06/08/2025
Palinism Response: A Good Future Needs Some Bad Memories (Expanded)
In the heart of Palinism, we uphold the truth that progress is born from pain, and that bad memories are not burdens—they are blueprints for building a better tomorrow. Just as a nation without memory is like a tree without roots, a future without reflection on the past becomes directionless and easily misled.
1. The Power of Remembering
Bad memories—of injustice, corruption, suffering, or betrayal—are uncomfortable, yet they are necessary. In Palinism, we believe that to forget is to repeat. When we remember where we failed as a nation, as communities, or even as individuals, we equip ourselves with the tools to build a future based on wisdom, caution, and strength.
Many of the world's greatest leaders and revolutions were born out of painful pasts. Likewise, Papua New Guinea must not forget the times of exploitation, the neglect of rural communities, the ignorance of traditional systems, the misuse of power, and the widening gap between the rich and poor. These memories must be transformed into motivation, not misery.
2. Scars as Symbols of Strength
In Palinism, a scar is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of survival. It shows we were wounded, but we did not die. It shows we were broken, but we did not stay down. The future will respect those who carry scars with dignity and use them as a reminder to protect the next generation from repeating the same mistakes.
We must never shame our bad memories. They shape our morality, fuel our resilience, and inspire our vision for national transformation.
3. Forgiveness, Not Forgetfulness
Palinism does not promote bitterness. We do not dwell on bad memories to harbor hate—but to gain understanding, forgiveness, and strength. A better future is not created by pretending the past didn’t happen. It is created by confronting it, learning from it, forgiving it, and rising above it.
Let us not erase history, but write a better chapter because of it.
4. Practical Policy Reflection in Palinism
In education, we will include history that tells the full truth—not just the victories, but also the struggles.
In leadership training, we will use past policy failures as learning models.
In governance, we will ensure transparency by reflecting on past corruption and vowing through policy to eliminate its roots.
In national healing, we will support reconciliation between tribes, communities, and institutions where past wounds remain unhealed.
5. Biblical Foundation
> "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!"
– Isaiah 43:18–19
This verse does not mean to ignore the past, but not to dwell in it. Instead, use the past to recognize the new thing that is rising. Palinism is that “new thing.” It is built on the lessons of the past, shaped by the wisdom of our ancestors, and directed toward the prosperity of our future.
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Palinist Motto
“We do not hide our scars; we wear them as badges of purpose. Our pain becomes our power. Our bad memories fuel our good future.”
Palinism calls every citizen to own the pain, learn from the past, and rise for the future.
