The other side of humanity

To the Editor:

As Christmas approaches, in the midst of so much human-caused chaos, it is nice to find something that shows the rest of the story.

A recent new program on NPBN called “On Being” tells of a Palestinian and an Israeli who suffered the death of a family member at the hands of “the enemy.” In an incredibly sensitive and moving interview, the program traces the paths taken by these people from shock and anger at their loss to respect for each other and for peace.

The host of the program, Krista Tibbett, says, “These terrible losses led them to each other and to a universe of others on both sides of the border. It’s a network called the Parents Circle – Bereaved Families Forum. This citizen-led movement breaks the narrative of Israeli-Palestinian violence.”

How many times have we heard these words spoken, “Oh, those Arabs have no feelings. They have a culture of violence.” Tell that to these grieving Palestinians who are willing to work for peace alongside Israelis.

The program is called “No More Taking Sides.” Contact Americanpublicmedia.org. Ask for a podcast or a transcript. It is an amazingly moving story that gives the lie to the inevitability of “an eye for an eye.” It is an eye, mind and heart opener.

We are all much more human than otherwise. In our daily life, let us celebrate the humane side of humanity.

Hubert Kauffman

Oxford