This is my 11th post for 2013 and to start my morning with a good vibes, I would like to focus on the Filipino tradition that is being observed by the basic unit of society. I’m referring to “pagmamano.” There is no English translation for this tradition or action. But if you’ll search the internet, “Pagmamano” is a Filipino gesture often done by young people to the elders as a sign or respect. This is done by gently striking the elder’s right hand to the young’s forehead. Usually, especially in the provinces, the elder will say “Kaawaan ka ng Diyos” (May God have mercy on you). In highly urbanized areas like in Manila, elders usually say “Bless you” or “God Bless You.”
Mano, the root work of pagmamano, is the Spanish word for hand. Historians say that this tradition started when the Catholic friars during the Spanish colonization (check your history notes…, Magellan arrived in Mactan in 1521) insisted that the natives, who were already converted into Christians, to kiss their hand as a sign of power over them. (A similar ritual is being done by the Pope. As he gave his blessings to people, they kiss the Pope’s ring.) Being a Catholic dominant country, the tradition has been adopted by the Filipinos as a mean of showing respect to the elders.
As a tradition, a young person usually asks blessings to their parents before going to bed and when they will leave the house for school. Unfortunately, in this technology dependent era where most young people are more attached to PS2 or Nintendo rather to their parents, this tradition is rarely seen in urban areas (unless it is Christmas). You can only see the kids asking for blessings or doing “pagmamano” during Christmas when they’re asking gifts from their godparents and relatives.
Still, let’s be optimistic. It’s a great thing that the tradition survived the American and Japanese wars. And since you’ve read this short article, I think it’s not too much for you to at least do it tonight, or whenever there’s a chance. Let us keep this tradition that our ancestors adopted and nurtured. Just remember, Pagmamano is a tradition that is only practiced in the Philippines. it's up to us to keep and nurture it.
Good Morning bloggers..
it's 5:25 in the morning
early wake up :)