Road to Fifty Reflections: Day 21

Called Amid a Nation’s Confusion

I was listening to a conversation while riding the jeep. The discussion turned to the current administration and the previous one.

The wife boldly told her husband that if the previous administration’s leader were to return and run again for the presidency, he would win.

While what she said felt disconcerting (even disgusting), I couldn’t help but think she might be right. Even if he were brought home lifeless, as a mere memory or a shadow of his former self, many would still vote for him.

And that made me wonder --- who is at fault? The system? Society? The lack of awareness and education? Or perhaps the deep hunger and poverty that make people cling to any promise of order, even if it is built on fear?

The driver added, “Those under the previous administration were afraid to commit corruption.” That statement, so casually said, was painful to hear... not only because it was untrue, but because it revealed how little some of our people truly know. Their understanding stays on the surface. They see punishment without justice as strength, fear without peace as security.

And what about what followed ~ the offspring, the corruption, the dynasty?

It is disheartening, yet amid this darkness, we must ask: What are we, as people of faith, called to do?

We are called not to despair, but to discern; 

not to curse the darkness, but to become light.

We are called to open minds with truth and hearts with compassion... to SPEAK when silence breeds blindness and to ACT when apathy becomes sin.

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How, Then, Do We Respond?

Faith must move us to action. Holiness is not passive. It seeks justice, truth, and the dignity of every person. To fight corruption and empower the poor, we begin with the transformation of minds and hearts... starting with our own.

Here are some ways we can live out this call:

1. Choose integrity in small things.

Corruption begins in the heart. When we refuse bribes, do our work honestly, or return what is not ours, we break the cycle of dishonesty at its roots.

2. Seek and share the truth.

Learn beyond what is fed by media or rumor. Read, research, ask questions, verify. Then, share what you learn, especially with those who have limited access to information. Truth-telling is a form of love.

3. Support honest and transparent leaders.

Be involved, not only during elections but in holding leaders accountable afterward. Use your voice and your vote guided by conscience, not by fear or favor.

4. Promote education and awareness.

Help the poor and marginalized not only with material aid but with opportunities to learn. Volunteer in literacy programs, teach digital awareness, or simply help others understand their rights and responsibilities.

5. Feed the people with real food --- and with truth.

Hunger dulls hope. People cannot think, discern, or dream when their stomachs are empty. To truly empower the poor, we must go beyond charity: provide jobs, education and opportunities that restore dignity and self-worth. Development is not just about relief, but about renewal.

6. Live simply and generously.

Corruption thrives in greed. Simplicity frees the soul to give, to share and to see the face of Christ in the poor.

7. Pray and act in hope.

Prayer strengthens discernment and courage. It reminds us that we are not alone... that God’s Spirit is already at work transforming hearts, beginning with ours.

Because in the end, the fight against corruption and ignorance is not just political --- it is spiritual. It is the work of people who believe that truth, justice and compassion are not optional, but signs of God’s Kingdom breaking into our world.

And so, even in a nation clouded by fear, corruption and hopelessness, we remain bearers of light... witnesses that faith, when lived with courage and love, can heal even the deepest wounds of a people.