Sunday, March 25, 2007 Gueco: Fortius leader By Malu T. Gueco Aslagan
FORTIUS is a Latin word meaning stronger. Originating from the Olympics language, fortius highlights their motto of victory over death defying odds.
Trailblazing our sports history, the Olympic Games began in 776 BC. Breaking out in the open fields of Olympia, Greece, swashbuckling chariot games were held in honor of Zeus, (greatest Greek god of all). Bursting forth were the prolific athletic talents of that invincible era.
Thereafter, the number of events was increased to 20 and the celebration was spread over several days. Replacing the bitter warring among the diverse groups, the games ushered in the times of friendly competition.
Leadership
Comparable to the Olympic torch, leadership work amplifies our dreams.
Spreading from Athens to Asia, Milan to Manila, Pompeii to Pampanga, leadership motivates us to be our best selves. Stirring up the potentials within our hearts; illuminating the images of our minds; ultimately, benevolent stewardship unleashes our powers of brotherhood/sisterhood, unity and harmony.
An exemplar of unique leadership is Mabalacat Mayor Marino “Boking” P. Morales. An icon of progress, a profile of wisdom and a pillar of vitality, he kindles the flame of idealism from Dau to Madapdap.
Mayor Boking Morales shares this crystal clear aspiration:
“I visualize a sustained level of economic upliftment, creation of new jobs, and a vibrant quality of life for all women/men and children of Mabalacat. One with our fellow kabalens, thereat, let us link arms and walk towards the summit of goodwill, great hopes and golden possibilities.”
What an empowering belief!
His Influence
What do they say about him?
Erana, 50-year-old market vendor expresses this sentiment, “Mayap yang lider keng gipitan mapaniaup ya” (He is a kind leader in times of crisis we can depend on him).
Rizalina, 24-year-old computer expert gives her opinion, “Ikaming kainakan, bisa kami keng biasing mayor kalupa nang Mayor Morales” Masaya keting Mabalacat... (As a young person, I prefer a intelligent leader who can guide us? What happiness we have here in Mabalacat).
Rodolfo, 54-year-old businessman emphasizes this, “Yakung oldtimer PX goods magtinda. Buri ku ing progreso para keng barangay mi kening Dau? (I am an old hand in selling Px goods? I choose progress, specially, for my barangay here in Dau).
Truly, he is a mayor for all seasons and reasons.
Finale
Our humanity appreciates the esprit de corps of the transformative Olympic games. The blazing torch passed on from the Ancient times to our 21st (twenty first) century, exalts the achievements of the human body. Participating, winning and conquering the Olympic gold, silver, and bronze medals, the athletes reach the highest peak of sports accomplishment.
In the same light, ennobling leadership springs forth like a shooting star across the dark skies of challenges. We affirm leaders like Mayor Boking P. Morales who superbly raises up the banner of the boomtown Mabalacat.
To all our readers, you and I are one. Together, let us open our arms to welcome the fortius abundance from yesterday’s labors blossoming into today’s glory. Aslagan na kayo ning biyaya? Blessings for always!
