Is anyone else out there feeling as disturbed as I am about this whole Bin Laden thing? Regardless of what he's done and what he represents, I just can't ease the discomfort I feel about state sanctioned killing, our leaders claiming their 'happiness' at another's death and of the patriotic crowds rejoicing in the streets. What does it bring us to fight violence with violence?
I used to work as an aid worker and spent one year not long after the 9/11 attacks in Afghanistan. I feel close to that country and its people even though I only have a minute understanding of its complexities. Most there would hate Bin Laden as much as any of us in other countries of the world, but I can't help feel that his death will only bring more unrest to people there as well as to people in the US or Australia.
I understand why the US took the action it did. For myriad reasons, not the least of which are regarding re-election.
But I just feel sad about the whole thing. Sad that this has to be the response. Sad because of the thousands of people killed, not just in the US but in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq and countless other countries. Sad that there is such hate in the world and that so many do not seem to grasp the concept that hate only breeds hate.
And so I just ponder out loud and hug my baby a little closer.
** I don't know if anyone actually reads this blog. Up until now, I have just posted the odd little vignet about cooking or camping or cute baby photos. I'm not sure I will continue it or continue along this path. It all just seems a bit too light and fluffy when what I am really thinking about is this world and its politics and its injustices. Anyway, if you do read it, feel free to let me know your thoughts. Maybe I will move in a different direction and write about what I really think. Try and add something of value. Hmm.
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