I just don’t know.
I am still trying to make sense of the attacks in Paris, trying to understand the logic of terrorism and how people are convinced to follow any quasi-religious group that advances its beliefs through such violence. It all defies logic and that is a terrifying thing because how can you fight against, let alone negotiate with, such an illogical entity?
What is lacking that would drive people to such acts? What is missing that drives young people to join these groups in order to give their lives to hurt and kill others? Is it real religious conviction or is it just a matter of them feeling a sense of purpose that they either can’t find or refuse to feel in the world in which they were raised?
I just don’t know. But I do fear that this marks a tipping point, that we are in for a long and even uglier struggle, if you can imagine that, going forward. It may be that we are already in the beginning days of a type of World War III as the Pope has said recently. I hope not but when you are dealing with the illogical there’s no telling where this goes.
But my heart bleeds for the people of France. Part of me wants to jump on a plane to Paris just as a sort of ‘screw you’ to those who wish that country harm, just to let them know that their terror based on a warped and hateful religious vision will not stand up to people who try to live by the motto, Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité.
Liberty. Equality. Fraternity. These are the uniting qualities of humanity, not just of France, and will not be taken away through a campaign based on fear and hatred. These are words that we need now more than in any time in the recent past.
Okay, let’s take deep breath. Today’s Sunday music is a fitting tribute written by the great American songwriter, Cole Porter. Although there are many, many great versions out there, I chose this one from jazz great Etta Jones– not to be confused with Etta James of “At Last” fame. Have a great day and keep the people of France in your thoughts. Here’s I Love Paris.
Redtree Times 