APRIL 29 — Choosing to forgive, I believe, is the best demeanor we can demonstrate in the face of humiliation. Forgiveness is the most treasured merit of humankind.
In the case of the protest over the cross, the church in Taman Medan PJ has shown the best it could possibly do, by choosing to forgive.
In the midst of fury and disappointment, thank God we still have something called forgiveness that will appease many a troubled heart. This is something we should take comfort in.
At least, the unhappy episodes have must us learn some lessons and see some truth, that there are still plenty of moderate Muslims in our midst, and that the authorities still support religious freedom, and that people from different religious backgrounds can still embrace one another.
Health minister S Subramaniam feels that taking down the cross should never happen in this country, and this shows that the government is still firm in its objective of respecting various religions.
Soon after the incident took place, we saw Muslims instantly offered their support on the Internet while some Muslim residents gave their Christian friends big hugs, showing that many have grown sick of religious extremism in this country.
Thanks to the instigation by some irresponsible quarters, a small incident could be blown up out of proportion to become a major tempest. However, we can also choose to tackle similar issues in a more composed manner, and it all comes down to the interpretations of those involved.
I sincerely believe, be it the residents who protest against the cross in their estate, or the other residents and government officials who have voiced up in support of the church, they have all taught us some valuable lessons, that our core value in defense of religious freedom is unwavering, and extremist actions are abhorred.
Although I am not a Christian, I would like to share here something spoken by Pastor Paul Packianathan of Taman Medan Community of Praise: We do not hold any grudge. We pray for forgiveness for all. That is why we forgive them.
In multi-religious Malaysia, people embracing different faiths have found a place to live in harmony, whether they are Christians or whether they believe in the cross. Love and harmony are our unchanging attributes while forgiving and understanding have made us strong.
“Choosing to forgive” is something very simple that everyone of us can do as a tribute to this nation. — Sin Chiew Daily
* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail Online.
