A Challenge for Kris Aquino

Manila, Philippines – Simplicity of lifestyle for the sake of the nation and the Filipino people is indeed a great challenge for a Kris Aquino, the youngest daughter of former Philippine Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and Philippine President Corazon “Cory” Cojuangco Aquino, the mother and icon of democracy.  But how far could one, like Ms. Kris Aquino-Yap, sacrifice for the sake of her people and country?

When Moses who lived a life of full in Egypt, realized that service to God and to his people is of paramount importance, he chose to suffer rather than embrace the lure of abundance, wealth and power.

I agree to the majority opinion now that if elections were to be held today and Kris Aquino would run for President, she could win by a landslide.  Those who have listened and heard her heartbreaking speech, was moved to tears when she delivered her speech at the requiem Mass for her mother, former Pres. Corazon “Cory” Aquino at the Manila Cathedral.  She gained the love, confidence and pride not only of the Filipino people but even of the whole world, without really trying to, that if it would be converted into votes, it would surely give her a landslide victory.

But Kris, in her conversation with her best friend, Boy Abunda, said that her Mom cautioned her, that she could only run for a public office, “Kapag naging simple ka na” (Only if you become simple) that is, like her mother, President Cory, despite the fact that she has almost everything one could wish for, still she lived a life of simplicity, integrity and peace.  Kris candidly replied to her mother saying, “Mom, matagal pang mangyari ‘yon.  It would take time bago ako maging simple.”

For Kris, she really needs to have the determination to be simple within and without.  It may take this lovely and intelligent heroes’ daughter a long and continuing process to live a life of simplicity since she has not even tasted material paucity.  Human as she is the life of luxury and peace for own self is really irresistible.  Nevertheless, I cannot discount the fact, that one day she will realize and will become willing to sacrifice herself for the sake of the Filipino people.  Who knows?  Everything has its appointed time.

Thus, the utmost goal for her now is to persist on keeping on even when it is inconvenient or difficult.  One should not confuse comfort with happiness.  Abundance is not necessarily success and life’s possibilities are endless.  The best way to walk through life is with integrity in public service for it is only when you give of yourself that you truly give.  It is not enough to have great qualities, like a Kris Aquino.  But we must use such for the common good. In other words, it is living and sharing with a purpose, integrity, perfection, rightness and foremost, love of God and country.

The Filipino people understands and loves her as well, but may not be able to wait for long.