Wazzup Pilipinas!?
"It's not important who is first in line; it's often discussed who has the deeper mark" – this Filipino saying transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. It encapsulates a universal truth about how lasting impact often outweighs the rush to be first. In life, it’s not always about who gets there first but about who makes a memorable mark that resonates through time. This notion is beautifully illustrated in various aspects of society, from social media to politics, and even in the world of film and television, where characters, stories, and lessons leave a deep, enduring impact.
Understanding the "Deeper Mark"
The term "deeper mark" refers to something that leaves an indelible impression on us – something profound that alters the course of our thinking or perspective. It could be a personal experience, a well-learned lesson, or a significant contribution that leaves a mark on society. This deeper mark is often associated with the lasting effects of actions, decisions, and words, not necessarily the speed or the initial attention they garner.
In today's fast-paced world, especially in the digital age, people often measure success by who gets there first or who gets the most attention. However, true significance is measured by depth—by how much something can influence or change a person or situation in the long run.
Real-World Examples of the "Deeper Mark"
To bring this principle into context, let’s explore some recent real-world events that align with the idea of a lasting mark, which far outweighs the initial rush or fleeting moment:
Social Media Drama: The recent incident involving Filipino celebrities Heart Evangelista and Pia Wurtzbach showcases how personal interactions, even on social media, can leave a deep impact. While discussions about who unfollowed whom sparked curiosity, what resonated with fans was the ongoing relationship between the two, and how this action impacted their public personas. Their drama shows how actions, even small ones in a sea of digital noise, can create a lasting buzz that is talked about for much longer than their initial social media confrontation.
Political Disputes: In the political arena, relationships often reflect how profound impacts can have lasting consequences. Recently, Vice President Sara Duterte and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos were involved in a public spat after the First Lady criticized Duterte for laughing at an insulting remark made by her father about President Marcos. This incident not only impacted their relationship but also made waves in the political scene. The lasting effects of such confrontations have far more weight than the initial remarks themselves.
Truth in Journalism: A recent editorial titled "First, Choose Truth" underscores the importance of integrity and the long-term impact that truthful reporting has on society. Journalism is an art form that doesn't merely aim to be the first with the news; instead, it seeks to leave a meaningful impact by providing accurate, relevant, and trustworthy information. This is especially relevant in today’s era of misinformation, where the deeper mark lies in the credibility and trustworthiness of information shared.
The Deeper Mark in Movies and TV Series
The notion of a "deeper mark" is not only prevalent in real-life events but is also vividly portrayed in popular films and television shows. These stories often showcase characters who may not be the fastest, the strongest, or the first to reach a goal, but who leave a lasting impact due to their actions, decisions, or character growth. Here are some prime examples:
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006): This heartwarming movie starring Will Smith shows that life isn’t about who reaches success first but about perseverance and the depth of one's determination. Chris Gardner, the character based on a real person, endures hardship and struggles, yet it is his resilience and unshakeable commitment to his son that leaves a lasting impact—not his immediate success. The deeper mark he leaves is in how he changes his life and creates a better future, not just for himself but for his child.
The Dark Knight (2008): In Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece, Batman faces off against the Joker, a villain who challenges the very moral fabric of Gotham. Batman’s journey is a testament to the idea that it’s not about being the first to act but about making a choice that has a lasting impact on society. His decision to take the fall for the crimes he didn’t commit in order to protect the people of Gotham is a deep and self-sacrificial mark. It’s a classic representation of how profound decisions shape our legacy.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013): Walter White, the central character in this critically acclaimed series, begins as a mild-mannered chemistry teacher who, over time, becomes a feared drug kingpin. His actions might seem to be about securing a quick fortune, but the real "deeper mark" lies in the consequences of his decisions and how they irrevocably affect those around him. His journey is an exploration of how one's actions, however seemingly small, can echo through the lives of others long after the initial impact.
The Crown (2016-2023): This historical drama series shows the life of Queen Elizabeth II and the profound impact of her reign. The series portrays her struggles with making decisions that affect not only her family but the nation and the world. What makes her leadership stand out is not the speed at which she rose to power, but how her choices continue to reverberate through history, particularly in her leadership during times of national crisis.
The Karate Kid (1984): In this iconic film, Daniel LaRusso doesn’t win every battle quickly, nor is he the strongest fighter. What sets him apart is the depth of the lessons he learns from Mr. Miyagi, who teaches him more about life than about karate. The deeper mark here is the wisdom passed on to him that guides him in facing future challenges, proving that sometimes it’s not about getting ahead of the pack, but about what you learn along the way and how that shapes your journey.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the phrase, "It's not important who is first in line; it's often discussed who has the deeper mark," teaches us that life’s most important moments are not necessarily defined by speed or position but by the profound impact we leave behind. Whether in personal experiences, public figures, or the fictional characters we admire, what truly matters is the legacy we create through our actions, decisions, and growth.
In a world obsessed with quick wins and immediate gratification, it’s vital to remember that the deeper marks—the ones that influence, inspire, and leave a lasting impression—are what define true significance. And sometimes, the most profound impacts are made not by rushing to the front of the line, but by ensuring that what we do will be remembered for the right reasons.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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