A Powerful Book on Filipino Struggle
I have just finished reading "When the Elephants Dance" by Tess Uriza Holthe. It's a gripping tale about our ancestors' struggles during World War II.
In Alejandro Karangalan's own words (one of the main characters) "It is up to Roderick and me to build and to teach the other children that it is better to stand together than to let other nations divide us. We fought beside our Amerikano brothers to take back our independence. It was not just given to us. I will remember how we Filipinos stood together and put our differences aside. I shall remember how strong we were. It is up to us now to keep our pride intact."
Growing up, I have always asked my grandparents what it was like during the war. They would try to evade the topic. I remembered having been reprimanded whenever I don't finish the food on my plate. My grandma would tell me "finish your plate because you are lucky to have something to eat. During the war, we were lucky to be able to have water to drink, if at all". The book has made me realize how true those words were. Hunger and dehydration was prevalent then.
The story is quite tragic, but it reminds us of the precious lives our ancestors gave up just so we can enjoy the freedom we have today. I take pride of my roots. The book stirred in me the patriotism that has long been put to sleep.
On the other hand, there were some light moments - stories and folklores. Our culture is, indeed, rich of superstitions and folklores and illogical beliefs.
This is a must-read - truly highly recommended.
1 comment:
Hi Fickle, Huk member din ang lolo ko... :)
Post a Comment