Growing out of fear or the love of self

I was the last batch of the Uni of Singapore gen and was scared out of politics because of the arrests of student activists. My Philosophy tutor was one of those who stoke my thinking and I avoided discussion and slid into apathy so I could finish my Uni education.

But studying Sociology helped. I read the bible before class every day and I could see the many evil and immoral actions of leaders who lead out of fear (of losing power). I saw Mr Chiam ST (science teacher while I was in Cedar Girls) saying in Parliament that it was "immoral" to have COE introduced as transport was a basic need. I respect him and salute his commitment to his core values while he served literally laying down his life for his people.

Yesterday I shared at my office devotion Micah 6:8 and some thoughts concerning our role in bringing justice and mercy.

"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God"

I did not know this is called The Micah Mandate till now. As I shared in the context of our political leaders and some historical injustices like ISA arrests, the ED prompted me to return to "devotion topic". I said I have not deviated. It is very sad but true that many cannot see that role of salt and light is to preserve from decay and shed light to reveal corruption in all levels of leadership and community.

I have more courage since the last election.

In 2006, when LHL laughed at the WP contestants and said "I will make sure they do not get their money back" I was greatly offended at his arrogance and lack of grace. I felt he was behaving like a gangster head. He said at a lunch time rally about "fixing" oppositions - which again confirmed his philosophy about politics. I went for rallies with a WP supporter and voted for WP. I wanted the dare devils to get their money back - and was glad they did. I admire their courage and commitment.

This year I was at Reform Party's and I heard them out. A friend alerted me to the condolence letter and I could not believe what I read. The man has not changed.

At the rally I sat in the front row of the grass lawn and bought a flag when the volunteers came around. Their words helped. "Does not matter the amount, your action is enough". When I was getting blocked, I moved closer and even waved my flag when the cameras were clicking. The next day my friends messaged to say I was in the yahoo news photo - I went "Yahoo yeah!!"

Last night I was at Serangoon Stadium and the last time I was in a crowd this big was Billy Graham's Crusade. I was proud to be among sensible and courageous people. As I walked to the MRT station, I was talking to fellow supporters - 2 men in their 60s. I told them I love seeing older people at rallies. It means they are interested and being there showed they want to see and hear it all - no censor or selective reporting. There were Junior College students and young families with small children in tow.

We are living in exciting times. I have moved miles because people have the courage to live the Micah Mandate!