Another Thanksgiving Day has come and gone, and again as we look back at the adversities we faced, we cannot but be thankful that, personally and for Balita, we have pulled through another year barely scratched, with body and soul still fully intact, and consequently , with the clarity of mind, still defending me and Balita against evils and demons that are trying to bring us down.
In that pervading mood, I came across a stirring comment by our friend journalist Ellen Tordesillas, who wrote recently… “Reporters are used to people not agreeing with journalist reports. We are in a democracy and we recognize each and every one’s right to air his or her views. It’s in that same spirit that those who do not find published reports pleasant should take it. What should matter is the accuracy of the report.”
Then there is this related statement from the media organization, the National Union of Journalist of the Philippines, to which Balita and our associate editors and writers are members, that “journalism is no crime.”
NUJP chairman Ryan D. Rosauro says, “But threatening journalists when their reportage is disagreeable or erroneous is criminal, as is helping spread these threats, especially if any harm should befall the subjects of such opprobrium,” Which brings us to the greatest challenge we have faced so far .
Quite expectedly, as we stand up for our people, we bear the brunt of vindictiveness from these evildoers. We have experienced it all. We were threatened, we were sued. But again we stand by the accuracy of our reports.
In this small community of ours, we all know there are lots of foolishness and petty crimes being committed. Unfortunately, for various reasons, including inherent weaknesses in our community that invite exploitation, those wrongdoers could get away with it.
We know, for example, of many fundraising schemes that end up in personal pockets. We know it is fraud, and like stealing, it is a crime. It doesn’t matter how small or how big, it is still punishable. We should care and stop being in constant denial for the sake of our children who will suffer the stigma and consequences.
This is not only for the journalists but for everybody, threatening is a crime so people should be careful with their spoken and written words.
Sadly for them, we are still standing strong and well, so it means that we are doing something right. Adversities are part of our existence but we confront them with an open mind to build our resilience.
I must admit I sometimes get caught up with self-pity, especially now that my dear husband Ruben Cusipag who was the founder of this newspaper is not around physically to comfort me, but his memory and spirit make me deal with it and allow me to think clearly.
We all have our struggles, some have it worse than others. For us, we are clear with our undertakings. We may not be rich and powerful but as long as our character is impeccable then we all got it made. I have always believed that if you stick to your faith, nothing will ever shake you.
We will continue with our cause, just like what my late husband used to tell me. If you do something good, your reward may not always be on earth but it will definitely be in Heaven.
That when I fight, I always have to remember that I am fighting for the truth and the principle. Never say “I am not going down to your level,” crap because those are the words of surrender.
This past Thanksgiving, there are so many things to be thankful for. For Balita, the most I am grateful for is that it continues to enjoy widespread support and approval from our community.
On a personal level, I am happy to be blessed with good health. Material things become worthless if we are not healthy. I always joke with my close friends, we are at the point of no return and reunions with acquaintances sometimes happen in funeral homes.
For my health, and for all the blessings I am deeply thankful. ****