From the time we have a consciousness of our past and the future, each one strives to build a favorable memory of oneself. By this memory, others look up to us, appreciate what we have left behind: our deeds, thoughts, words, ideas which enhance the lives of others, sometimes whole communities, and even a nation.
We call this a legacy. By one’s legacy a person is lifted up to the level of heroes.
Everyone, or at least I suppose so, desires to be remembered for the good they leave behind.
There are some, however, initially motivated by good intentions, who fall prey to the temptations that powers and wealth bring.
When temptations overcome noble desires for the common good, the person assumes the horrible mask of a demon. He becomes cruel, oppressive, tyrannical, and worst of all, oblivious to the judgement of history.
In place of legacy, this person leaves behind the painful memory of a historical liability.
Once again, we slowly paddle through the murky waters of the Philippine elections. Just as in seasons past, we have characters thrust upon us, each one seeking to convince us that they will build for us a legacy founded on good intentions, history-shaping achievements, and life-changing memories. Throughout history, we have called these characters candidates.
Behold the candidate who woos not just our vote but our whole outlook of the future. All of them will present a platform on how they intend to govern when elected.
So how do we choose? There are several criteria.
First, look at their past, their actions, their track record. What is often reflected in a person’s past will provide a good mirror of who this person will be in the future. “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they?”(Matthew 7:15-16).
Second, there is no way to disguise integrity. Integrity is the breastplate of one’s character. When a person does what he or she says, then we have the real deal.
If someone fudges on his credentials, and skirts around clear lessons from history, the standard warning is Caveat Emptor. Buyer beware.
This scam is common place, nowadays, even in online shopping. I recently almost bought six toothbrushes for P2,000! The packaging misled me into believing I had ordered something else.
So, too, with candidates, the packaging can be deceiving. “So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit.” (Matthew 7:17-18).
Third, what is their vision? “Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Proverbs 29:18) Sometimes this aspect of leadership is over-advertised. With eloquence, a candidate can win people’s hearts. Yet, eloquence and a glib tongue do not substitute for vision.
Vision is much deeper. It delves into the heart and soul of the nation. Vision captures the aspirations of a people. Vision is God-inspired, and not simply conjured in the mind. It is borne of sincerity, and a genuine love for the people.
By these criteria, we can test, then choose. Come, let us choose our anointed leader well together. “Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward.” (1 Samuel 16:13) .
“So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit.” (Matthew 7:17)
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