Because we all live under the same sun
We all walk under the same moon
Then why, why can’t we live as one.
-Scorpions
The Mercury Years Album

Historically, the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century introduced Christianity to the Philippines, leading to the marginalization of Muslim communities, known as Moros, in the southern regions. This division was further exacerbated by land policies and governance structures during both Spanish and American colonial periods, which often displaced Muslim populations. The Moros or Muslim are already entrenched in Mindanao even before the Christians in the Spaniards.

Centuries prior the Holy Land of Israel were bustling with wars in the Crusade having prominent heroes Richard the Lion Hearted and Prince Balian (Valiant) and Saladin for Christian Crusaders and Muslim Warriors.

In the Philippines and in modern times, the conflict has been marked by struggles for autonomy and self-determination by Muslim groups, such as the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). These groups have sought greater control over their ancestral lands and resources, leading to clashes with the predominantly Christian-led government.

Now the Bangsa Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao and the Israel Jew are the status quo of the Israel and Mindanao flash points. A reign of peace came and perhaps , a peaceful co-existence is in place, this in spite the packets of wars in the Philippines and the on-going Hamas, Hezbollah war against Israel.

But looking closely, we can v catch a common ground in the two faiths;
At their core, both Islam and Christianity are rooted in the worship of one God—an omniscient, omnipotent Creator who commands justice, love, and mercy. The essence of monotheism—unwavering faith in one divine source—serves as a bridge between these two traditions. The Qur’an and the Bible, sacred texts of Islam and Christianity respectively, illuminate this shared foundation, calling followers to live lives marked by integrity, compassion, and reverence.

Furthermore, both faiths uphold the principles of charity and service to humanity. Islamic teachings emphasize Zakat (almsgiving), a pillar of the faith that fosters social responsibility and equality. Similarly, Christian doctrine champions acts of kindness and altruism, exemplified through the teachings of Jesus Christ about loving one’s neighbor. In the heart of both religions lies a commitment to uplifting the oppressed and mending the fractures of society.

The figure of Abraham serves as a luminous symbol of unity, revered by both Islam and Christianity as the patriarch of faith. Known as Ibrahim in Islam, Abraham embodies the virtues of obedience, courage, and unwavering devotion to God. His narrative, chronicled in both the Qur’an and the Bible, is a poignant reminder that the roots of spiritual tradition are intertwined—a testament to the shared ancestry of believers.

Lastly, as Ramadan ends and a new and refreshed era after the fasting and sacrifice comes for our brother Muslims , we pray that the intertwined realities are cemented in unity. No need to condemn and fight each other, as Scorpion says, we are live under the same Sun, we are looking at the same Moon, then why, why can’t we live as one!

Unthinking loyal fans turned fanatics are begging the International Criminal Court (ICC) to free their idol from his hotel-like accommodation and let them bring him home. Their main argument is that their idol is too old to stay in an airconditioned cell with amenities and ready medical response in case of emergency. That reason is unreasonable because their idol, in his old age, had committed crimes against humanity chiefly by ordering the police and military to kill those who had been tagged as users and pushers of illegal drugs. The police and military under his command when he was president were too willing to do his orders that led to the killing of innocent people, over six thousands by police estimation but over twenty thousands according to human rights groups.

The mayhem broke like wildfire, spreading in communities whose officials were required under duress or upon promise of rewards to those who follow what he says. Sidewalks and alleys were splattered with dead bodies of those who were in the narco-list as well as those who were caught in the line of fire for being at the wrong place at the wrong time. With strong backing from no less than the former and now detained president foe doing what are clearly wrong and unlawful orders, the police would get monetary reward which was bared only very lately during the investigation in aid of legislation conducted by the senate and the house of representatives.

The bloody drug war emanated from the city of Davao where the former and now detained president was mayor for so long. It was there where he implemented a campaign against illegal drugs through trusted law enforcers who were loyal to him. The law enforcers were too willing to carry-out a clandestine operation against users and pushers of illegal drugs who were causing fear among peace and law-abiding citizens. Reports of crimes perpetrated by drug addicts were well highlighted by a cooperative media with the aim of informing the people about the unsafe situation of their neighborhood as drug addicts are freely roaming the city streets. The situation conditioned the public mind that there is a need to confront the drug problem with an iron hand.

When the then city mayor of Davao launched an anti-drug campaign to clean the city streets of drug of drug addicts, users, pushers and businessmen involved in the illegal drug trade, the city was reportedly peaceful as people lived in shivers that they might be among the targets of the anti-illegal drugs of the police units in the city. Indeed, the peace and order situation reportedly improved. It was a source of pride that the then mayor who is became a former and now detained president could brag, claiming that his city is a model in quelling the drug menace.

As the ICC had taken custody of the former and now detained president, his fans turned fanatics of the former and now detained president who had the gall to call God stupid appears to be in high trance that people think he is in karma and is the one who is daft.
comments to alellema@yahoo.com

THIS somehow is the lesson we can draw from that gospel episode about the woman caught in adultery and dragged to Christ to see if she should be stoned to death according to some Mosaic law. (cfr. Jn 8,1-11)

As the story unfolds, Christ simply kept quiet, knowing that those who dragged the woman to him was simply trying to test him. After a while, he stood up and told them that he who had no sin could cast the first stone.

We know what happened after that. No one dared to do so. Instead, the accusers started to leave one by one, until it was only the woman left with Christ. That was when Christ asked the woman if anyone stoned her. When she answered, “No one,” Christ simply dismissed her with the advice to sin no more.

This story is full of meaning that reflects how deep and so entrenched and ingrained in our human condition our weaknesses are. Despite our best efforts, we know that sooner or later we would succumb to them. This reminds us of what St. Paul once lamented about himself:

“In my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Rom 7,22-25).

In our relation with others, let’s see to it that we channel the same attitude of compassion and mercy Christ had and continues to have towards all of us, sinners. We know that when a baby makes a mess, we don’t mind it so much. We are even eager to clean it up. That’s because we love the baby, and we understand that the baby cannot help but make some mess.

When we are dealing with the defects, mistakes and sins of older persons, we should even show greater compassion and mercy, because even if they are supposed to know better, we also know that their weaknesses can overpower them.

Nowadays, with the rise of cases of addiction, obsession and mental and psychological illnesses, we should really be ready to show more compassion and to offer mercy to those involved.

Even more, with those who appear normal in the different aspects of their health and yet can still fall into some mess, and even a graver mess, we should show greater compassion and mercy, since they would need it more than what babies and those older persons with some health issues would need.

Yes, we may apply a little of the Mosaic law, clarifying the issues involved, rendering justice and some punitive action, but in the end, we should apply greater compassion and mercy to those involved. This was the way Christ dealt with sinners. This is also how we should deal with anyone who causes some messes in our life.

We need to be always reminded that we are truly helpless without God. There is no other way but for us to fall into some sin. We just have to understand each other, and strengthen our conviction of what St. Paul once articulated: “Where sin abounded, grace much more abound.” (Rom 5,20)

Of course, we should try our best to avoid sin and making a mess. But we know that we can only go so far. Let’s just be consoled by what a psalm once expressed: “God’s anger is for a moment, but his mercy is forever.” (30,5) And let’s also live this wonderful truth of our faith ourselves.

The entrepreneurial spirit is often associated with launching a business, disrupting industries, and chasing the next big thing. But its essence, the drive to create, innovate, and solve problems, transcends the confines of the business world. It’s a mindset, a way of thinking, and a powerful force that can be applied to every aspect of life.

Embracing the entrepreneurial spirit means taking ownership of your own journey, seeking out opportunities for growth, and approaching challenges with a solution-oriented mindset. It’s about being proactive, resourceful, and constantly striving to improve yourself and the world around you.

The following strategies provide a framework for cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset within the context of daily life.:

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset:

The entrepreneurial spirit thrives on continuous learning and improvement. Challenge your assumptions, seek out new knowledge, and be open to feedback. Use failures as navigational markers on your path to success. This mindset will help you grow personally and professionally, regardless of your chosen path.

2. Identify and Solve Problems:

Entrepreneurs are problem solvers at heart. Look for opportunities to improve your environment, your community, or your own life. Ask yourself: “What can I do to make this better?” Uncover your purpose through the growth that comes from tackling small challenges.

3. Take Initiative and Be Proactive:

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. The future is yours to shape. Be proactive, take charge, and create the life you’ve always dreamed of. If you see a need, don’t be afraid to step up and fill it. This proactive approach will lead to greater fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment.

4. Develop Resourcefulness and Creativity:

Entrepreneurs are masters of resourcefulness. They find ways to achieve their goals with limited resources, often getting creative and thinking outside the box. Cultivate this resourceful mindset in your daily life. Look for innovative solutions to problems and find ways to maximize your resources.

5. Embrace Collaboration and Networking:

The entrepreneurial spirit thrives on collaboration and networking. Connect with others who share your interests, learn from their experiences, and build a supportive network. Collaboration can lead to new ideas, solutions, and opportunities for growth.

6. Embrace Risk and Experimentation:

Entrepreneurs are comfortable with risk. They understand that failure is part of the process and are willing to experiment and try new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, take calculated risks, and learn from your mistakes.

7. Passion and Purpose:

The entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by passion and purpose. Find something you’re passionate about and dedicate yourself to it. Whether it’s a hobby, a cause, or a career, having a sense of purpose will drive you to achieve your goals and make a difference in the world.

8. Embrace the Journey:

Don’t focus on the finish line; enjoy the process of building your business. Celebrate your successes, learn from your failures, and cherish the challenges and opportunities along the way. Embrace the constant evolution and growth that comes with pursuing your passions.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Everyday Life:

Embracing the entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t require starting a business. It’s about applying these principles to every aspect of your life. Whether you’re a student, a parent, an employee, or a community member, you can cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and make a positive impact.

Conclusion:

The entrepreneurial spirit is a powerful force that can transform your life. By embracing its core principles, you can unlock your potential, achieve your goals, and make a difference in the world. It’s a mindset that encourages you to take ownership, be proactive, and constantly strive to improve yourself and the world around you. So, embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and embark on a journey of continuous growth, innovation, and fulfillment.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!