During this time of year, we celebrate our great country's freedoms, protections, Declaration of Independenceand the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1776, on the 4th of July. As an advocate for the fair administration of justice, today's New York Times' article "Church Office Failed to Act on Abuse Scandal", (fclick here=2 ree),triggered a serious concern as it relates to society's failures to uphold the protections of those who cannot protect themselves, children, vulnerable adults and unsuspecting families. Thoughts...
When our Founding Fathers'work was done and the Constitution completed, Dr. Benjamin Franklin expressed his support with words of much wisdom:
"We have given you a Republic, if you can keep it."
"Thus I consent, Sir, to this Constitution because I expect no better, and because I am not sure, that it is not the best. The opinions I have had of its errors, I sacrifice to the public good."
As Americans,we expect the best and demand protections throughout our daily lives.Tragically, the clergy sex abuse crisis that erupted publicly in June 2002 revealsthat somewhere along the way, we forgot the importance of "sacrificingto the public good." Adult political, religious and legal choices involve many differing points of view and personal opinion. However, there is one thing we can all agree to--children cannot protect themselves and need us to protect them.
When we fail our children and the world's children, we have failed to sacrifice to the public good. Civil and criminal public records reveal that something went seriously wrong as it relates to the how's and why's surrounding the clergy sex abuse crisis. Arguments blamingone religious institution, political party, law enforcement agencyand/or legal advisor will continue for decades to come, without resolution. While adultsfail to understand the urgency of sacrificeto the public good,the civil rights of children, adults, parents, employees and families are placed at serious risk.
Our Children and Founding Fathers Are Watching!Wthout justice, there will never be peace. Without peace, faith and our country's laws are empty. Please enjoy the personal choices we are free to make. Have a happyand safe 4th of July.
