What a mess

While trying to get a better understanding of what, why and how the Mamasapano Massacre happened through the published articles, statements and live testimonies of those involved, advisers, “not within the loop” and investigators; the underlying denominator is we find ourselves in a mess despite the heroic sacrifice of our policemen.  We find ourselves in this mess with all the posturing, finger-pointing, denial of responsibility, defiance of authority, distrust, acts of brutality and indecisiveness.

Hopefully, all these acts and talk in connection with the debacle will come to a cohesive narration of facts and the needed decisions made in the coming days.  The focus needs to be learning the lessons, being able to handle the truth, and act toward becoming better as a people, as public servants, as law enforcers, and peace-seeking organizations. This is what we can look forward to. Meanwhile we have to endure all the news, stories, accusations, defences and even a future movie arising from the affair.

It should be noted that a perspective emerging is the seeking of justice. Some are making this a requirement for peace.  The question of what comes first, justice or mercy? Your opinion is as good as mine. An interesting point to be noted is justice is receiving what one deserves while mercy is receiving what one does not deserve.  The difference in opinions or positions on this matter does contribute to the difficulty in making a choice.  A church leader has pointed out that in this case, peace shall be achieved after justice is given.  So when is being merciful appropriate?  What a mess.

Let us end with an anecdote to encourage us to sort out this mess we are in with the following anecdote.   A professional photographer was engaged to take the pictures of a very successful company’s executives.  The photo shoot went on smoothly until one particular executive posed a challenge with all the personal requirements of getting the perfect picture of his image and these required more shots and time.  Make-up retouched, change of clothes, adjustment to the lights, hair trimmed, amendment to the pose, standing, seating, behind the desk, by the window. The photographer had a good exercise of patience. Finally the executive felt that his makeup, suit, pose standing in front of his desk was perfect and directed, “Okay photographer get the picture done and do me justice.”  The photographer replied, “Sir, what you need is mercy”.*