Many would agree that all or most families and organizations (public and private) have their own black sheep or bad eggs that bring disgrace or shame to the family or organization. This should not come as a surprise since we happen to live in an imperfect world populated by imperfect human beings like you and me.
Still, this near-sighted Ibaloy writer finds it quite unfair and even unjust that some misguided individuals have the propensity to generalize or assume that all members of an organization or family are one and the same and that the “act of one is the act of all” just like in a conspiracy. This is wrong.
For example, if a member of an organization, office, department, corporation, or whatever, is caught engaging in an illegal or corrupt act, these holier-than-thou individuals immediately assume that all members of that entity are also corrupt. Same with members of a family whose respective reputations should not be lumped with the actions of its black sheep or spoiled brat or useless piece of crap.
Again, it would be unfair or unjust to label or describe all members of a group or family as corrupt or disgraceful just because of the shameful actions of one or just a very few of them.
On the brighter side, the good or commendable actions of one or a few may also reflect positively on the entire organization or office. Just by smiling at a customer or client and treating them with respect while serving them usually results in a favorable impression not only of the person giving the service but of the entire organization he or she represents as well.
The reminder, “Bawal magsimangot” (Frowning is not allowed), when serving a customer or client is valuable advice, indeed, and must be heeded. So, smile even if it is only for show. Sometimes being “plastic” helps. Just ask the politicians.
Since we are living in reality, however, most people remember the bad or negative more than the good or positive that happens to them. That’s human nature, I guess. This seems to be more prevalent in our beloved archipelago of delicious coconuts and smiling carabaos where many are infected with “crab mentality” and find it so much easier to criticize than to praise. That is why there are so many “haters” and “bashers” in social media. I could be wrong but that is also why bad news is more appealing and gets more attention than good news.
Look at the headlines of most newspapers and other media outlets and tell me if I’m wrong. Bad news sells. That’s an unfortunate fact. Be this as it may, let me end on a positive note by sincerely (with a smile) greeting everyone with an advance Merry Christmas!
May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ continue to bless and keep us all safe.
May 6, 2024
