We are all pilgrims on Earth

"We, the spirits, have to ask ourselves how our feelings of solidarity, understanding and tolerance are; what thoughts do we throw into space when the subject reaches us to the soul? Are they from prejudice, this direct son of selfishness and pride?" (Humberto Werdine, author of the article Refugees: strength and hope by a thread, one of the highlights of this edition.)

We need indulgence for the welcome of those who desperately seek comfort, shelter, help and understanding. Despite cultural differences, including religious ones, we must, above all, respect human rights and give humanitarian treatment to refugees.

Never, as today, Muslims have been persecuted, even those who already hold citizenship rights. These and, in particular, the clandestine ones, by the own complexion and origin, have been classified as possible terrorists and the target of lamentable demonstrations of xenophobia.

"At this crossroads, we must remember the words of Jesus that open this article: 'because I was hungry and you gave me to eat; I was thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger and you took me in.' And even in the Old Testament, the Torah, the sacred book of the Jews that Jesus taught and preached, there are several passages about the treatment of strangers. In Genesis 25:9 it is said, 'You shall not oppress the stranger, for you know the stranger's heart, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.' Another important passage is in Job 31:32: 'The stranger did not stay the night away; my doors I would open to the traveler'." (Humberto Werdine, in the article quoted.)

The words of Jesus are of deep simplicity. There is no theory in them, but objective indications pertinent to the practice of good. To welcome the refugee, even though he is an enemy, is an eminently Christian attitude. Of course, one must act with caution, so that the tares and wheat are properly identified and no injustices are committed.

"We spirits, who are aware of these truths, should pray that our politicians and rulers may, while they sleep, be inspired in their dreams by Superior Spirituality to be aware of the great responsibility that is in their hands, so that they can act quickly with charity and compassion to end this humanitarian crisis in a definitive way." (Humberto Werdine, in the article quoted.)

Xenophobia is not just in the circle of those in power. It is at the base of the population and in some cases comes close to hysteria. These people are unaware that many of the former refugees who have obtained citizenship rights and those who try to obtain it are those who, in a not too distant past, have been exploited by the countries to which they now demand an opportunity to live.

Migration always causes fears from those who receive refugees. The state of São Paulo, as Brazilians know, has received, throughout its history, and continues to receive migrants (why do not say refugees?) from poor regions of Northeast Brazil, unable to provide the necessary conditions for their children to stay in where they were born, especially at times when drought makes life unfeasible in such places. But as in many European countries, if they could, these citizens who discriminate would also expel these migrants.

"In conclusion, as politicians work to combat the causes of these wars that cause these refugee crises, we must arm ourselves with faith, love, charity, tolerance and understanding, and help as we can these unhappy brothers who have been forced to flee from their countries at war to save and give a better and more dignified life to their children." (Humberto Werdine, in the article quoted.)

The spirit goes to the needy communities to take instruction. But it will also bring them comfort and facilitate social inclusion.

We speak of the poor communities because it is the closest experience to the Brazilian reality, although we already have here Haitian refugees and other immigrants expelled because of the violence or misery that reigns in their country of origin.

No one overlooks that they suffer from prejudice and discrimination, especially in the southern states. Most Haitians receive the lowest wages and humbler placements, while the desire of those who discriminate is actually to repatriate them, forgetting that we are all pilgrims on Earth and we find ourselves in the same path. ⁽¹⁾ 
 

⁽¹⁾ For those who doubt we are pilgrims on Earth, we suggest that you read or re-read the frequent message of the chapter III, item 14, The Gospel According to Spiritism, by Allan Kardec.