Submitted by Maria Y Tan, Nov 13, 2007 23:59

Coming from a moslem country ( I am a refugee), I do not bear hostile feelings where there is no need. The gift of a sword is a recognition of authority, as far as I remember in Islamic practice. A sword (keris) is passed from the head of the clan to the next head of the clan/generation and very often is loaded with mystic meaning. If mishandled it can be a curse, if well-received with a clean heart, it is authority.

Experts in Islamic and Middle Eastern culture can proof me wrong. My knowledge is just from observing the practice and culture of the people of Java in Indonesia.

I suggest that we do not try to see everything wrong in what could be meant as good. A clean heart and clean hands are acceptable in any culture in any religion. Let's uphold our "nobleness of mind and heart" that it may inspire those who do not have it.

After all, it is the Almighty Creator that judges all. Praise be the Lord for His Son by whose grace and mercy, we can be absolved of our sins, if we truly repent. Have mercy on those that do not know this grace. For them it is the difficult road of cleansing by prayer, fasting and good works.

Love in Christ.

P.S. I am Roman Catholic, staunch.

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