BAYAWAN CITY — Calamities these days have been happening successively. Whether natural like floods, storms, earthquakes; or man-made like fire or war, calamities can wreak havoc to society and humanity.
It is in situations like these when mankind’s character is defined. Hearts and feelings are softened, help and assistance flow, the spirit of volunteerism is heightened. Fervent prayers are uttered from the deepest part of the souls, repentance come a flowing.
I just wish we won’t need a calamity for people to demonstrate their goodness, or to express appreciation and gratitude to God for His love, blessing, and creation.
While the good in men seems to naturally come out in times of calamity and retribution, others also don’t seem to really mind. The best of character of a person may come out in times like these, but the true natural character of the greedy and the ill-mannered also cannot be masked.
Who should we consider as victims during a calamity? Who are those who need help the most? It doesn’t mean that all those who have been affected by a calamity deserve to receive rice, canned goods, or used clothes; I’m referring to the affluent in society.
Of course, the affluent equally need to be rescued, or to be given attention and care. But when things start to settle down, they can more easily rebuild their damaged properties, go back to their normal lives, and if they so desire, even share with the needy whatever is left of their fortune.
It is greed at its highest degree when the “dignified and moneyed” in the community wrestle to have their names listed as “beneficiaries” each time a charitable organization offers help. Worse is when they insist that their names be listed FIRST because they had earlier donated something to the community. What a shame.
If we can’t give it big, just a little love, please!!! We need consistent concern to humankind in our little ways may it be in times of calamity or ordinary times. We surely can contribute to make this world a better place.
It is a wake-up call for everyone that we have to give importance to many things we have neglected: environment, relationships, the true ideal character, and our faith in God.
Now, we have to learn our lessons the hard way. Everything will come to pass. We strive for wealth and fortune, fame and glory but all these are but temporary. Our earthly treasures in the end are worthless. Just with a snap of the fingers or wink of an eye it can crumble and be reduced to nothing. Let us share while still able and experience the real essence of happiness deep within without pretensions.
Nancy Palma Bito-on
