LETTER OF THE DAY - Reaching out to our lawmen

THE EDITOR, Sir:

Our nation's overworked, overstressed, but most dedicated peace-keepers are overwhelmed with grief and profound sadness. The nature of the job has taken its toll on their lives and well-being of so many in the security forces that only the grace of God can console them.

In recent times, and particularly during Lent, the tragic loss of lives has shaken their will and devotion as crime fighters. Our sympathy goes out to these men and women in uniform and our prayers are continually said for them, even as we celebrate Easter. May the mercy of the Almighty sustain them.

The New Testament scriptures relay a story about the temptation that Jesus had to face from Satan. He knew that Jesus was hungry, physically weak and most vulnerable. In today's world, not much has changed: there is a 'hunger' within each human being. It is also no secret that others discern our vulnerabilities and take disadvantage of us. This is the moment when the human spirit is weakened and the will to do right is tested.

Multiplicity of needs

Let us be clear that there are numerous other needs that are not just physical, but they are the sociological, psychological and the economic. There is also a spiritual need that is often overlooked. However, there are avenues open to our beloved peacekeepers whereby such needs can be addressed. Many institutions and organisations offer counselling services to which law-enforcement personnel can avail themselves when in need of help. These facilities guarantee confidentiality and privacy. Unfortunately, not much is said or publicised about such services until someone gets hurt.

Recent events should cause us to reflect on the physical hunger, the deprivation, stress, and the exhaustion that police personnel must experience in the line of duty. These are factors that increase the human vulnerability to make irrational decisions, act on impulse, and, ultimately, find themselves violating the very laws they are responsible for enforcing.

To avoid such moments, the prayers that we offer for them will have to be accompanied by our willingness to take time to reach out to our police officers. We, the law-abiding citizens, must endeavour to show them our appreciation. We must play a more active role in encouraging them as we extend our gratitude. Let us remind the officers to care for themselves by getting adequate sleep, eating healthy, exercising regularly and finding spiritual fellowship.

Though Lent has just ended, it is still an ideal time for a fresh start.

I am, etc.,

G. GEORGE WILSON (Rev Dr)

glengeorgewilson@aim.com

Springfield, St Elizabeth