By Wilfredo Gatbonton Villanueva
Joe Biden in the recent debate with lying Donald Trump may have stuttered and appeared lost several times, but he didn't falter.
He was the same low-key person, who when toe-to-toe with DJT may appear forlorn and defeated. But he stands his ground against the tsunami of lies, not thinking of himself, for he may drop anytime with myocardial infarction, for all we know, for shock at such audacity from a convicted felon.
This is the American spirit. In the time of confusion and self-aggrandizement, he stands up with flag aloft. Which brings to mind Santiago in Ernest Hemingway's novella The Old Man and the Sea.
Like Santiago, Joe Biden is determined to bring the huge marlin back to shore, to finish the job he is ordained to do. Sharks like orange devoured the fish posthaste, leaving only its head and skeleton strapped to his skiff. And when Santiago reached safe harbor, he did not receive derision but admiration from the fishing community, for bagging the great prize.
More importantly, Santiago inspired Manolin his sidekick to pursue what suits him best. Back in his hut, the old man dreams of lions, symbolizing his continued quest for glory and fulfillment.
Joe Biden may win or lose in November, or may even be replaced at the last minute, but this much I know as an admiring Filipino, himself in a struggle in his own Absurdistan (thanks to Ireneo): He has inspired Manolins, those American men and women of all races and creeds to continue fighting for God and country, even if they bring home skeletons. It's the spirit, recall, the spirit.
The Great Generation who stormed the beaches at Normandy, where are they? America isn't like this, looking for the fix of instant gratification, without regard to the challenges posed by charlatans, climate change, China.
The new generation would stand up like Santiago.
They should stand up now.
Wilfredo Gatbonton Villanueva June 29, 2024
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