Paul Bonnifield – Connected, Vincent Figliola

Inspired by Connected by Vincent Figliola

Paul Bonnifield

Seeking Justice

The lady is always there, but it’s impossible to see her with the naked eye. You feel her presence somewhere in the inner workings of the soul. We know what she looks like, or at least think we know. Her task is probably the most difficult and most necessary in all civilization. She sits on a throne with her arm outstretched holding balance scales. Balancing the scales of justice, she is measuring all the elements of knowledge, of good and evil, of right and wrong.

They stood before Lady Justice’s watchful eyes. His hands bound behind his back, father and daughter knowing he would soon be hauled to prison and remain for years – perhaps executed. The lady with the scales must consider his nefarious deeds. How many lives were taken? How much suffering was caused? Big time drug running, drug sales – clearly a dangerous and evil occupation. Perhaps he is the head of a ruthless cartel that buys and sells people, governments, and human dignity. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, have died at his command.

Yet, it is written, “Know ye the truth and the truth will set you free.” What is it Lady Justice must know before she passes judgement? The scale has two trays. The daughter stands clinging to her father’s shirt, pressing her head against his chest. He lowers his head above her. Clearly, their love is forever. Connected, they cannot let go of each other. Love must have a measure in seeking justice.

It is written, “Judge ye not; Lest ye be judged by your own standard.” What standard shall we use. In the harsh world where the villain lived, it was impossible to feed and provide for the family. Drug dealing was not only necessary, it was the only way. Many have faced the dilemma to either deal in drugs or starve. They cannot seek a better life up north. North has built a wall, telling the poor and desperate people they are not welcome. Lady Justice must inquire, Who is the criminal that committed the crimes?

So long ago, the poet John Donne wrote, “Ask not for whom the bells toll. They toll for Thee; For no man is an island unto himself.” He will go to prison, perhaps the gallows. She will cry her heart out and suffer long. But, what about the other criminals who throw stones while hiding their involvement. u