Seeking Justice and Meaning: Lessons from the Psalmists and Sec. Toots Ople

The death of a good public servant, Sec. Toots Ople, is a great loss to the country, especially to the OFWs. Susan, a veteran advocate for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), is the secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). She is known to be a hard worker. “Secretary Toots is a special person and with a deep compassion, really, for the people that she had to care for, namely, the migrant workers…. It’s a big loss. Ang galing-galing ni Secretary Toots,” said President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. “She very much followed in the tradition of Ka Blas Ople, of excellence, of compassion…. It is a great loss for all of us. I called her my friend, it is a great loss to the Philippines, the service that we know she could still have rendered if she had lived," I read online, "Sana ang mga kurap na politiko na lang." This voice of lamentation, confusion, and frustration reminds me of the psalmists.

The psalmists grappled with the apparent injustices and disparities that exist in the world, despite their belief in God's goodness and justice. They questioned why righteous individuals suffered and died while wicked individuals appeared to thrive, living a life of prosperity and abundance. So, they pleaded for God to intervene and rectify these apparent imbalances. More importantly, they were seeking understanding from God, hoping to reconcile their faith with the realities they saw.

The death of other people reminds us of our own death. It is a poignant reminder that life is a transient gift. Thus, we are invited to confront our fears, reassess our priorities, and live with a renewed sense of purpose.

As I sit here, I'm reminded of the profound truth that life is both beautiful and fleeting. It's easy to get caught up in our daily routines, ambitions, and distractions, but every now and then, it's crucial to pause and reflect.

While it might seem somber, this realization has a unique way of infusing life with a newfound appreciation. Each sunrise, each laughter-filled conversation, and even the moments of quiet solitude become more vibrant when we consider their impermanence.

Let's take a moment today to express our gratitude to the people who fill our lives with joy and meaning. Reach out to that friend you've been meaning to catch up with. Spend quality time with your loved ones. Embrace the passions that set your heart ablaze.

I recalled a Benedictine priest who greeted us with, "Oh, you’re still alive!" Well, how do you respond? "Haha, I'm glad to be! Always a pleasure to see you too."