"The mind can shape our reality—either for better or for worse." That line echoed in my head after a brief yet inspiring encounter at Starbucks, Ayala Central Bloc in Cebu City. I was meeting with my car dealer when I was introduced to her daughter, Samantha Cabrera. She’s in Grade 8, articulate, bright-eyed, and full of promise. More than just a pretty face, she is already making her mark as a budding journalist. Her Wattpad account is filled with articles, poems, and reflections that show not only her talent but also her passion.
As we spoke, I found myself transported back in time. “I was like you,” I told her, smiling. I, too, wrote about everything under the sun—scribbling ideas in notebooks, listening to seasoned authors, and imagining myself among them one day. Looking into her eyes, I saw the same burning drive to be an author. I recognized the power of belief in her—the placebo effect at work.
The placebo effect, in its essence, is about belief and expectation influencing real outcomes. It's a powerful reminder of how our thoughts can manifest into reality. What we choose to believe often becomes our experience. Samantha, in her youthful confidence, mirrors this truth. Her belief in her potential fuels her creativity and determination.
But the placebo effect has a darker side. It is also at play when political promises cloud the judgment of the masses. Many believe, often blindly, that electing a politician will lift them from poverty and despair. They cling to these promises as if they were truths, only to be disappointed later. That, too, is the mind shaping reality—only this time, for the worse.
Samantha and the hopeful masses teach us a vital lesson: our beliefs shape our lives. They can either uplift us or mislead us. That’s why it’s important to nurture hope but also remain grounded in reality.
To those guiding the younger generation, especially young minds like Samantha’s—be mindful of the words you sow. Feed them beautiful yet honest thoughts. Inspire them to dream, but teach them to work for those dreams. The mind is powerful. Let’s use it to uplift, to build, and to believe in what’s truly possible.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonColumn #MarchanismManifesto