BY: DONALD SEVILLA
” DISCERNERE ET ELEGERE “
In this modern age of social media and AI
not everything we read stands for the truth. Propaganda and disinformation make sifting the news much harder. We must process and discern information we receive with thorough research and fact-checking.
Now that elections are just around the corner, we are bombarded with a lot of fake news and misinformation. Narratives are slanted, distorted to favor specific interests in a bid to sway public opinion.
In the dirty game of politics, perception is key and public opinion strongly matters. We are often deceived into believing things which are far from true.
Yet we fall for the same nasty tactics over and over again. Why? Are we simply gullible to believe our own lies or are we too tired of fighting a system we feel hopeless to change?
While we regularly hear clamors for change and profess our noble intentions, hopelessness drives us to frustration that in turn leads to resignation.
Apathy has weakened our spirit and determination to bring about positive change. This has allowed the entry of “less desirable” personalities to lead us.
Resigned to our fate, we open the gates to undeserving individuals who take centerstage in our politics. Qualified and competent people are elbowed out by over-eager, power-hungry competition who resort to just about anything to win in an election.
This is our sad and bitter reality. That unless we level up we are doomed and helpless. We cannot elect competent leaders because we ourselves are not up to the task.
We get what we deserve as we simply do not rise to the challenge. Yet we must not lose all hope. We must summon every last ounce of strength in us and muster the courage to confront our demons.
Clean, honest and fair elections begin with us. We must break free from our bondages and sacrifice momentary personal gains for long term greater good..
While taking a hard look at ourselves in the mirror, let us ponder the future we want. Looking at our children we must be careful with our choices. Let us see beyond ourselves and let our love for life, liberty and peace guide us!