To err is human, to forgive, divine

09.NOV.07

Editor: I am amazed at the onslaught on Selmon Walters by those who wished to pronounce on the recent episodes in which he was involved.

There is no question that Selmon committed grave errors by his actions and compounded them by bad judgment in using them as examples of poor delivery of public service.{{more}}

In less than one week’s time after his revelations of these incidents, Selmon, after sober reflection, decided to apologise. He issued three apologizes to those offended by his remarks. He apologized to the Bank, the Police, and the Public Service Union.

This act of contrition and humility stands in sharp contrast to the attitude of Daniel Cummings who stoned a church while the saints were in it worshipping God. Cummings never apologized, but instead boastfully declared that he would do it again. Notwithstanding public outrage at Cummings’ actions, the NDP nominated him as a candidate in the 2005 elections. When the people rejected him at the polls, the NDP nominated him as a Senator and selected him as Chairman of the NDP. Now the NDP which turned a blind eye on Cummings criminal actions are now hypocritically demanding Selmon’s resignation. What gall!

Even the most generous explanation of Selmon’s conduct does not bring him exculpation, but he has apologized, something rarely seen or heard of by a politician.

There are those who are using these incidents to rake up everything negative imaginable about Selmon whether or not he is guilty of the charges. These political malefactors are screaming for the crucifixion of a good man who simply made some mistakes and apologized for them. It does not speak

well for our humanity to have people behave like blood hounds and pit-bulls seeking to bring down a decent young man whom they perceive to be politically wounded.

There are some people who have commented on this issue who seem to wax so self-righteously indignant as if they consider themselves more just or righteous than the Most High. They seek vengeance where the Almighty will gladly forgive.

David, King of Israel, held the highest position in the land. He sinned shabbily by coveting the wife of one of his most loyal soldiers. He committed adultery with her, and he killed her husband. He didn’t deserve to retain his position as King, but he begged for pardon and received it, and is referred to as a man after God’s own heart.

Selmon is but a fallible human being as any of us. He is not perfect. He has made mistakes and has apologized for them. Let those who do not make mistakes continue to rejoice when someone in high position stumbles.

Selmon has given years of service in teaching. He holds a University Degree and is no fool. He has won the South Central Constituency with large margin in the 2001 and 2005 elections. He is the best representative that South Central Windward has had.

He has apologized for his mistakes. To err is human, to forgive divine. Our prayers are with Selmon for continued service to the people of South Central Windward and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Thomas Burke