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Monday, March 29, 2004
Flavier: The parable of the comparison
By Sen. Juan Flavier
THE politician was very much despised by the farmers. He was what the villagers referred to as BS or bilib sa sarili. For he had an obnoxious sense of self-importance. Truly improper and repugnant.
This was particularly made apparent in his frequent speeches delivered during every conceivable occasion. Unfortunately, due to his position, protocol demanded his presence in important events. And the politician insisted he spoke his piece much to the annoyance of the farmers.
He loved to compare himself to much-admired Filipino personalities. Often, he would equate himself with Rizal and his intellect. Sometimes, with Bonifacio and his bravery despite a proletarian background. Quezon and Ninoy Aquino were not spared. He of course conveniently paralleled himself with Magsaysay as a man of the people and a public official in action.
Later, he progressed into putting himself among the ranks of world leaders. From John F. Kennedy to Abraham Lincoln. Even Napoleon Bonaparte and Simon Bolivar of whom the villagers knew absolutely nothing.
What really irritated the farmers and other listeners was the gross falsity and impropriety of it all.
In one of the barrio meetings intended to welcome and dialogue with some NGO personnel, this particular politician went overboard and compared himself to Jesus Christ.
"My friends, do you realize that Jesus of Nazareth and I have the same build? He had a beard just like mine. I have his complexion and even his bearing. As a matter of fact, I was also born in December. Jesus had a vision for all mankind. So have I..."
One farmer could no longer contain himself. He yelled from behind the other farmers, "In that case, let's crucify him!"
(March 29, 2004 issue)
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