Transforming into a Mayari instead of an Artemis at [New School]
Artemis to Mayari: Rediscovering Our Roots
Ever since I was a teenager, I yearned to be a goddess. Not just any goddess, though – Artemis, the Greek Goddess of the Hunt and the Moon. She symbolized strength, fierceness, and independence, qualities I admired and strived to embody.
My childhood was filled with stories of Greek and Roman mythology, but I always felt a disconnect. These tales, while fascinating, never truly resonated with me. It wasn't until I discovered Mayari, the Philippine Goddess of the Hunt and the Moon, that I found a goddess I could relate to.
Growing up, I was well-versed in Philippine folklore, hearing tales of kapre and tikbalang, diwata and engkanto. But our higher mythology remained elusive to me. I could easily rattle off the names of Greek deities, but when it came to Philippine gods and goddesses, I often found myself clamming up.
This feeling of disconnection and shame eventually turned into a hunger to learn more about my roots. I yearned to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of Philippine mythology and folklore that had been woven into our culture and lives for centuries.
However, my search for resources on Philippine mythology was frustratingly fruitless. The dearth of information available was disheartening, and I often found myself at a loss. But then, last year, Trese was released on Netflix.
Trese was more than just an animated series; it was a love letter to Philippine mythology and folklore. Set in Manila, it was a world I recognized, spoken in my language, and populated with characters that felt familiar.
Theshow, though controversial, sparked a sense of unity among Filipinos. We were reminded of our shared cultural heritage, and we reconnected with characters and stories that felt personal and intrinsic to who we are.
Today, there's a renewed interest in Philippine mythology and folklore, with major companies like ABS-CBN producing a variety of stories, films, and series based on our rich cultural heritage. These modern adaptations and reinterpretations are crucial in keeping our myths and folklore alive and relevant for future generations.
Our mythology and folklore hold more than just historical significance; they strengthen our national identity and remind us of the values and qualities our ancestors sought to embody. These stories are a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Filipino people, and they serve as a powerful reminder of who we are and who we want to be.
So, instead of striving to be an Artemis, I choose to be a Mayari. To reclaim my roots, to celebrate my culture, and to honor the legacy of my ancestors. I invite you to join me on this journey of self-discovery and learn from the wisdom of our mythological heroes and heroines.
- Embracing sustainable living and personal growth, I've decided to pursue curriculum in education and self-development, focusing on Philippine mythology and folklore, a subject that has long fascinated me.
- In my home-and-garden, I've started a collection of books and artifacts related to our national heritage, aiming to create a sanctuary for learning and sharing the stories of Mayari and other Filipino deities.
- To foster a balanced lifestyle, I combine my passion for career development with my love for sports, playing basketball regularly and dreaming of one day becoming a celebrated NCAA basketball player, embodying resilience, teamwork, and the spirit of the Filipino.
- I encourage others to embark on their own self-discovery journeys, encouraging them to delve into topics like sustainable living, education, personal growth, and sports to find their unique paths to fulfillment.
- As part of my commitment to learning and self-improvement, I often attend workshops and seminars on various subjects, from home gardening to financial management, always seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills.
