Holy Week

Piety and faithfulness are Filipinos' trademarks.

It is no wonder that during the Holy Week the devout ones would once again strengthen their faiths and repent for their sins. The Holy Week is the once a year occasion for them to do the rites of repentance which extensively varies: abstinence, fasting, processions, stations of the cross and even crucifying and flagellating themselves, all to have a change of heart and atonement for all the sins they have committed.

I am just saddened by how some people forget about the essence of this celebration. During the ecclesiastical activities, I have witnessed how they push and shove other people out of the line, cutting in the lines and even cursing when the others resist. There was no sign of giving or sharing, no patience, no sacrifice. It was like a race to get to the finish line first at whatever cost.

The Filipinos are very devout, alright, but there devotion are sometimes misplaced and isn't guided by things that matter in daily life. I don't intend to generalize, but the Filipinos' lack of discipline and selfishness in whatever situation prevail. We already have this very big faith in our hearts, and what we should opt to do is couple it with qualities that once blended with faith will bring us greater good, not just for ourselves but for the rest of the community as well.

There is no doubt that through trials and catastrophes, the Pinoys' faith will always be their shield and their salvation, a quality that will always identify us from the rest.

I admire how old people would take part in the celebration of the Holy Week inspite of their age and frailties.

Here's a link to other Holy Week celebrations all over the world, and some photos were taken here in the Philippines including the flagellants and the devotees who crucify their selves:
 Holy Week All Over the World