by Kris Clutter, Legal Assistant/Receptionist, People’s Law Office (Chicago, Illinois)
While I was reading this passage, Lady Gaga’s song, “Bad Romance” happened to come on my Pandora radio. Naturally, the first question that came to mind was, “What does a bad romance look like in the eyes of God?” At first glance this song seems totally irrelevant to the passage, but if you were one of the half billion people to view this music video on YouTube, you would understand that this song and video is about human and sex trafficking. The pinnacle moment of the video is when Lady Gaga, donning Swarovski Crystal underwear and a choker, is sold off to the highest bidder.
Though it seemed a little over the top, the video shows how humans can manipulate and exploit others, so that we see others not as sisters and brothers but as common chattel and units of labor. In some way or another we all give into exploitation. As peacemakers, we must be aware of the ways we exploit one another to truly see that we are all connected beings requiring love and respect. This creates a beautiful romance of peace and love with you, God, and one another.
PRAYER
O Lord, please give us the wisdom to understand and identify our selfish interests in capital gains through the exploitation of others. During this season of excess and consumerism, let us honor one another and ourselves through love and respect. Amen.