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Whether we see it in government, industry or the church; the abuse of power is the ultimate sin against our humanity. Leaders of all stripes need to be aware that those they lead have a basic human right, albeit, "God-given" to ask questions, call out injustice and request a fair review of their grievance.
Those who would lead and forget this basic tenet will feel the results of their mistake at some point. Recent examples come to mind but are well-documented in the free press, which is also under attack by some of these same abusive leaders. The most recent case in California includes both the ultimate power, a local sheriff and the essential protection against such abuse, a brave and resourceful news reporter.
Despite the fact that the California sheriff in question tried to deny that he had ordered an investigation of the reporter, the facts recorded on video illustrate his abuse of power clearly. All those in positions of power need to ask themselves if they are serving their office or protecting themselves.
Voters, employees, and church members need to question injustice regardless of the cost. Organizations need to take allegations seriously and explore the root causes. News reporters do that for the rest of us in the public domain but each of us is required to follow our conscience in calling out hypocrisy and lies when we see it.
Unfortunately, the very essence of power and its abuse thereof; means that sometimes the whistle-blowers will suffer consequences. While unjustified, the very nature of being a whistle-blower makes that outcome very likely. I, for one, am grateful for the whistle-blowers among us. They may not win the day initially but over time I truly believe the "long arc of justice" will prevail.
God bless you one and all.
Teresa R. Porter
Marietta