SENTINEL WATCH February 16, 2009 Issue

FREEDOM FROM SLAVERY: MENTAL AND PHYSICAL

DAVID F. STEVENS

I DON'T GET TOO surprised by much, even though I'm in a problem-solving business. But a recent New York Times op/ed column jolted me. Nicholas Kristof was addressing sex trafficking of young girls into brothels in Cambodia. Through graphic details of one teen's plight, he made the case that this is slavery. The article ended with the hope that the US Congress and the incoming administration would put pressure on nations where such slavery exists: "There would be powerful symbolism in an African-American president reminding the world that the war on slavery isn't yet over, and helping to lead the 21st century abolitionist movement" ("If This Isn't Slavery, What Is?" January 4, 2009).

It's quite possible the new president and Congress will exert such leadership in the US and elsewhere. But what strikes me most is the call for me—for every individual—to be part of the movement to abolish slavery, wherever and however it appears. As I've prayed for answers, I've asked, "How does such slavery appear in the first place?"

It's clear that there is mental as well as physical enslavement to address. In fact, since thought precedes action, the mental realm is the place to start.