Citizens in Lebanon are circulating, from time to time, statements issued by officials warning them of the increase in thefts and infringements these days. One of my acquaintances asked me: “Who protects the people, if their state is warning them?” I told him: "This is a reminder that we, too, are responsible". But my full answer is supposed to mention that it is the right of the people that the state answers to them this question. He surprised me by saying: "So, let them legislate for us to take up arms”! I said, “Do you think that the state, by warning us, wants us to substitute for it? Then what do you do with the weapons”? Would you accept to use them in the face of a citizen who is not deterred, anymore, by anything, from stealing his own flesh (you and me)! We need rehabilitation, on so many levels, from our oldest to our youngest”. Our conversation ended with exchanged smiles. May God protect you.
Conversation and Smiles
Christian ethics Lebanon crisis Moral Rehabilitation Orthodox community social responsibility
