What Do We Want?

Our conscience must define who and what we are. But that assumes we have one. There are people who have none and are willing to “hoodwink” with their lies. Take Trump or some other “great” leaders.

Humanity has certain instinctive and intuitive values that allow us to discern right from wrong in general. We also have the knowledge of values acquired from tradition, parents, ancestry, faiths, families and friends, community, culture and our social acquaintances. We may hold these dear to us.

We may celebrate diversity of culture, ethnic or religious values and may incorporate some as our own. It is an appropriation that may transform us into complete persons.

Source: https://www.dreamstime.com

In our world today, we find ourselves besieged by much sensitivity. There is the never-ending paradox and dilemma of unseen forces that lead to phobias of every colour and nature. Each side believes they are right. Any question that could lead to the betterment of society is discarded. We cage these inner feelings within us for fear that we may trespass upon the concerns of others or jeopardise our rights of some but that’s fine if we are in the majority.

For example, if

• one expresses feelings about the trespasses of China or India, all hell may break loose! It is immediately construed as negative. 

• Islam is discussed, it is reserved for adherents of the faith or better still the “right” theologians to discuss. Others are excluded. 

In these situations, discourse or discernment is drowned by a siege mentality. When transparent, respectful communication is neutered, the integrity and independence of the soul’s liberty is incarcerated. We cannot be disabled or destroyed by differences or disagreements. We must each be courageous about speaking up about rights or wrongs, no matter where they are – in high or low places. Inaction gives the other side power. Silence gives the other side power. That was how Nazi Germany and Hitler rose. 

Each must seek to live a life well lived. This is an essential part of our journey. Such a struggle, futile as it may seem, may well be a treasure, a gift to bequeath to our children.

Now we are heading for national elections, let’s do some soul-searching.

• What is our true “north” that allows us to discriminate, disadvantage, demoralise others?

• Do we reject the deceptive divisions of race and religion?

• Do we reject corruption? 

• What are the values that will guide us that even “thieves” dare to stand for election?

No one party or candidate must determine for us what our nation should become. It is the collective conscience of the many that must determine the actions of the few. In this PRU15, examine your heart and your head for those with love, faith, righteousness, integrity and hope for a better future for Malaysia.

Reference:

What kind of nation do we want? Listen to your soul, Dominic Damian, ALIRAN, 18 Oct 2022