Today, in the Philippines, we exercise our right to vote for local officials. As before there was the usual confusion, long queues, people complaining of the heat and then the sudden rains, the commotion of a poor system . . . but in the midst of it, there are the patient public school teachers, the helpful volunteers and a community of people who are generally connected to what is going on in society and in their community.
Someday, I wish the system can get more efficient, people will be less shy to voice their sentiments (I played the spokesman once again, checking into people's complains, suggesting better ways to handle the stress and the restless crowd, etc.) and take action, that governance should be more encouraging of people who can serve the country well instead of depending on has beens and those with power and money.
I raised my choices to the Higher Being. I reviewed the choices and knew that whatever is the outcome of this elections I will continue to be vigilant, to raise my hand and speak up to elected officials, contribute my time and resources to help my community and be a part of democracy.
Freedom is always in our hands.
And to fly free does not always amount to freedom.
