Brighter Sides of Things by Marilyn Rivera

by Marilyn Rivera

“We believe the Rainbow is a sign from the spirit of all things. It is a sign of the union of all people, like one big family. The unity of all humanity, many tribes and people, is essential.” – Thomas Banyacya

After a stormy chain of events, a promise awaits us in the sky. The non-stop rain did not only destroy houses, flood schools and establishments or kill people. For some, this also killed their hopes and dreams. But amidst those who suffered, countless people still made time to volunteer and help those who needed it the most. Empathy and sympathy overpowers other things in their life. We may not feel the urgency to help someone we do not know. But for these people, this is a must. For them, it is something that you cannot turn away from. It is part of their system, of their well-being to help when they too needed help in their trying-times much worse than this. These unnamed heroes surfaces when disaster strikes. Even though these volunteers are not always mentioned in the paper, they are very well-known in their own little organization. They are not after the fame or fortune, but just after the chance to help and make a difference. I am not talking about politicians or their party who shows up in front of the cameras. Nor the showbiz groups who want random paparazzi take their pictures to broadcast their good deeds. No, I am talking about those people who would choose to be in the line of danger to help victims of natural calamities rather than stay at home and stay safe. Life can be progressive even through a series of unfortunate events, these people proves it so. And selflessness plays a great role in this process. They do not get paid or get anything in return for the hours and conditions they are working with. Often, we overlook them and underestimate the impact of what they do. But in truth, the success of a nation is not far from what these volunteers are doing for us every time we are pushed down to the ground. What are the colors of your rainbow after a storm? As a rainbow's various colors gives life after a storm, people can be the same. These people came together from different places and sparked the smallest light of hope in our darkest hours. They are the wonderful colors who put more life and meaning to the word "humanity." Life can be ordinary, but some people make it extraordinary.