Dilemmas, whatsoever…

OUR two helpers in the house were busy preparing everything that is needed to be cleaned and organized before the day starts and this morning's news program just highlighted a discussion about the recently passed Republic Act 10361 or what is commonly known as “Kasambahay Law.”

As the discussions further detailed the benefits of house helpers in the country deserve, the atmosphere in our house became awkward and more eerie the longer it was broadcast over the television. You can hardly look at the helpers and ask to do something for a while, not even making an opinion about it.

If only I am as billionaire as the richest person in the “universe,” I’d really love to comply with the law with enthusiasm. I believe in fair labor practices. However, there are circumstances that also need consideration on the part of employers, especially those coming from lower middle classes such as I who needs to take various jobs just to pay all the dues.

I personally appreciate the works of helpers especially in aiding chores when your life seems to be departed from the real world because of your heavy loads. But the problem is the fact that there were those who have limited income who still require the help of house helpers, and lower middle class people can support my claims especially when both spouses are working and someone has to look over at the house and their children as well.

The law is good, but sometimes it’s sad. I am sad because I wanted to be a “law-abiding citizen,” at least for once, but it’s just difficult to achieve unless you will deduct it from the helper’s net salary just to comply.

***

On the matter of Reproductive Health advocate/activist Carlos Celdran’s “guilty” verdict because in 2010 he flashed a “Damaso” sign inside a cathedral while the mass was still going, I really had mixed feelings, “religious” and “democratic” feelings.

Maybe fueled out of intense emotions towards how the Catholic Church sees the RH Law that time, he wanted to deliver the message directly to the Church itself, more specifically in front of a priest and parishioners who were then trying to give their devotions.

Sure, Celdran has the liberty to express whatever he desires but he could have done that at least in front of the Cathedral and not inside it while the mass was still going. Just imagine doing the same thing displaying a sign “Terrorists” inside a Mosque and the congregation were fervently praying, or inside the Synagogue where the Jews worship and flash them with “Christ Killer” sign.

And you’d think those who are inside will be delighted to see such act? Those who were innocent and simply want to extend their spiritual practice inside these houses of prayers and worships?

True enough, freedom of expression is a right, but it’s not absolute, it also needs to respect other considerations, it needs responsibility, a delicadeza, on when and where to express your views and thoughts. Celdran seems to go too much, a classic example of an abused freedom of expression.

As for the other side towards the Church that sued Celdran, I still remember the reason why they pursue in filing that case was because to give the well-celebrated Manila tour guide a “lesson.” The Church could have let Celdran confess (if he’s a Catholic) and forgive (it’s a Universal Godly Order). After all, the reason why he did it was because of the Church’s impeccable meddling with the affairs of the government.

The Church should be mature enough in understanding that everyone has a choice and the right to do what is best for them especially on their bodies, or at least, didn’t God gave us the “gift to choose?” That is why we are “rewarded” when we follow His commandments, and “punished” if we do what is forbidden?

Suing and charging Celdran seems not right, even if it violates “religious feelings.” He could be sanctioned or reprimanded but not to the extent of him making look like a “criminal” just because he thought the Church should stop meddling in government affairs.

Nef Luczon is a freelance journalist and a part-time communications faculty and trainer. He is also a film and art enthusiast. Read his blog at Nefoi.blogspot.com and send comments to nefluczon@gmai.com)