INNOCENTS TO THE SLAUGHTER

They come out in droves – children, some old enough and excited enough to walk, some being carried in the arms of loving but naïve parents. Like hordes of locusts they descend upon us for treats and to show off their costumes. Such fun, such glamour, such festivities for the Prince of Darkness.

As a believer, I know that the entire world has been mesmerized by the Devourer of Souls. But many of those who have had their eyes opened to spiritual things seem to either be enthusiastic supporters of the day, or reluctant participants in its reverie.

I, who staggered through my parenting years in a glass house, shouldn't throw stones. I vacillated between the above mentioned options most of the time. I remember the smuggness of the latter and the enjoyment of the former. But in either case, my conscience never experienced any angst. In fact, I used to suffer the "fools" that think like I do now. All of them seemed like superstitious bigots.

Now, amidst the "tomfoolery," all I can see is a celebration of a predator's world – the one who keeps so many blinded to the misery he inflicts and to the Judgment he ridicules. And my heart wants to cry!