Recent events in our neighboring country have left many of us in disbelief. Not only was a convicted criminal given the highest office in the land, but he immediately proceeded to unleash a large number of other convicted criminals back out into society. Many of these pardoned criminals have proven to be capable of violence. Check out the video footage of the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, a riot incited by this same man as he tried to overturn a trusted electoral process.
How should we be reacting to this outrage? Is it not impossible to reconcile these actions with our long-held beliefs? As we were growing up, we normally adopted the principles of behavior modeled for us by our parents. If mom and dad chastised us for being dishonest or telling lies, for example, we felt shame. We resolved to change our behavior for the better. In our schools and churches, we got the same messages. Do we no longer share values such as civility, decency and integrity?
Events happening in another country are obviously beyond our control. The wealthy and powerful everywhere have us at a considerable disadvantage, but everyone can be made to feel shame. Church leaders in the U.S. have set a good example recently, speaking out against the excesses of the present regime. It is up to us, every one of us, to join them in condemning the offenders. Abandoning our principles is a slippery slope which can only lead to social disorder and chaos.
William Smith
Bristol
Published February 12, 2025.
