Christmas Drowns Filipino Nationalism

Without being aware, one reason why we are getting dumber as a people is our too much arrogance in hating English language that reminds our colonial past, masters and struggles. Whether we like it or not, the language of Pres. Roosevelt and Truman continues to be a major language in the field of education, science and commerce and the possibility that Filipino is catching up is nil.

With a raised eyebrow, the tendency is to accuse a totally Tagalog illiterate Tawi-Tawi native afflicted with colonial mentality virus when shopping for bargains in Divisoria with halting English.

Fact:

Some nationalists are selective in using the “colonial mentality” concern which is heavily leveled on the language issue.

Where are these nationalists who want all Filipinos to be 100% Filipino this Christmas?

Hello! Come out in full force and let your voices be heard in saying that:

1. Santa Claus, his carriage pulled by reindeers

2. The use of “snow” as a part of Christmas spirit

3. English carols

4. Buying of gifts

5. Christmas shopping

6. Technologically advanced Christmas decorations (laser)

7. Craving of products with “Made in USA”

8. Snow “show” (What happened in Baguio?)*

9. Spectacular Fireworks

10. Sending Christmas card by mail, via internet or its social networks

. . . are stuff which are strictly non-Filipino and therefore patronizing or adopting these  imputes guilt of colonial mentality and therefore, they should be discouraged if not stopped right away.

Come all out and be counted.

Never in the past that I heard you complaining the lack of nationalism/patriotism on Christmastide. In fact, your tribe is only heard when the issue revolves around the English language. If your claim that you are nationalist or patriotic is not a lie or foolishness, remember that English is one of the official languages of the Philippines and you have to respect that.

Hypocrisy is another term for selective spirit of nationalism.  It is as simple as that. -30-

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Photo Credit:
http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Asia/Philippines/Cagayan_Valley/Ifugao/Batad/photo1079258.htm