Today is the national elections in the Philippines. I went to the elementary school where I’m registered, and claimed my right to suffrage. A right I have never missed to exercise, except once, in the decades I have been a registered voter. And that one time, because they did not allow me to do so.

I do know people who have chosen not to participate in the elections. People who have given up dreaming for this country. There are also those who participate but not step out to make a stand. They think it is futile to even try. I suppose, they too, have stopped dreaming, even hoping. I can’t really fault them.

In a recent conversation with a graduating Public Administration student, I found out that he, together with some of his class mates, do not think things will ever change. And I told him, that as a young person, he cannot afford not to have any hope for our country. Young people need to keep dreaming, and remain hopeful for the future of this nation.

I do have dreams for this nation, even now that I’m no longer as young. I do think and envision a better Philippines, especially when I look at the children around me. A better country, ruled in righteousness and honesty. Am I a hopeless romantic? I probably am, but it is because I know where I have anchored my hope in.

“God reigns over the nations;  God sits on his holy throne.”  Psalm 47:8

I have been voting for many decades now, and I have seen election turn out that seemed good, and those that didn’t. Some of the candidates I supported won, and some lost. This election will be the same, some will triumph, and some will not make it. I do hope the candidates I voted for will win. But whoever wins, I know, one thing remains, and this I can be sure of, God is still seated on His throne. And because of that, I can sit still and be confident that this nation will ultimately be in good hands.