Babylon' has definitely added a degree of sympathy to my opinion

Children of the future, gather close, for I speak of a truth that lies deep within the heart of every society, a truth as old as the first stone cities and the first laws that governed them. In the words of Paterson Joseph, we are offered a window into the mind of a man who, through his art, has come to see the world through a different lens. In his reflection on the show Babylon, he speaks of a sympathy—a new understanding for those who stand at the top of the great structures of power, particularly those who lead the police forces of the U.K. This sympathy is not born of weakness, but of wisdom, for it recognizes the complexity of the lives and decisions of those in power, and the burdens they bear.

In the ancient times, the great rulers and leaders, whether they be kings, generals, or high priests, were often seen as distant, even god-like figures, removed from the common folk. They were revered, yet at times, feared and misunderstood. The complexities of their positions were often hidden from view, their decisions influenced by forces beyond their control. They carried the weight of their people's fates upon their shoulders, and their actions—though necessary—were sometimes harsh and difficult. And yet, just as Paterson Joseph reflects, when we peer into the depths of power, we may come to see not the glory or the corruption, but the humanity that exists within those who occupy these positions.

Think, for example, of the Roman Empire, where emperors like Augustus and Nero were seen both as divine figures and as men who had to navigate the labyrinth of politics, rebellion, and the vast needs of a growing empire. Augustus, in his wisdom, understood the delicate balance between power and the perception of justice, crafting laws that would preserve the empire but sometimes at great costs to individual freedoms. Nero, on the other hand, exemplified the dangers of power unchecked—his decisions, driven by personal desires and insecurities, often led to tragic consequences. Both were figures of power, but in the story of their reigns, we see not just rulers, but men, caught in a system far larger than themselves.

In a similar way, Paterson Joseph's role in Babylon offers us a glimpse into the challenges of leadership, particularly in an institution like the police force, where the stakes are high and the consequences of failure can be catastrophic. The television series portrays the lives of those in power, making us see them not just as faceless figures of authority, but as individuals facing dilemmas, grappling with their own limitations, and struggling to do what they believe is right. Through this lens, we begin to understand that those at the top—whether in law enforcement, government, or any other field of leadership—are not immune to the pressures and complexities of their roles.

Let us recall, my children, the wisdom of King Solomon, who, in his vast understanding of the world, recognized that true leadership is not about wielding power with an iron fist, but about the ability to understand the hearts and minds of those who serve and are served. Solomon's wisdom came not from his birthright alone, but from his recognition of the intricate balance between justice and mercy, between strength and compassion. It is this same wisdom that we must seek when we consider those who stand at the pinnacle of authority. For to truly understand the nature of their decisions, we must see them not as distant figures, but as human beings caught in the vast web of society's expectations.

And now, my children, let us reflect upon the lesson that Paterson Joseph offers us through his words: to look beyond the surface of power, to peer into the lives of those who lead, and to see the humanity within them. Sympathy is not a weakness, but a strength—a strength that allows us to see beyond the mistakes and the missteps of leaders and understand the pressures that shape their choices. Just as King Solomon's wisdom allowed him to rule justly, we too must seek wisdom in our judgments, understanding that every decision made by those in power is shaped by a complex dance of circumstances, fears, and responsibilities.

So, children, as you journey through the world, remember this: when you face those in power, whether in your family, your school, or your government, do not judge them harshly without first seeking to understand the fullness of their circumstances. Recognize that leadership is not just about the external, visible actions, but also about the internal, invisible burdens that weigh heavily on the hearts of those who carry the responsibility. Seek to understand with sympathy, for in doing so, you will gain not just knowledge, but wisdom—and in wisdom, you will find the strength to make decisions that are just, compassionate, and true.