I usually don’t really like doing memes but I like what Rico tagged me with. Rather than gripe about what is wrong with the country (God knows many have already done that!), I love the idea of spreading the word about what makes us feel great to be Filipino.

Here are a few examples of what makes me say “It Feels Great to be Pinoy (abroad)”:

Despite other nation’s oversimplified (not to mention distorted) image of how Pinoys really are, many Filipinos abroad are still proving them wrong. Sometimes, we get offended but you know what, we should feel satisfaction instead. We should feel proud that we can actually tell those who have the wrong image of Pinoys in their heads that they are, well, wrong. We may not be from the first world and we may not have had the same advantages that they have enjoyed their whole lives but, hey, despite the odds, we can still excel in so many ways.

We can easily adapt and assimilate. It’s the positive result of pakikisama, imo. I have seen how other immigrants are received by the locals in other countries. And well, Pinoys are never really singled out and hated because we know how to adjust to whatever situation we find ourselves in. We know when to conform to our adoptive county’s customs. Let’s just hope that none of us lose our Filipino soul in the process.

We are full of hope. Sure, we may whine along the way but most of us do not lose hope. You see it in the eyes of the poor people back home as they work hard to earn a living. No matter what condition they may find themselves in, they still can afford to smile and laugh. IMO, it’s not because Filipinos are so lackadaisical and could care less about their futures. It’s because despite the odds, pinoys are still hopeful that something better will come soon. Hence, the smiles, laughters and prayers. It’s hope.

There are many more reasons why we should feel great about our country, culture and people. Let’s all spread the word and encourage other Pinoys to feel proud of our heritage.