THROUGH UNTRUE In a world driven by relentless competition, those who achieve unparalleled success in a particular field are often hailed as the G.O.A.T. (“Greatest of All Time”). In sports, for example, the G.O.A.T. is the athlete with the most records or championships. However, these...
THROUGH UNTRUE In 1929, Belgian surrealist artist Rene Magritte painted a picture of a pipe with the caption, “This is not a pipe.” Many viewers were puzzled, but Magritte explained that he added that caption to warn viewers of the danger of equating a picture with the reality it...
THROUGH UNTRUE Today, Sept. 8, marks the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, perhaps the first human being who proved that a woman can be the best man for the job. The Bible tells us that God made man after His image (Genesis 1:27). For ages, the word “man” in that passage was...
THROUGH UNTRUE In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus asks His disciples, “Will you also go away?” (John 6:66). This question resonates with us as well. Will we continue to believe in God even when He confounds our expectations? Or will we seek other gods that promise immediate solutions to our...
THROUGH UNTRUE The word "cult" is often associated with extreme religious sects, but the psychological dynamics that drive these groups can also be found in various sectors and institutions in our society. The most obvious characteristics of a cult include an almost total conformity to the group's...
THROUGH UNTRUE We are creatures of desire. While many set their hearts on earthly wealth, glory, and fame, others yearn for spiritual experiences that endure beyond time. Desire can influence the way we think, behave, and live. But when desire deteriorates into obsession, it can lead us astray,...
THROUGH UNTRUE Shame is a normal human emotion. It reminds us that we have inherent limitations, our capacities have boundaries, and our personalities have rough edges. Shame, therefore, opens the possibility for change, learning, self-acceptance, and self-improvement. It is unfortunate that...
PEACE-MAKER In October 2010, we travelled to San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, following our trip to Buenos Aires two years earlier, where we explored ways and means of cooperation between our Asia-wide organization, ICAPP, the International Conference of Asian Political Parties, and...
THROUGH UNTRUE We live in a world that idolizes the person with an overcrowded schedule, who works long hours and juggles multiple jobs. In contrast, one who is not working or busy is often viewed as lazy, sick, or a bum. However, being perpetually busy and preoccupied with work can have...
THROUGH UNTRUE As election time approaches, political rivals get busy throwing mud at each other. They dig through each other’s pasts, hoping to uncover hidden dirt. Since they do not remember everything they’ve said or done, there will always be something their opponents can twist to damage...
THROUGH UNTRUE Love is nourished by a sense of mystery and wonder. When two people fall in love, they are eager to discover new facets of each other’s personalities. They want to learn more about their life stories, abilities, and aspirations so they can offer support and encouragement. As their...
THROUGH UNTRUE Kind words and compassionate actions invariably touch us. “Touch” is a term derived from the Latin “to ccare,” meaning “to come in contact with.” It expresses human connection and our capacity to be deeply affected by the words and deeds of others. When we say, “I am...