How are we every Holy Week?

By Jan Vicente B. Pekas

When people see a swastika, we can predict what usually comes into their minds. The Nazis that spread terror across Europe. A party that was associated with genocide, murder and extreme brutality. Not only to its neighbors but to ships, commercial or not in the hostile waters of WW2. It took millions of brave souls to take down the evil regime. And from then on, the swastika symbol would always be known as the symbol of tyranny, brutality and death.
Yet the sigil was not always associated with such horrendous acts. As the symbol was used by many groups of people such as the Hindus, way before the Nazis came into power. And the word “swastika” apparently means “well being” in the ancient language of Sanskrit. A word originally used for positive reinforcement. Associated instead with the word “peace”, a sharp contrast to the acts done by the Nazis.
A symbol also tarnished is the inverted cross. Recent times caused the sigil to be connected to the antichrist. A sign of the devil. Taken by several cults as their own. But even before the horror movies made it popular as a symbol of the devil, it was a sign related to Christianity. Stories tell us of the inverted cross being known as “The cross of St. Peter”. Supposedly, Peter the Apostle requested to be nailed to an inverted cross as he did not think he deserved a death similar to his Lord. An admirable act of humility.
A symbol’s history does not alleviate nor justify the present actions done. Nor does it shield horrendous acts from criticisms or condemnation. Evil is evil, through and through.
Now, Holy week is here again. And before we know it, it would be gone. A week dedicated for remembering Christ but the name does not automatically mean we are practicing exactly that. As some of us, including me, mostly use this time for vacation. Take advantage of the holidays and sleep late. Seemingly glad for the week’s cancellaation of classes and then forgetting its message.
Nothing speaks louder than actions. And nothing could be farther from the act of remembering Christ as ignoring His teachings. Nothing holy about that. But, perhaps being saints for a week may be too much to ask. I know it’s impossible for me.
Though, if we truly call it a holy week, then we must try. Our actions are what keeps the original meaning intended for the holy week to be preserved, protected and passed on to the next generation.
Although, I expect some people to look like the opposite of saints the week after, as if released from chains that kept them from their freedom. But every day is a present to be thankful for. Yet, gratitude cannot be seen when we continue to waste away precious time. Days lost due to lazing about.
To give it our all each day can show our appreciation. We can give meaning through our actions instead of just mere names or words.**