Martyr, Hero, Patriot: What is the difference?

On the occasion of National Heroes Day celebrated yearly on August 31, we again ask the question, lest we forget, the difference between martyr, hero/heroine, and patriot. Without consulting the Webster dictionary we can respond with the common and popular understanding of the words.

A martyr is one who is killed because of his/her fearless and selfless love and faith in Jesus Christ. We have two: San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila and San Pedro Calungsod.

A hero or heroine, whether dead or alive, is one who loves his/her country, teaches and lives this love and country’s beliefs and values, and dies fearlessly and selflessly for the country. We have Dr. Jose P. Rizal and Tandang Sora.

A patriot, whether dead or alive, is one who loves his/her country, teaches, works and lives the country’s values and welfare. We have such persons like Claro M. Recto or Benigno Aquino Jr. and others.

Sadly, we, especially our young people, do not know much about out martyrs, heroes, heroines and patriots. Our public and private schools, colleges and universities, seminaries and houses of formation of consecrated persons, and citizens training centers do not have them in the curriculum. Sad indeed.