Reflection Paper

The Life of Rizal Chapter 1 takes us back in time to the birth and early years of the
national hero of the Philippines, Jose Rizal. It has the glimpse of his childhood, family
background, and early education, and explains the conditions and events that influenced his
views and character.

Rizal’s family influence also became the aspect of his early life. Given that his parents,
Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonso were both highly educated and taught their kids to love
studying and to have a strong sense of social duty. And Rizal’s mother influence him in his
moral and intellectual growth by instilling in him the value of education, self-discipline and civic
responsibility.

The fact that Rizal was exposed to the social and political realities of colonial Philippines
is another significant part of his early life. His early experiences with the injustices and
inequalities that defined the Spanish colonial regime would later inspire him to become an
activist for social change.

Overall, reading Chapter 1 of the Life of Rizal has given me a deeper appreciation for the
complicated nature of Rizal's life and legacy. It has shown me that his achievements as a scholar,
writer, and revolutionary were not simply the result of individual brilliance or talent, but were
shaped by the social and historical context in which he lived.

Moreover, it has talked more about the importance that family, education and exposure to
social issues can have an impact on an individual's values and beliefs. As I read on Rizal's life, It
taught me that the power of education and using your knowledge and talents in the right will
have a great impact to the betterment of the society. And that it is not surprising how Rizal
craves for knowledge and peace for his country.

In conclusion, Chapter 1 of the Life of Rizal has been an enlightening and thought-
provoking read, and has deepened my understanding of one of the most important figures in
Philippine history. It has taught me that true greatness is not just a matter of personal
achievement, but of using one's abilities to make a positive impact on the world around us.