Jun Policarpio to filipinotimes
show details May 2 (3 days ago) Reply


FROM THE BARREL OF MY PEN
By Gonzalo "Jun" Policarpio


VIGILANCE IS THE PRICE OF LIBERTY

So many lives have changed in the name of religion and politics. But there is something in religion and politics that attracts the mentally or spiritually needy.

In any religious gathering, say a revival or a crusade, the depressed and the desperate flock to the altar call to ask God for a change in their lives. You may also see the same kind of people who join a political meeting or rally wanting some change in themselves.

Religious and political leaders sometimes are tempted to exploit those who are vulnerable to do anything at their command. These people become fanatics and therefore dangerous.

Religious and political fanatics such as the Islamic jihadists and suicide bombers have killed thousands and thousands of innocent lives. Such dangerous characters may have their counterparts in any religious and political organization operating even in a democracy.

Our law enforcement agencies should always be on alert to detect any religious and political group exhibiting any tendency to disregard the rule of law and destroy our American spirit of liberty and freedom.

End