of shame rather than honor.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on the words of Jose Rizal, consider the following questions:
- How do you define your individual identity in relation to your role within your community or society?
- In what ways do you contribute to the betterment of your community or society, and are these contributions selfless or motivated by personal gain?
- Have you ever felt ashamed or embarrassed by actions that were solely self-serving and did not benefit those around you?
- How can you strive to ensure that your actions are always in service of others and in alignment with the values that are important to you and your community?
- What steps can you take to avoid becoming a "thorn" rather than a source of pride and inspiration for those around you?
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