I've always been fascinated by his works, idealism and his life. Whenever I read a story about him I feel like I'm reading a novel. Some people disagree about his position as the Philippine National Hero. But that's their opinion and I respect it. For me, his life and his works are enough for him to gain that title.
His patriotism has always inspired me to become a better Filipino. He's a son, a brother, friend, lover, husband-personalities that we Filipinos have in common. But what did he had, that we do not have? I think it's the burning passion for freedom, and an unparalleled love to the country.
If we can only have that kind of love for our country nowadays... If only people will stop pointing fingers to each other.I think that it is at our best interest as Filipinos if we love and respect each other. For it is by loving each other that we show our love for our country.
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| Inside his cell at Fort Santiago |
So much for my musings. On the lighter side, here are some fun trivia:
>Before Leonor Rivera walked down the aisle to marry Charles Henry Kipping, she burned Pepe's love letters to her and tucked them on the hem of her gown then embroidered the hem to seal the ashes inside.
>Jose's favorite meal they say, is "sardinas secas" a.k.a. "tuyo" :)
>He had a girlfriend he had to write love letters to using an "invisible ink"-water mixed by salt, I think. You can see the writings by putting the paper near a lamp but be careful not to burn it! (I really don't know if this actually works!)
Happy birthday lolo! este Dr. Rizal! Many more birthdays to come!( chos!)
"Kung nalimutan na yaring aking libing
kurus man at bato'y wala na rin mandin
bayaang sa bukid lupa'y bungkalin
at ito'y isabog sa himpapawirin."
-Excerpt from Ang Huling Paalam
P.S. The trivia I gave are according to my "memory". Comment below if you think I made a mistake, :)
