MORE THAN JUST A FABRIC

DIFFERENT FLAGS, DIFFERENT NATIONAL ANTHEMS

Our Flag, Our National Anthem

the emblems —that reminded us the resemblance of our dignity, pride and strength.

the national anthem —the written lyrics that reminded us that we are brave, strong and powerful.

the flags —to remind us that it is more than just a symbol, it is more than just a color and it is more than just a fabric. It was being crafted piece by piece conquered by our brave ancestors who fought against land invasion, colonization, slavery, and pride degradation.

no one deserves to be treated as slaves specially in our own country, in our sovereignty. no one should die because of starvation. we are in a situation right now where humanity is in deep crisis. we shouldn’t stay silent. the more we are silent the more we are afraid, the more they’re gonna abuse and exploit us. it seems like the legacy’s been long forgotten. nowadays, we tend to forget the things that our ancestors did for us. now that we are facing circumstances, who will protect us? if we don’t fight for human rights, who will stand for us? and if we don’t speak for ourselves and for our children, who will speak for us? for them? just really tired of the repetitive cycle of a broken system. the system that should be protecting the people (rich or poor) and the nature. government’s budget manipulation that’s sabotaging the people’s livelihood for the sake of personal gain and interest. wage manipulation that affects people’s quality of living. unfair treatment to the local farmers, fishermen, minimum wage earners, businessmen (trading unfair price rates). power tripping —where they use their power to control and limit people’s access to necessary needs -such as food, electricity and water resources. no long term plans. lack of preparedness. no sincerity. the economic collapse that caused millions of people suffering from hunger and poverty.

I was a victim of poverty (it wasn’t an excuse and i know there are a lot of ways to earn income) I tried everything that could save my grandma’s life, I was just a student that time and my only income is by doing extra rackets (facilitating, competing pageants, competing festivals and competing tournaments). In 2016, my Mom went abroad and in the same year my Grandma got sick and was diagnosed having tuberculosis and diabetes. I had no other options but to use my school allowance to buy Grandma’s medicine. My Mom’s income that time wasn’t stable —there were times she can’t send money, her salary was just enough for her to pay her monthly obligations (rent, food, daily allowance). Until such time that my Grandma’s body can’t handle it anymore. I asked my friends to undergo for blood test (blood group test). Luckily, one of my friend’s blood type was fit for my Grandma’s need. After few months, without proper medication, (healthcare with limited benefits)Grandma’s body became more weak, unable to move his arms and legs and can’t walk without assistance. Her body gave up. I lost my Grandma, my best friend. I realized that what if we have money that time and what if we have enough access to healthcare, then maybe my Grandma is still alive.

I got my diploma at the age of 20…the same year I tried my luck, I tried to change my life’s story —went abroad (worked for 6 years, got married at the age of 25), came home to Ph with a baby. Now a housewife —still knocking doors for new opportunities (jobs, business) whatever jobs that’s aligning my purpose. Another challenge in my life right now is to find a solution to pay my mother’s debt. my dream is very simple —to be able to live happily, to help other people, to give a comfortable life for my family. Being able to see everyone not suffering from injustices, from any harmful acts.

The reason why I’m sharing this to all of you because I’m just tired of seeing everyone being treated unfairly (that’s why I keep on saying to everyone, “you’re not alone in this journey”). so to All of my sisters here in World Pulse, stop being afraid! and always fight for what is right! even though it’s hard… go and fight! (for yourself, for your child, for your family and for your country)

..together let’s preserve the culture and the values that our ancestors created for us …the sentimental value on it.. hand made crafts, antiques, hieroglyphics, books…the beauty of our history… may Peace reign all over the world..

the unsung heroes that lies behind the fabric…. real heroes.. real stories…