The Passenger's Prerogative

I was struck when I rode the MRT's women-only carriage this afternoon. A lady passenger, perhaps in her 40s, offered her seat to an older woman who's struggling to keep her balance while the train moved. A few minutes later, another lady offered the same gesture to another elderly. As if surprised by this uncommon act, she kept on saying Thank You until she got seated. When finally the good Samaritan was able to seat herself, the old woman beside her rephrased her gratitude this way..'but pa ang babae, thank you ha'. Hearing the remark, I silently nodded about this sad fact (ooops sorry guys, I don't mean to offend haha)

This isn't to turn down our men. I think, generally, the Philippine society is not lacking in gentlemen. Perhaps some are shy to show it (hey, don't be). Others will argue the cliche 'Kung ano ang kaya ng lalaki, kaya rin ng babae' Awww. Wag naman. Let's be grateful about the gifts that come along with our sexuality. (I don't mean to argue about gender issues here. That will be a waste of energy coz that ain't my purpose in the first place).

To concede with an "I can't do it, can you help me?", is not about being pacute, but to admit one's dependence (thereby humbling) and admiration (thereby empowering) to another.

So gentlemen, Filipino gentlemen, don't be stingy in using the passenger's prerogative. Live up to the dignity of this homeland known for the bayanihan spirit especially among our maginoos. Prove the frustrated Filipina and the elderly lady in this story wrong when they said we don't need you...because we do...Cheers!