Echoes From
BY JOHNNY DAYANG

Serviam

“I am here to serve the people” was one of the key messages of President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III or P-Noy in his last Wednesday inaugural speech at Quirino Grandstand as the country’s new President/
Imbued with sincerity and simplicity, he spoke of sacrifice. This spirit of service and sacrifice is what drives leaders to achieve their people’s hopes and dreams through selfless pursuit of the people’s interests by depriving oneself of comfort.
In President Aquino’s speech he said that the mandate of the people given to him was unexpected and overwhelming. What we all witnessed on television and those of us who were at the Quirino Grandstand is the immense support of the Filipino people clad in yellow shirts waving cheerfully to the new President. The feeling of both triumph and hope was infectious.
The yellow fever that swept the nation leading to People Power in 1986 has been one of the country’s proudest moments. The fervor was relived during the inauguration by the President’s supporters as well as by the whole Filipino nation who are rallying behind our newly elected President.
President Aquino vowed to take on the gargantuan challenge to heart by taking the country’s “cross” as his own kalbaryo. By taking the cross, he perhaps meant that he will take the burden of leadership and walk in Calvary towards the country’s salvation.
However, what the President need is for all of us to carry our own courses. The President cannot do it alone but as a people we can make his burden lighter. Genuine transformation can take place through the spirit of service coupled with sacrifice and courage.
Serviam or service guides Opus Dei founded by St. Josemaria Escriva of Spain. Last 26 June, Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, in his homily, mark the Saint’s feast day spoke of having the courage to meet the challenges of our daily work be at home, in the office or of our dealings with people, I believe that the way we could contribute to the President’s call is for us to do our share.
The challenge for all of us is to also carry our own crosses and do our part in nation-building. Transformation and change for the benefit of our country and people could happen if we all serve.