Digging the Roots Deep
Since the moment we laid our feet onto the grounds of our very first school, patriotism has been present. Love for our country and respect for culture and traditions are values instilled in each one of us. But the true meaning of patriotism seems to have been lost and became vague as decades pass. Now, many claim to be patriots without even truly understanding the real meaning of the word.
Back then, students would queue properly, would stand straight and would avoid extra movements upon hearing the national anthem. They would immediately stop on their tracks once they hear the music play. But for some time now, these supposed manifestations of “undying love” for the country has become pointless to students as are evident with the way they neglect the significance of these actions.
Students now act improper and are oblivious during flag ceremonies. They lack respect, discipline and love for the country as can be observed during the raising or lowering of the flag where all are chaotic and disorganized, chatting and moving around. Some would even dare make fun of the anthem - its lyrics and melody; and some, bringing to memory that viral video, would even go as far as intentionally treating the national flag like a rag.
It is not to say that teachers are to be blamed entirely on this, but it can be observed that while some are indeed making rounds checking on their classes, some advisers, not once have accompanied their students in their positions which could have possibly lessened the ordeal and made their students pay attention. So it is suggested that advisers must be diligent and firm in giving their directions during the said activity. Also, it is a must that all, not only the students, must be required to take part on the activity. Students will easily get the idea if they will see the school staff, the faculty members and the principal herself in the affair.
But patriotism is more than just standing straight, behaving properly and singing in perfect chorus during flag ceremonies. Patriotism must be felt within; a feeling which can be planted slowly to the hearts and mind of the students, maybe inside the classes. The school, if not the Department of Education must come up with a comprehensive program or routine at least that may help students internalize and appreciate more their being a Filipino.
It isn’t too late for these unlikely behaviors to be altered. We must keep in mind that patriotism isn’t just a word found in dictionaries. Patriotism is a state of mind - the love for our country that was rotted in us by the unselfish actions and sacrifices made not just by our national heroes but also by our forefathers.
