This refers to the provocative photo of Lady Gaga and company in skimpy attires, which was published in the Inquirer last May 21, with the caption “Lots of skin but not a sin.” Through lewd and suggestive images, tempting the young and old alike to commit sin is a grievous offense too. We are taught that “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it were better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” (Mt. 18:6) Harsh words, indeed, but they are reminders for us to exercise temperance and prudence in addressing the current issue of propriety.
We are a predominantly Christian nation yet our reaction to the Lady Gaga thing sadly pales in comparison to the reported immediate action of South Korea and Indonesia, both of which banned her concert from their countries. The leaders of those countries have the wisdom to know and act on what is good and true. One need not be a hardliner to know this; he needs only fortitude and humility to discern and act responsibly.
Our inaction shows the cafeteria Catholicism of some who choose to obey only the Commandments that are convenient to follow. Why pay Lady Gaga for her to insult your religion? It reportedly cost the country some $1.7 million to stage her concert (Inquirer, 5/23/12). Talk about being a poor nation.
How can one find “nothing wrong or offensive,” and how can one “illuminate greater light” to others with Lady Gaga’s song lyrics using Judas who did not repent and did not ask for forgiveness (unlike what St. Peter did) and who committed his grievous falling due to pride?
Lady Gaga’s concerts were shown on May 21-22, 2012, at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds in Pasay City. It was sad to note that SM management, which advocates the showing of family-oriented, wholesome films, consented to present this harmful concert on its grounds. Did it enlighten the more than 40,000 or so Filipinos who watched it, many of whom are young and someday will become leaders of our country? It certainly did not contribute to nation-building.
We just celebrated Christ’s ascension, which came after He told His apostles: “Go into the whole world and preach the gospel to every creature.” The call is also meant for us, asking us to use our talents and spread through media what is good and true.
May is also the merry month of the Blessed Virgin Mary who is our model of purity and chastity. Will we be aided to live such virtues when we see “lots of skin” and suggestive body gyrations, and when we listen to profane, irreverent, blasphemous lyrics from Lady Gaga’s songs? It’s time to live our beliefs and act in sync with our faith, if we are to truly progress as a nation.
—CHING D. AUNARIO,
chingauna@yahoo.com