Young Roots
The gift of hope
By Johanne Margarette R. Macob
WE can survive a day without food, clothes and shelter; but a single second without hope? That would kill us. (I can’t remember from whom I learned that thought. I might’ve read it somewhere, or heard it on television, or from a priest perhaps).
A couple of weeks ago, the worst typhoon struck our country. Many suffered from their irreparable losses.
Many almost lost hope, as well.
And though our brothers and sisters in Visayas are still having difficult times rebuilding their lives, the important thing is, they are gradually picking up the pieces. One of the things we can be proud of about being Filipinos is our indomitable spirit. We are known as a positive people. We never lose hope.
On a personal level, I, too, have gone through hard times in my 21 years of existence. I have lost friends and important acquaintances. I’ve been through heartaches, frustrations, and disappointments. To cope with all these, I tried blaming others. I locked myself in my room, shutting out people. I was too immature to think that those would work, but of course, they never did. I soon realized that what actually works is reminding myself, that when things turn for the worst, there’s a better tomorrow always, and that I can always use some help.
Undoubtedly, the best thing we can do to help people cope is to extend our hands to them. This is being manifested in the present situation in the South. Their hopes are buoyed by the overwhelming response from all over the world to aid them.
This Christmas, I know not everyone is having the best time of their year. Some may be undergoing some tough challenges or continue to cope with a loss. Let’s lift them up as we do for the people in Leyte, very much like what the provincial government has done.
Share one of the best gifts to everyone. Ignite hope in others by listening to them, giving a hand, or by simply being with them to assure them they are not alone.
But above all, remind yourself that you can’t give anything you don’t have. It’s important that the light of hope in yourself continues to shine, and to remember that things can only get better.
Happy holidays all!
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