EYES SEE

By MIRIAM CORONEL FERRER

Perhaps the cast of lead actors in our current pasyon as a nation might even be reflecting on two important themes of Lent: repentance and forgiveness. However, at this point, no one is asking for forgiveness, and no one is about to forgive without the repentance. 

Many people looked forward to the third week of March for a much needed break from their daily grind. The Christian world is observing Lent; the Muslims, the birthday of Prophet Mohammed. March 20 was also a holiday in Japan. It was the day of the vernal equinox, when the sun is positioned directly under the equator. In Japan, it is celebrated as a day that encourages admiration of nature and love of all living things.

That was the day I left Tokyo to head home, to find the express trains to Narita and the airport bursting with people going on a vacation. While most Filipinos will be traveling to home towns or resorts with family members, most of the Japanese I saw were traveling with friends: senior men with golfing buddies, senior women with their amigas, and young people with friends of the same sex. Different strokes for different folks, but the mood all spelled vacation.

Lent not only impels us to take a break from work (and here I am punching these computer keys after a five-hour flight). It also compels all to take a breather from politics. For the moment we will have a respite from unity walks, on the one hand, and interfaith rallies, on the other. These two images have in the last month competed fiercely for our affection. Gloria flanked by her generals, local politicians, and Cabinet officials all walking tall in a gloating show of cohesion. Prayer-filled rallies in Makati, EDSA, Baclaran, and various campuses, all begging for the truth that continues to elude.

Perhaps the cast of lead actors in our current pasyon as a nation might even be reflecting on two important themes of Lent: repentance and forgiveness. However, at this point, no one is asking for forgiveness, and no one is about to forgive without the repentance.

The Easter of our politics is far from sight.

(E-mail: mcf178@yahoo.com)