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January 10, 2006
Two Modern-day Heroines: One Dead, One Living
Amidst all the dreary news we find stories of inspiration.
One is about US Army Sgt. Myla Marasvillas. Born in Bohol, Myla immigrated to the US with her mother in the 90's. She was 16 years old then. Instead of looking for the time-honored career of nursing, she opted to join the army.
On Christmas eve, on a patrol in strife-torn Iraq, a rebel rocket slammed into the armored vehicle she was riding in, killing her. She died in the call of duty. Although she died as a US citizen, it can be said that it was her Filipino blood that gave her the courage to enlist in such a high-risk occupation.
She will be buried in Bohol with full military honors.
The other story is about 12-year old Cristina Bugayong. Cristina lives in a shanty with her family in Quezon city. One day, as she was playing with friends, a motorcycle whizzed by and a satchel fell off. Looking in the bag, Cristina discovered around 300,000 in cash and checks, more than enough to feed her poverty-stricken family for months.
Yet, without second thought, she returned the satchel to its rightful owner (after two other impostors tried to claim it).
Cristina's deed landed in the papers. Inspired by her act of honesty, many businessmen rewarded her and her family with other gifts that, if totalled, would exceed the amount of money she returned. Honesty, indeed, has its benefits.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo even sought audience with her. It is my prayer that she will not grow up to be like GMA.
Posted by francis at January 10, 2006 02:14 PM
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